TV presenter Catriona Rowntree takes to the sky after gaining pilot’s licence

Beloved television personality Catriona Rowntree feels as though the sky’s the limit after gaining her pilot’s licence – despite battling feelings of doubt.

Catriona Rowntree is taking to the skies after gaining her pilot’s licence. Picture: supplied

Catriona Rowntree feels like the world is her oyster after gaining her pilot’s licence earlier this month.

The TV presenter hopes her feat at age 51 serves as inspiration for other women who feel like time has passed to fulfil a dream.

“I thought no way I could get it done but of course women can do it,’’ Rowntree said.

Catriona Rowntree has passed her pilot's licence. Picture: Supplied

“Meeting 14 year-old girls who are training to be pilots and women in their 80s, it’s just a beautiful feeling and a wonderful new community I am part of and now I feel like the world is my oyster.”

Rowntree started flying this week, taking to the skies in a TL Ultralight Sting, a single engine light aircraft that can fly during the daytime. She has no intention of buying a plane — for now is just enjoying all the new aviation opportunities.

Catriona Rowntree tackles a solo flight. Picture: supplied

Catriona Rowntree has earned her pilot wings. Picture: supplied

She was filled with anxiety and self doubt before stepping into the cockpit but credits the support of husband James Pettit for helping her succeed.

“I had to do the course intensively because I’m married to a farmer so I did it in a few weeks,’’ she said.

“I tried doing it a year ago but just couldn’t land a plane. I had a goal and an end date and just checked myself into a hotel at Redcliff and the only treat I gave myself was to watch MAFS. I turned up at the airfield and got up at 5am and I began that period terrified thinking no way I could fly a plane on my own, but I did and I felt euphoric.

“I know my sons have told everybody so I think that means they’re proud of me. The night I got home I gave them a big hug and said also remember the support your dad gave me.

“He’s really an amazing husband who supported me the whole time.”