ABOUT 59 airlines have committed to address gender balance in the civil aviation industry by committing to the 25by2015 campaign.
The campaign which was launched in September last year will see volunteering airlines committing to increase the number of women in senior positions and to increase the number of women in under-represented jobs such as pilots and operations among others.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), collectively the 59 airlines that have currently committed to 25by2025 represent 30.24% of passenger traffic, covering both traditional and low-cost airlines.
The initiative has resonated around the globe, with signatories coming from all continents; Europe (36), followed by Asia-Pacific (10), the Americas (7) and Africa & Middle East (6).
IATA boss Alexandre de Juniac welcomed the commitment by the 59 airlines adding that things must change to reflect the diversity of its passengers
“Our passengers come from all walks of life, represent different cultures and genders and yet, the industry itself does not represent the diverse world we live in today.
“We know this need to change. I welcome the 59 airlines that have committed to 25by2025. It’s an encouraging step forward in this important journey and I look forward to many more joining the campaign,” he said.
According to IATA, the next phase of the campaign will focus on collecting data on the key areas signatories have committed to: the number of women in senior positions (as defined by the airline), the number of women in underrepresented areas within the airline (e.g., Pilots, Maintenance & Engineering), and the number of nominations and appointments to IATA governance groups.
IATA is also measuring and reporting on the number of women in senior positions, and the number of women represented in industry meetings. The findings will be shared during IATA’s Annual General Meeting and Air Transport Summit in Amsterdam in June 2020.
