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.