It is with deep sadness that we received the news of the death of Mrs Hanna Zawadzka-Badura — an outstanding pilot, instructor and one of the most important figures in Polish gliding. She wrote herself permanently into history by setting, in a “Bocian” glider, a world record in the out-and-return flight in the two-seater class — 373.6 km (1962). At the new permanent exhibition “With the Wind and Against the Wind — Civil Aviation” at the Polish Aviation Museum, her aviation trophies donated to the Museum can be admired.
Hanna Zawadzka-Badura (née Zawadzka) began glider training in 1945. She flew actively between 1958 and 1984. She was a Class I glider pilot and a Class II instructor, a member of the National Team and of the Bielsko-Biała Aeroclub.
She also held a Polish record ratified on a 100 km course at a speed of 100 km/h. She participated numerous times in national and international gliding competitions, achieving very high placings, including fifth place at the 1st International Women’s Gliding Championships (1973) and eighth place in the women’s classification at the International Gliding Championships of Socialist States (1977).
As one of the very few women glider pilots, she had achievements qualifying her for the award of diamonds to the Gliding Badge, already at the Silver Badge stage. She was honoured with the Gold Gliding Badge with Three Diamonds, which is the highest distinction in gliding.
In 2025, the Polish Aviation Museum received from Mrs Hanna Zawadzka-Badura her personal memorabilia and sports trophies. Part of the donated collection is currently presented at the permanent exhibition “With the Wind and Against the Wind — Civil Aviation” in Hangar No. 5. Among the exhibits are, among others, cups from the Polish Gliding Championships, awards for outstanding sporting achievements and souvenirs from international gliding competitions.
The passing of Mrs Hanna Zawadzka-Badura is a great loss for the aviation and sporting community. Her legacy, passion and achievements will remain an enduring part of the history of Polish wings.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.
