I've chosen two people, the first is not everyone's obvious choice, but I think she should be regarded.

She starting her flying career with gliding, where she excelled, breaking numerous records including the highest altitude, and she also took part in various gliding competitions.

Just before the Second World War she flew the Focke-Achgelis FA 61 inside an exhibition hall in Berlin.

She became even more renowned during the Second World War, where she became a test pilot for the Luftwaffe. During this time she flew most of the German military types including a manned V-1 Doodlebug. She also flew a top German Officer out of central Berlin in the last days of the War whilst under fire from Russian troops.

She was captured later on and eventually released, where she returned to gliding during the fifties and continued to amass records.

A truly remarkable lady.

No one can question this persons contribution to avaition however personally I can think of more suitable persons, such as Amelia Earhart  Amy Johnson, Jaqueline Cochrane Pancho Barnes and others.

Hanna Reitsch was a member of a political elite which brought death, misery, destruction and countless suffering  to millions of innocent people, and therfore I cannot agree with your choice.

The last thing I am trying to promote is her political side. As I haven't mentioned it, was there any need for you too? There was more to her than that.

And before you get the wrong impression from me. I'm not a supporter of their ideal either.

I would never make such an assumption of anyone.