For some months he was unable to find employment with any airline, and had to be content with odd jobs. In 1924, he returned to France and was demobilised. His encounter with harsh desert conditions, especially during a forced landing, stood him in good stead through life. In 1922, he left for Syria where he flew 600 hours in 18 months. He was especially revered in Argentina because he put that country firmly on the international aviation map, despite enormous odds.Īt the age of 19, Mermoz signed up with the French Air Force, but obtained his pilot’s licence only on his third attempt.
Born on December 9, 1901, at Aubenton, Aisne, he was considered a hero by many in his own country as well as in South America. The US press called him “France’s Lindbergh”. He was a French cultural icon and Commander of the Legion of Honour. Mermoz was one of the most celebrated pilots of his time, handsome and dashing, making a career out of adventure. The daredevil pilot Jean Mermoz emerged the winner. In 1992, a poll was conducted to determine the greatest aviator of France.
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