ALERT Editor's note: Indonesian authorities, who are leading the search for the missing AirAsia jet, have not officially declared that corpses and debris found in the Java Sea are from the aircraft despite a high level of confidence – David

Melanie aviation journey began at a young age, earning her first pilot certifications while still a teenager, before she ever held a driver’s license! As lead journalist at AIRLIVE.net, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the voice and editorial direction of the website. Her experience spans flight operations, air traffic coordination and emergency incident analysis.