Dr. Karlene Petitt

Karlene Petitt is a distinguished figure in the aviation industry. She is celebrated for her extensive career as an international airline pilot, her pivotal role in advocating for aviation safety, and her success as an author and speaker. Residing in Seattle, Washington, with her husband, Karlene is a mother to three daughters and a grandmother to eight, embodying professional excellence and family dedication. 

Karlene’s academic achievements are impressive, holding two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. in Aviation Safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her doctoral research spotlighted significant concerns regarding safety culture and pilot training across the globe, affecting pilot performance and operational safety. This groundbreaking work was published as “Normalization of Deviance: A Threat to Aviation Safety,” making critical insights accessible to a wider audience. 

With a career spanning several reputable airlines, Karlene has amassed a formidable expertise, type-rated on a variety of aircraft, including the A350, A330, B777, B747-400, B747-200, B757, B767, B737, and B727. Her roles have varied from First Officer at Delta Airlines to Director of Training and Check Airman, showcasing her versatility and dedication to enhancing aviation standards. Karlene’s experience extends to developing flight training programs, writing manuals, and serving as a simulator instructor, underlining her commitment to fostering a safer aviation environment. 

Karlene Petitt is a prolific author with works spanning genres from non-fiction to aviation thrillers and motivational literature. Her “Flight For” series, including titles such as “Flight For Control,” “Flight For Safety,” and “Flight For Survival,” combines thrilling narratives with real-world aviation challenges, educating readers while keeping them on the edge of their seats. Additionally, her motivational book, “Flight To Success: Be the Captain of Your Life,” and children’s book, “I am Awesome: ABCs of Being Me,” reflect her passion for empowering individuals of all ages. 

Karlene’s vision extends beyond her immediate professional and literary achievements. She is deeply invested in giving back to the aviation and writing communities, supporting and inspiring the next generation of pilots and writers through Jet Star Publishing and various speaking engagements. Her future projects include contributions to safety culture through upcoming publications.