The New England Section 99s
Invite you to Join Us!
The 99s takes its inspiration from women in aviation history and works to promote the advancement of women in aviation today . . .”
The New England Section of The 99s is one of 26 sections of 99s in the world. Our membership is divided into chapters that are part of geographical “Sections” that cover several states in the U.S., provinces in Canada and countries.
There are three chapters within the New England Section:
(Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont)
(Eastern MA, Rhode Island, and Southern New Hampshire)
(Connecticut and Western MA)
- Join The 99s — The International Organization of Women Pilots
- Attend a meeting in your area and meet other women pilots
- Participate in events, scholarship & aerospace education activities
Who We Are
Many faces, all in love with flying
We are a diverse group of aviators encompassing many professions – from airline pilots and CFIs to doctors, artists, photographers,
Meet our current Governor Margot Cheel
I have been a member of the New England Section since 2002, signing up right after I earned my PPL. I have held a number of positions both in the Eastern New England Chapter and in the New England Section.
I served as Chapter newsletter editor, back when the newsletter was photocopied, stuffed into envelopes by hand, and mailed; as Vice Chair; and as Chapter Chair. On the Section level, I’ve been Vice Governor and served a term as Governor 2018-2020. I continue to be the Oral History Chair for the Section, producing video interviews of older members to preserve their stories of flying and contribution to the 99s.
Once I took up flying, I found a new calling. Combining my passion for flight with my love of the arts I became an aerial photographer. For over two decades I have served realtors, environmental groups, homeowners, and others with my aerial photos, exhibiting my images and speaking at many venues. I have also published two aerial photography books. At 99s events, proceeds of the sale of these books go to 99s scholarships.
It has been a joy and a privilege to be part of the 99s. The community, the camaraderie and the spirit of encouragement make this a very special organization supporting women’s aviation dreams and goals. I look forward to serving the New England Section again. It is very exciting at this time when there is so much interest, growth, and opportunity for women to fly!
What We Do
Small but Mighty!
The New England Section (comprised of three chapters) come together for meetings in the Spring and Fall of each year. The Section meeting is hosted by one of the chapters and is held in their geographic area of New England.
Other annual events hosted by the chapters of the New England Section include a fundraising flying Poker Run, Scholarship Luncheon and numerous other such as Girl Scout events, Fly-Ins, air shows, seminars, talks, tours, mentoring, support, support, support……
Meet CT Chapter Member Terry Vandendolder
Terry VandenDolder took her first flying lessons while in her junior year at the University of Connecticut. Bit by the flying bug after only 2 flights, Terry applied for and was accepted to the Air Force pilot training program after graduating from the University of Connecticut. Terry served 10 years on active duty and 18 years in the Air Force Reserve. She was a C-141B instructor pilot flying global cargo / transport missions around the world from Pakistan to Antarctica, Europe to Africa, while based at Travis AFB, CA. Terry was an evaluator pilot in the C-21A (Lear 35) at Andrews AFB, MD, transporting White House, Congressional and DoD dignitaries when she was not instructing new pilots in the aircraft. She commanded C-141B cargo/transport missions to the Middle East during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-91. She also served as a legislative liaison for the Secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon. After serving 28 years in the active duty Air Force and A.F. Reserve, Terry retired from her military career in 2009 as a Lieutenant Colonel.
In 1990 she was hired by American Airlines. Since 1990, Terry has flown domestic and international flights on the MD-80, B-737, 757, 767, based out of Washington, D.C. Currently she is based at JFK airport in NY where she flies international flights to Europe and South America on the B-777.