UPDATE #QZ8501 Thunderstorms were reported in the area, with clouds up to 50,000 feet, when air traffic controllers lost contact with the missing AirAsia jet, according to the Indonesian transport ministry

Melanie's 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.