RAF Pilot Blends Beauty, Brains, and Bravery in Miss England

As of November 17th, 2025, Maleha Khan, a 26-year-old PhD researcher in rocket science at Cranfield University, has reached the semi-finals of the Miss England pageant. Khan, who hails from Southampton, is juggling her academic work with the pageant, showcasing her ability to excel in both beauty and brains.

Khan's impressive credentials include a Master's degree in Spacecraft Engineering and a pilot's license, which she obtained before even learning to drive a car. In addition to her PhD research, she works as a civilian pilot, determined to inspire women in aviation and STEM fields. Khan believes that women can be both professional and glamorous, breaking the stereotypes that often plague male-dominated industries.

Khan's passion for aviation began at the age of 15 when she was awarded prestigious flying scholarships from the Royal Air Force, the British Women Pilots Association, and the Honourable Company of Air Pilots. Since then, she has piloted five different aircraft and helicopters, and even became a commander of an RAF University Air Squadron, making history with the longest tenure in that role.