Adrianne’s Journey into the Aviation Industry
Adrianne is an aviation training specialist with over 30 years of experience in the aviation industry. “When I was little, I wanted to fly airplanes”, she shares. It has been a lifelong dream of hers to fly planes and to train the next generation of pilots. She is one of only 4% of female professional pilots in Australia.
In 1993, she founded Tristar Aviation, which is now the oldest single ownership flight training school on Moorabin Airport. She shares that since starting Tristar Aviation, “one of the most rewarding things I find being a pilot is seeing other people become pilots.”
Adrianne has been awarded a myriad of awards, including the coveted Nancy Bird Walton award for the Most Noteworthy Contribution to Aviation by a Woman in Australasia and an Order of Australia Medal in 2016 for Service to the Aviation Industry.
Throughout he career, Adrianne has held many leadership roles in aviation communities and not-for-profit organisations, including the Women in Aviation Australia Chapter, Australia Women Pilots’ Association, The Australian Air League, Moorabin Airport Chamber of Commerce and more.
Women in Aviation: Progress and Opportunities
Initiatives like the Women Pilots Association, Women in Aviation, and International Women’s Day have helped bring awareness and opportunities for women in the aviation industry. “Things like that have definitely expanded the exposure of aviation to women,” Adrianne shares. “The aviation industry has become more inclusive, I think there is more awareness.”
Being a trainer, she has witnessed how the dynamics between men and women have evolved. “Men and women work better together than they may have in the past,” she notes, emphasising the importance of teamwork.
A key trait that Adrianne has identified in female students is their eagerness to learn and openness to learn from their mistakes. “I see that, as an instructor with female students, women are more willing and open about their mistakes. And if you can admit your mistakes, you can grow from it.” The ability to learn and adapt is important in aviation as it leads to continuous improvement.

Teaching the Next Generation of Pilots
For Adrianne, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a pilot and instructor is seeing others succeed. “One of the most rewarding things I find being a pilot is seeing other people become pilots,” she shares. There is a sense of accomplishment in knowing that she is helping aspiring pilots achieve their dreams.
“When you hop in an airplane and you hear the pilot at the front make the announcement and you know that you trained that pilot - that’s pretty awesome because they’re pursuing the career they want in an industry you love.”
Adrianne believes that aviation is an incredible career pathway, full of opportunities and adventure. More women are stepping into the cockpit and pursuing their dreams with mentors like Adrianne paving the way. “It’s an awesome job, so why wouldn’t you do it?” Adrianne asks.
Holmes Aviation and Tristar Aviation
At Holmes Aviation, we are proud to partner with Tristar Aviation and support aspiring pilots on their journey to the skies. With the continuous support from Adrianne Fleming, the future of aviation is more diverse and promising than ever.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward an exciting career in aviation, Holmes Aviation is here to support you. Apply today and take flight with Holmes Aviation!