Shannon Samantha Russell, daughter of the late Sling Aircraft South Africa Chief Test Pilot, Sean Russell, has set a new world altitude record for women in her class of aircraft, reaching a verified true altitude of 32,059 feet in a Sling TSi. The achievement, completed in aircraft N916TS operated by Sling Aircraft North America, marks an exceptional milestone for a young aviator whose career continues to accelerate at a remarkable pace.
The record-setting flight demonstrated the formidable performance capabilities of the South African–designed Sling TSi, powered by the turbocharged Rotax 916iS engine. Operating exclusively on Swift Unleaded Avgas, Russell’s climb also underscored the increasing viability of lead-free aviation fuels and the industry’s gradual shift towards more sustainable operational practices. A second pilot, Jean d’Assonville, accompanied her during the flight to assist with system monitoring and ensure strict adherence to high-altitude safety protocols.
Remarkably, Russell achieved this feat just one day after earning her Sport Pilot Instructor certificate, making her one of the youngest instructors qualified to teach within the emerging MOSAIC aircraft category in the United States. At only twenty years old, she is already positioned at the forefront of next-generation light aviation training.
A Personal Legacy Carried to 32,059 Feet
The significance of the record extends far beyond the technical accomplishment. Shannon carried with her a portion of her late father’s ashes, taking them to the edge of the flight levels as a tribute to the man who sparked her passion for aviation. Although she has built her career in the United States, her aviation foundations remain inseparable from her father’s legacy and the Sling Aircraft community in South Africa, where Sean Russell served as a respected and influential test pilot.
Her climb into the thin air above 32,000 feet served as both a demonstration of skill and a deeply personal gesture, symbolising the continuation of a family passion for flight.
South African Aerospace Engineering on the Global Stage
The aircraft itself stands as a testament to South African engineering. The Sling TSi, conceived and manufactured in Johannesburg, has gained a global reputation for its efficiency, versatility and robust performance envelope. The altitude record highlights these qualities in a dramatic and unequivocal way, reinforcing the brand’s standing as a world leader in light aircraft design.
The climb showcased the efficiency of the Rotax 916iS at altitude, the aerodynamic refinement of the TSi airframe and the reliability that has made Sling aircraft a popular choice in both training and touring roles worldwide. Although the record was achieved in the United States, it reflects the wider impact of South African aerospace innovation across international markets.
Skill, Safety and Preparation
Executing a high-altitude record attempt in an unpressurised aircraft requires meticulous planning and comprehensive risk management. In preparing for the climb, Russell consulted oxygen specialists, medical advisors and Rotax technical experts to ensure that every aspect of the flight was conducted safely.
High-altitude masks, continuous health monitoring equipment and detailed pre-flight briefings formed essential elements of the operation. The flight was a controlled and deliberate record attempt and is not indicative of standard operational profiles for the aircraft.
A Rising Young Aviator
Russell’s achievements are striking not only for their technical merit but for the pace at which she has advanced. She began her flying journey at the age of sixteen, progressing rapidly through her Private Pilot Licence, Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Licence before qualifying as a Sport Pilot Instructor. Alongside her operational training, she has represented Sling Aircraft and Sling Pilot Academy at major aviation events, including EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo. She also contributes to the ASTM Committee for MOSAIC, assisting in the development of standards that will shape the next generation of light-sport aircraft.
Her commitment to outreach is equally notable. As a Young Woman in Aviation Ambassador, she has supported and mentored aspiring female aviators, using her growing platform to promote broader access and representation within the industry.
Supplied by Shannon Russell, and rewritten by Sherryn de Vos
