How Airlines and Aerospace Companies Are Supporting Women in Aviation

The aviation and aerospace industries have historically been male-dominated, but recent years have seen significant efforts to promote gender diversity. Airlines and aerospace companies are implementing various initiatives to support and encourage women in aviation, aiming to create a more inclusive environment. This article explores some of these initiatives and their impact on the industry. 

 

Industry-Wide Commitments to Gender Diversity

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) launched the 25by2025, a voluntary initiative for member airlines to improve female representation in the industry by 25%, or up to a minimum of 25%, by 2025. Participating airlines commit to increasing the number of women in senior positions and under-represented areas, as well as enhancing female nominations for IATA governance roles. 

 

SkyTeam's RISE Program 

SkyTeam, a global airline alliance, introduced the RISE Program to develop female talent and support STEM careers. SkyTeam also became the first airline alliance to unanimously sign up for IATA's 25by2025 initiative, demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing gender diversity across its member airlines.

 

 

Airline-Specific Initiatives

Airlines for America's Women in Aviation Initiative 

Airlines for America (A4A) launched its Women in Aviation Initiative, organizing events like the inaugural Girls STEM Day, which gathered over 100 local girls from Baltimore schools to engage with aviation professionals, aiming to inspire the next generation of female aviators and engineers. 

 

 

Aerospace Companies' Efforts

Airbus promotes gender equality through various programs designed to inspire women and young girls to pursue careers in aviation. These initiatives align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality, reflecting Airbus' commitment to workforce balance in the aerospace sector. 

 

Blue Origin's All-Female Space Crew 

In a groundbreaking move, Blue Origin announced an all-female crew for its private NS-31 space mission, scheduled for spring 2025. The six-member crew includes notable figures such as Lauren Sanchez, Katy Perry, and Gayle King. This mission aims to promote space tourism and inspire future generations of women in aerospace.

 

Educational and Mentorship Programs

Women in Aviation International

Women in Aviation International is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to advancing women in aviation and aerospace. With over 20,000 members worldwide, WAI provides networking, education, mentoring, and scholarship opportunities to support women's careers in these fields. 

 

International Aerospace Women's Association (IAWA) 

The International Aerospace Women’s Association (IAWA) offers a mentoring program that pairs women embarking on aviation careers with experienced professionals, helping them navigate career opportunities within the aerospace industry. 

 

Brooke Owens Fellowship 

The Brooke Owens Fellowship provides paid internships and executive mentorship for undergraduate women seeking careers in aviation or space exploration. Established in memory of pilot and space policy expert Brooke Owens, the fellowship aims to improve diversity within the aerospace industry. 

 

 

The aviation and aerospace industries are making significant strides in increasing female representation through targeted initiatives, mentorship programs, and public commitments to gender diversity. Continued support and expansion of these programs are essential to sustain this progress and inspire the next generation of women in aviation. 

 

Explore more insights on Women in Aviation: 

5 First Female Engineers: This article highlights pioneering women who made significant contributions to engineering, including figures like Mary Winston Jackson, the first African-American female aeronautical engineer at NASA. 

5 Women in Engineering and How They Changed the Industry: This piece explores the achievements of influential women in engineering history, such as Ada Lovelace and Hedy Lamarr, and their lasting impact on the industry. 

Why We Need More Women in STEM Roles: This article discusses the importance of encouraging young women to study STEM subjects and pursue careers in science and engineering, aiming for a more diverse and equal workforce.