In November 2022, world’s tallest woman, Rumeysa Gelgi, experienced her first flight ever, thanks to Turkish Airlines modifying one of their planes to accommodate her impressive height of 7 feet 0.7 inches (215.16cm). Guinness World Records officially recognized her as the tallest woman alive earlier this year. Rumeysa, who has Weaver syndrome causing accelerated growth, usually navigates using a wheelchair or walker.
Rumeysa Gelgi, aged 27, had never been on a plane before because she was too tall to fit in regular seats, even when she was a child. However, her national airline, Turkish Airlines, made it possible for her to travel abroad. In September, she flew to San Francisco using a specially-designed stretcher. They removed six seats from the plane to ensure she could fly comfortably.
After landing in California, she shared on Instagram, “A flawless journey from start to finish… this was my first plane ride but it certainly won’t be my last… heartfelt thank you to each and every person who has been a part of my journey.”
The 27-year-old went to San Francisco to advance her career in software development. She also plans to work with Guinness World Records to support different events. In October 2022, Gelgi officially became the world’s tallest living female, as confirmed by the organization.
When she received her Guinness world record certificate, Gelgi shared, “Every disadvantage can be turned into an advantage for yourself, so accept yourself for who you are, be aware of your potential, and do your best.”
This was her second time achieving a world record; she was previously named the tallest teenager alive in 2014. Since then, she has used her position to speak up for others with rare conditions.
“Being different is not as bad as you think. It can bring you unexpected success,” Gelgi said in a 2022 interview per Daily Mail. “I personally think that differences and other features which seem like a disadvantage can be turned to advantages if you want it and make the effort for it. That is exactly what I did.”
Gelgi has achieved Guinness World Records for having the longest thumb, largest hands, and longest back among living females. Her followers expressed their joy at learning that she found an airline that would accommodate her.
“So happy for your Gelgi,” one wrote.
“YOU GO GIRL!!!!!” another said.
Turkish Airlines also reacted to Gelgi’s post, stating, “Hello Ms. Rümeysa, we are very happy that your flight went smoothly and your valuable feedback. We always want to do what we can for you, and our work continues in this direction. Whenever you need us, we are here for you as Turkish Airlines.”
The tallest man globally is Sultan Kosen, who is also Turkish, measured at 8 feet 2.8 inches (251cm) in 2018. Gelgi expresses her hope to meet him in person one day. Zeng Jinlian from China holds the record as the tallest woman ever, measured at 8 feet 1 inch (246.3cm) before her passing in 1982.
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Source: Daily Mail
