Airline Removes Six Seats To Allow World's Tallest Woman Fly On Plane For First Time (Photos)

Rumeysa Gelgi, the tallest woman in the world has been able to fly in a plane for the very first time.

The tall woman took to the skies for the first time in her life after Turkish Airlines adapted one of their planes to accommodate her towering 7ft frame.

Rumeysa Gelgi, who stands at 7ft 0.7inches (215.16cm), was officially named the tallest woman alive by Guinness World Records earlier this year.

She typically gets around in a wheelchair or with the aid of a walker, her huge stature the result of a condition called Weaver syndrome which, among other things, causes accelerated growth.

Gelgi, 24, had never travelled on a plane before, having been too tall to fit in regular airline seats even as a child.

But she is now able to travel abroad and flew to San Francisco in September thanks to her national airline, which tore out six seats aboard one of its aircraft and replaced them with a specially-made stretcher to allow Gelgi to fly in comfort.   

Posting on Instagram having landed in California, she said: '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 24-year-old travelled to San Francisco to further her career in software development, but she will also co-ordinate with Guinness World Records to promote various events.

Gelgi was confirmed last month as the world's tallest living female by the organisation.

Upon the receipt of her Guinness world record certificate, Gelgi said: '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.'

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Source: Daily Mail UK