How global aviation is addressing the shortage of female pilots
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 10
- 10 min read
Breaking barriers: How PAL and global aviation leaders are addressing the shortage of female pilots
The aviation industry, long dominated by men, is now taking significant steps to address the shortage of female pilots. Philippine Airlines (PAL) is one of the many airlines leading this change, actively encouraging more women to pursue careers in the cockpit. As the global demand for pilots continues to rise, bringing more women into the aviation workforce is becoming not just an issue of equality but also a practical solution to a looming pilot shortage.
PAL’s commitment to empowering female pilots
In a recent interview with Lifestyle Inquirer, PAL’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Stanley Ng, emphasized the airline’s commitment to promoting gender diversity in its pilot ranks. «PAL is taking proactive measures to inspire and recruit more women to pursue aviation careers,» Ng said, adding that their recruitment and training programs are now more inclusive and accessible.
PAL has recently launched outreach initiatives aimed at encouraging young girls to consider careers in aviation, including partnerships with aviation schools and mentorship programs featuring female pilots as role models.
A global shortage - a global solution
The aviation industry is facing a critical shortage of pilots. According to Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook 2023, the world will need more than 600,000 new pilots by 2040 to meet growing air travel demand. With women making up less than 6% of pilots globally, many experts see increasing female representation as a key solution to this impending shortage.
Alexandra von Plato, President of the International Society of Women Airline Pilots (ISA+21), stressed that «encouraging more women to join the aviation industry is not just about diversity — it’s about ensuring the future of air travel.» ISA+21, founded in 1978, works to support and mentor female pilots, providing scholarships and outreach programs worldwide.
International efforts
to boost female representation
Around the world, airlines and aviation organizations are implementing programs aimed at increasing the number of female pilots. United Airlines recently committed to ensuring that at least 50% of students enrolled in its pilot training academy are women or from underrepresented groups. Similarly, Delta Air Lines has introduced initiatives through its Propel Pilot Career Path Program to support aspiring female aviators.
Katarzyna Jakubowska, President of Women in Aviation International (WAI), highlighted the importance of these initiatives. «We are seeing a shift in attitudes, but there’s still much work to be done to break down the barriers that have historically kept women out of the cockpit,» Jakubowska noted.
Challenges remain despite progress
Despite these efforts, female pilots continue to face numerous challenges, including cultural biases, lack of mentorship, and financial constraints. Captain Bebe O’Neil, former chief pilot at United Airlines and a mentor to aspiring female aviators, noted that «many young women don’t see themselves in the role of a pilot because they’ve never seen someone like them in the cockpit.»
In some regions, the gender gap is even more pronounced. In Asia, where air traffic growth is among the highest globally, female pilot representation remains under 5%. Susan Ying, former director at the International Council of Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS), has been advocating for a more inclusive approach to pilot recruitment, emphasizing that «increasing diversity in aviation will bring new perspectives and improve the industry’s resilience.»
Success stories inspiring future generations
In the Philippines, Captain Amorelle Macay-Martinez, one of PAL’s most senior female pilots, serves as a role model for aspiring female aviators. Martinez, who flies long-haul international routes, shares her journey with young girls through PAL’s outreach programs. «When I started, it was rare to see women in the cockpit. But today, we’re changing that narrative,» she said.
On inspiring future generations she said «When young girls see me in the cockpit, I want them to realize that they too can be here one day. It’s not just a man’s world anymore.»
And about breaking gender barriers in aviation she have said that: «Being in a male-dominated industry, I always believed that gender should never be a limitation in pursuing one’s dreams. If you have the skill, the discipline, and the passion, you can soar just as high.»
An another woman from Philippines, Marjorie Donggayao Mukay is a pioneering C-130 pilot in the Philippine Air Force (PAF). She gained recognition for being among the first female pilots to fly the C-130 Hercules, a military transport aircraft primarily used for humanitarian missions, disaster response, and military logistics.
Mukay’s achievement is a milestone for women in the Philippine military, as the C-130 is one of the most complex and challenging aircraft to operate. Her success highlights the growing presence of women in roles traditionally dominated by men, inspiring future generations of female aviators in the Philippines and beyond.
First in Asia
Aimee Carandang-Gloria made also history in 1988 as the first Filipina and Asian woman to captain a commercial airline flight for Philippine Airlines (PAL). She earned her pilot’s license in 1979 and overcame gender barriers to excel in the male-dominated aviation industry.
Despite challenges, Carandang-Gloria proved that women can succeed in the cockpit. Today, she continues to inspire young women to pursue aviation careers and advocates for gender equality in the industry.
«When I started, there were no female role models in the cockpit. I had to prove that women can handle the responsibilities of flying an aircraft just as well as men.» Aimee Carandang-Gloria
Skill, discipline, and dedication
Captain Patricia Yapp Syau Yin is the first female MiG-29 fighter pilot in Asia, breaking barriers in the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). Born in Sandakan, Sabah, she was inspired by her brother’s aviation career and pursued her dream of flying.
After rigorous training, Yapp joined No. 17/19 Squadron and qualified to fly the MiG-29N Fulcrum, a highly sophisticated Russian-made supersonic jet. Her achievement in 2000 paved the way for aspiring female pilots in Malaysia and across Asia.
Yapp faced challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field but proved her worth through skill, discipline, and dedication. She now advocates for women in aviation, encouraging young girls to pursue careers in aviation and defense and have said that:
«In the cockpit, gender does not matter. It’s about skill, discipline, and commitment.»
Globally, pioneers like Amy Johnson in the UK and Bessie Coleman in the US paved the way for women in aviation, and their stories continue to inspire the next generation.
Amy Johnson (1903–1941) was a pioneering British aviator who became the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia. In 1930, she flew her de Havilland Gipsy Moth aircraft, Jason, covering over 11,000 miles in 19 days, earning international fame. Johnson went on to set numerous long-distance flying records and became a symbol of female empowerment in aviation. During World War II, she served as a pilot for the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA), ferrying aircraft across Britain. Tragically, Johnson died in 1941 when her plane crashed into the Thames Estuary during a mission.
Bessie Coleman (1892–1926) was the first African-American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Denied entry into American flight schools due to her race and gender, she moved to France and obtained her license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale in 1921. Known for her daring air shows and commitment to promoting aviation among African Americans, Coleman dreamed of opening a flight school for Black pilots. She died in 1926 during a test flight but left a lasting legacy as a pioneer who broke barriers in aviation.
«I decided blacks should not have to experience the difficulties I had faced, so I decided to open a flying school and teach other black women to fly.»
Political and institutional support
Governments and international organizations are also stepping in to promote gender diversity in aviation. Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), has called for stronger policies to encourage female participation in aviation. «We need to foster an environment where women see aviation as a viable career path,» he remarked at a recent ICAO Assembly.
In the European Union, Adina Vălean, European Commissioner for Transport, has pushed for more funding to support women pursuing careers in aviation. «We cannot afford to lose out on the talents of half of the population if we want a sustainable aviation sector,» she said.
The future: Closing the gender gap in aviation
As PAL and other global airlines push to recruit more female pilots, the aviation industry is slowly beginning to change. Increasing the number of women in aviation not only promotes diversity but also addresses the urgent need for pilots worldwide.
With proactive measures, institutional support, and inspiring role models, the future of aviation is looking more inclusive. As Captain Martinez put it, «When young girls see us in the cockpit, they know they can be there too.»
Key takeaway:
Airlines like PAL and international aviation leaders are making concerted efforts to break gender barriers in the cockpit. These initiatives not only empower women but also provide a crucial solution to the global pilot shortage.
International campaign
Here’s how each of the key international campaigns and organizations is actively working to recruit and support female pilots:
International Society of Women Airline Pilots (ISA+21)
Scholarships: ISA+21 offers annual scholarships to help women complete their flight training and obtain the necessary certifications.
Mentoring Programs: They provide mentorship by pairing aspiring female pilots with experienced commercial airline pilots.
Outreach and Advocacy: The organization conducts outreach programs at aviation schools and industry events to encourage young women to consider aviation careers.
Women in Aviation International (WAI)
Scholarships and Financial Aid: WAI has awarded over $14 million in scholarships to women pursuing careers in aviation, including pilot training.
Girls in Aviation Day: This annual event introduces thousands of young girls to aviation careers through hands-on activities, simulator sessions, and pilot mentorship.
Conferences and Networking: WAI organizes global conferences where aspiring female pilots can connect with aviation professionals and access career resources.
United Aviate Academy (United Airlines Initiative)
Diversity Goals: United Airlines has pledged that 50% of the students enrolled at its Aviate Academy will be women and people from underrepresented backgrounds.
Fully Sponsored Training: The academy offers fully funded pilot training, removing financial barriers that often prevent women from pursuing aviation careers.
Direct Career Pathway: Graduates of the Aviate Academy are guaranteed a pathway to become pilots for United Airlines
Airbus Fly Your Dream Program
Promoting STEM and Aviation: Airbus conducts workshops, school visits, and public awareness campaigns to encourage young girls to pursue STEM and aviation careers.
Mentorship and Outreach: Airbus mentors provide guidance and career advice to young women interested in aviation.
Female Role Models: The program highlights female Airbus pilots and engineers as role models to inspire the next generation.
Girls Take Flight (Canada)
Hands-on Aviation Experience: The program offers hands-on experiences like flight simulators, aircraft maintenance demonstrations, and cockpit tours to introduce young girls to aviation.
Career Talks and Mentorship: Female pilots and aviation professionals share their experiences and offer career guidance to participants.
Annual Aviation Outreach Events: Events are held across Canada to engage with schools and communities, encouraging girls to consider careers in aviation.
easyJet’s Amy Johnson Flying Initiative (UK)
Financial Support: easyJet provides financial assistance and sponsorships to female candidates pursuing pilot training.
Awareness Campaigns: The airline conducts outreach programs at schools and universities to encourage girls to consider a career as a pilot.
Mentorship and Career Development: Female pilot mentors guide candidates through the training and recruitment process, ensuring their success in aviation.
Etihad Airways' Women in Aviation Program (UAE)
Recruitment and Training: Etihad has implemented specialized recruitment programs to identify and train aspiring female pilots.
Leadership and Mentorship: The airline pairs experienced female aviation professionals with trainees to provide guidance and mentorship.
Career Development Opportunities: Etihad offers career development programs to help female pilots advance within the airline.
Boeing’s Women Make It Fly Campaign
Funding and Scholarships: Boeing partners with global organizations to offer scholarships that help women complete pilot training.
Promoting Aviation Careers: The campaign highlights inspiring stories of female pilots and aviation professionals to encourage young girls to explore aviation careers.
STEM Outreach and Advocacy: Boeing works with schools and communities to promote STEM education and career pathways in aviation.
African Women in Aviation Association (AWIAA)
Mentorship and Training: AWIAA offers mentorship programs to guide young women through the challenges of entering the aviation industry.
Advocacy for Gender Diversity: The association advocates for policies and initiatives that promote gender diversity in Africa’s aviation sector.
Leadership and Capacity Building: AWIAA provides leadership training and career development opportunities for women in aviation across Africa.
ICAO’s global aviation gender summit
Policy Development: ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization.) encourages its member states to implement policies that promote gender equality in aviation.
Capacity Building Programs: ICAO offers training and scholarships aimed at increasing the participation of women in aviation.
Data and Research: ICAO monitors and publishes data on gender diversity in aviation, providing insights and policy recommendations to improve gender balance.
How they’re making a difference:
These organizations and campaigns are creating pathways for women to become pilots by:
Providing financial support through scholarships and sponsorships. Offering mentorship and career guidance to aspiring female aviators. Creating outreach programs to inspire young girls to pursue aviation careers. Developing inclusive policies to support gender diversity in aviation globally.
