SINGAPORE – Meet Fiona Lee, a daring 31-year-old Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) pilot who, at 27 weeks pregnant, embarked on an adventurous journey in Norway soaring high—literally and figuratively!

Despite her baby bump giving her a new center of gravity, Fiona bravely climbed onto a well-known boulder teetering atop Norway’s Kjerag mountain in June 2024. "There was a mental barrier to conquer," she admitted, but the breathtaking views helped her shake off any anxiety.

Fiona’s audacious expedition caught the attention of Leif Trana, Norway’s Ambassador to Singapore, who invited her to share her experiences over tea. During their meeting high in the Hong Leong Building, Fiona animatedly described her ten-day hiking trip, where she and her software engineer husband, Shao Fei, tackled three towering mountains.

While Pulpit Rock was a breeze for the couple, the challenging 28km trek to Trolltunga and the steep ascent at Kjerag, requiring cables and chains, tested their limits. Fiona's military training proved invaluable, allowing her to conquer the peaks with relative ease.

Embarking on this adventure was Fiona’s way of demonstrating that nothing is insurmountable. She believes that even during major life transitions, like impending motherhood, it's crucial to retain one's passion.”

Fiona initially delayed starting a family due to her rigorous career, but a personal life change spurred her decision to embrace motherhood after her mother’s cancer diagnosis in July 2023.

Although pregnancy brought worries, including the fear of not being able to return to the cockpit, Fiona sought solace in the mountains, stating, "Flying has been integral to my identity, and I worried about making huge sacrifices. I knew I needed this adventure to calm my anxious heart."

Critics might view her trip as controversial, but Fiona meticulously prepared, ensuring her voyage was safe for both her and her baby. With Norway's long summer days and modern medical facilities, it was the perfect location. They spent hours studying over 30 YouTube hiking videos, ensuring the trails would be manageable for her.

As she reached each summit, Fiona felt overwhelming joy and a powerful sense of accomplishment. "All storms will pass if we keep advancing with faith," she reflected.

Now, with her daughter Avril born on September 1—RSAF Day—Fiona and her husband are committed to instilling a love for travel and the outdoors in their daughter. Their adventures continue, having recently returned to Norway for family fun without the hiking.

With Norwegian peaks conquered, Fiona is now embracing motherhood's unique challenges. "Having Avril adds a new dimension to life, and the joy she brings is indescribable," she said. "Adventure doesn’t end with a baby; it begins!”

Fiona’s inspiring journey shows us that with courage and resolve, we can climb any mountain—literally and metaphorically!