Breaking barriers for women pilots in Australia
Women make up just 8 per cent of licensed pilots in Australia, industry groups say.
Women make up just 8 per cent of licensed pilots in Australia according to the latest Civil Aviation Safety Authority statistics. Female pilots in Western Australia's Kimberley say passengers often hold stereotypes, not their male colleagues.
Some passengers thought female pilots were flight attendants. The Australian Women Pilots Association says family-friendly policies could help.
Professional development chances would help too. Stronger career pathways could make a difference.
Pilots in the Kimberley point to the value of visibility. Seeing women as captains encourages younger girls.
They believe they can follow the same path. The federal government funded a Women in the Aviation Industry Initiative from 2019.
They committed $8 million. It helps more women become pilots.
It helps them stay in the job across the sector.
- 8 percent
- Women pilots percentage
- 8 million dollars
- Government funding
- 2019
- Initiative start year
Why it mattersAviation is still heavily male-dominated. This limits career options and diversity in a skilled profession.
AustraliaAustralia's pilot shortage is long-standing; closing the gender gap could expand the workforce while opening opportunities for more women in high-skilled careers.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
