In its recent report, the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Association (IFALPA) unpacked what took place at the Female Pilots’ Working Group (FPWG) in Singapore. Held in November 2024, the aviation world marked a significant milestone for gender representation in the aviation industry.
This event was a historic moment in more ways than one: it was the first time the FPWG meeting was held in Asia, highlighting the increasing significance of gender equity discussions within the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
The gathering in Singapore brought together female pilots from 19 countries, alongside IFALPA representatives and key stakeholders from across the aviation industry, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).
Hot Topics on the Table
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Senior Minister of State Dr. Amy Khor Lean Suan, who recognised the vital role of female pilots in shaping the future of aviation. Dr. Khor celebrated the resilience and dedication of the women present—many of whom had travelled long distances, balanced family commitments, or even attended the meeting while on maternity leave. Other discussions at the FPWG meeting focused on some of the most critical issues facing female pilots today. Among the key topics discussed were:
- Challenges in Work-Life Balance and Maternity Policies: Many countries still lack structured maternity policies for female pilots, which leaves significant gaps in support systems for women during and after pregnancy. These policies remain a crucial factor in retaining women in the profession.
- The Need for Leadership Representation: Women continue to be underrepresented in senior leadership positions within airlines and aviation organisations. The conference called for proactive policies and mentorship programs that will help women progress to leadership roles within the industry.
- Addressing Discriminatory Practices: Reports from member associations revealed that some airlines continue to require female pilots to disclose personal information that their male counterparts are not asked to provide. This highlights a continued gender disparity in hiring and employment practices, which needs to be addressed for real equality to take hold in aviation.
The FPWG reaffirmed IFALPA’s dedication to advancing gender representation by focusing on key strategies for change. These included:
- Retention and Career Advancement: Encouraging member associations to ensure that female pilots are supported not just at the point of hiring, but throughout their careers. This includes ensuring that women have access to leadership pathways and professional growth.
- Advocacy for Equitable Policies: Pushing for standardised maternity and family support policies across all jurisdictions. These policies are essential in ensuring that female pilots can balance their careers with family life and remain in the profession for the long term.
- Creating a Stronger Network of Female Pilots: Expanding mentorship and support programs that help foster career growth at every stage. Networking is critical to overcoming barriers and building a supportive community for women pilots.
One standout moment was the speech by Lieutenant Colonel Nah Jingping, the first female F-15 pilot in the Singapore Air Force, who shared valuable insights into the barriers and opportunities women face in aviation. Her powerful testimony about breaking barriers in a male-dominated field highlighted the resilience of women in aviation and offered inspiration to the next generation of female pilots.
Bridging the Global Gender Gap in Aviation: Looking into Africa
While the Singapore meeting marked a historic moment for the APAC region, the conversation around gender equity in aviation is one that resonates globally, including in Africa. Female pilots on the continent face unique challenges, but they also embody the perseverance and determination seen in other regions like APAC.
In Africa, the aviation industry has been steadily evolving, yet female representation in the cockpit remains low, particularly in leadership roles. A report from the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) found that while the percentage of female pilots has increased in some countries, women in aviation across the continent still face significant barriers, including socio-cultural norms, lack of mentorship, and limited access to training.
One of the major challenges is the financial burden of flight training. In many African countries, flight training remains prohibitively expensive, and female pilots often face additional societal pressures that discourage them from pursuing aviation careers. While some women have broken through these barriers, the number of female pilots remains disproportionately low compared to their male counterparts.
However, Africa is also seeing encouraging trends. Across the continent, governments and private organisations are beginning to recognise the importance of gender diversity in aviation. For instance, South Africa has launched several initiatives aimed at encouraging more women to join the aviation workforce, such as mentorship programs and scholarships for aspiring female pilots. Similarly, Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines have made strides in promoting gender equality by actively recruiting female pilots and offering career advancement opportunities.
Additionally, the establishment of regional networks and associations, like the African Women in Aviation (AWA) group, has provided much-needed platforms for women to share their experiences, exchange knowledge, and support one another. These networks are helping to break down some of the barriers that have historically hindered female participation in the aviation industry.
A Turning Point for Global Collaboration
The FPWG meeting in Singapore was more than just a milestone for the Asia-Pacific region; it marked a turning point for global collaboration in advancing female pilot representation. By bringing these critical conversations to the APAC region, IFALPA is driving tangible change and ensuring that female pilots are not only encouraged to enter the profession, but also have equal opportunities to thrive and lead.
As we wrap up Women’s Month in 2025, the events in Singapore—and the ongoing efforts in Africa—serve as powerful reminders that the future of aviation is female. With continued global collaboration, the skies will become a more inclusive space for all pilots, regardless of gender.
