REACH Recognizes Northern Nevada Pilot Kezia Basnett During Women of Aviation Week
3.7.2025
Among just 9.57% of female pilots in the United States, Basnett encourages aspiring aviators.
REACH Air Medical Services (REACH) is proud to recognize Kezia Basnett as a leader and integral team member for their Northern Nevada bases during Women of Aviation Week. As a certified pilot, Basnett is part of just 9.57% of pilots in the United States who are women, breaking barriers and serving as a role model.
“Be the Pilot In Command (PIC) in your own life,” Basnett offers to aspiring female aviators. In aviation, the PIC is the ultimate decision-maker for all aspects of a flight and is responsible for the safety and operation of an aircraft during that flight. “You deserve to be here, so don't be afraid to act like it,” Basnett continues. “Take up space. It's okay to voice your opinion, it's okay to believe that you might know more than the louder voices.”
Women of Aviation Week takes place annually during the week of March 8 to honor the anniversary of the first woman to earn a pilot’s license, Raymonde de Laroche, in 1910. The week is a celebration of the contributions and achievements of women in the aviation and aerospace industries, aiming to inspire and educate young girls and women about careers in aviation and aerospace, recognize the historical contributions of women in aviation, and promote gender equality in the industry.
“Kezia’s dedication to the REACH mission of providing care at a moment’s notice is evident,” said Ryan Norris, assistant chief pilot. “Kezia came to us with pages of recommendations from current pilots in the program and has not only lived up to those expectations but has exceeded them. She has volunteered to assist with the training department and has qualified as a pilot instructor in the PC-12, while also working toward becoming a Check Airman for the C208 Caravan.”
Basnett has flown for the REACH program for one year, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a unique background. She is the first pilot in her family and completed her training at the University of Alaska. Prior to joining the Nevada team, Basnett flew Cessna Caravans with Grant Aviation in western Alaska for three years, where the lessons learned flying in the bush with rough terrain and often no prepared landing strips or runways were instrumental in shaping her into the pilot she is today.
Flying a fixed-wing PC-12 aircraft, she embodies the essence of teamwork and leadership. "I take the term 'flight team' literally; there is no hierarchy in my team," Basnett explains. "We all bring a unique set of skills to each mission and coordinate with each other to be the most effective we can be."
Basnett's exemplary communication skills are vital in her role. She expertly reads weather conditions, fosters a safe environment for critical decisions, ensures all team members' voices are heard and actively supports the team after challenging missions.
“Find your ladies. Don't do it alone,” continues Basnett. “We don't tear other women down; we lift each other up. There are so many resources online to get plugged in with like-minded ladies. We need to encourage each other, and sometimes we need to let ourselves be encouraged.”
Basnett is an exceptional team member, exemplifying the qualities of a natural team leader. Her contributions inspire her colleagues and elevate the standards of excellence within the REACH family.
“Be the Pilot In Command (PIC) in your own life,” Basnett offers to aspiring female aviators. In aviation, the PIC is the ultimate decision-maker for all aspects of a flight and is responsible for the safety and operation of an aircraft during that flight. “You deserve to be here, so don't be afraid to act like it,” Basnett continues. “Take up space. It's okay to voice your opinion, it's okay to believe that you might know more than the louder voices.”
Women of Aviation Week takes place annually during the week of March 8 to honor the anniversary of the first woman to earn a pilot’s license, Raymonde de Laroche, in 1910. The week is a celebration of the contributions and achievements of women in the aviation and aerospace industries, aiming to inspire and educate young girls and women about careers in aviation and aerospace, recognize the historical contributions of women in aviation, and promote gender equality in the industry.
“Kezia’s dedication to the REACH mission of providing care at a moment’s notice is evident,” said Ryan Norris, assistant chief pilot. “Kezia came to us with pages of recommendations from current pilots in the program and has not only lived up to those expectations but has exceeded them. She has volunteered to assist with the training department and has qualified as a pilot instructor in the PC-12, while also working toward becoming a Check Airman for the C208 Caravan.”
Basnett has flown for the REACH program for one year, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a unique background. She is the first pilot in her family and completed her training at the University of Alaska. Prior to joining the Nevada team, Basnett flew Cessna Caravans with Grant Aviation in western Alaska for three years, where the lessons learned flying in the bush with rough terrain and often no prepared landing strips or runways were instrumental in shaping her into the pilot she is today.
Flying a fixed-wing PC-12 aircraft, she embodies the essence of teamwork and leadership. "I take the term 'flight team' literally; there is no hierarchy in my team," Basnett explains. "We all bring a unique set of skills to each mission and coordinate with each other to be the most effective we can be."
Basnett's exemplary communication skills are vital in her role. She expertly reads weather conditions, fosters a safe environment for critical decisions, ensures all team members' voices are heard and actively supports the team after challenging missions.
“Find your ladies. Don't do it alone,” continues Basnett. “We don't tear other women down; we lift each other up. There are so many resources online to get plugged in with like-minded ladies. We need to encourage each other, and sometimes we need to let ourselves be encouraged.”
Basnett is an exceptional team member, exemplifying the qualities of a natural team leader. Her contributions inspire her colleagues and elevate the standards of excellence within the REACH family.
