British Airways operates the biggest all-female flight in UK history
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Career The recent International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated on Thursday 8 March, saw many aviation recruiters and employers contemplate the remarkable role that female talent has long played in this crucial sector. However, few of them could hope to surpass how British Airways marked the occasion. The airline operated the largest ever all-female flight in the UK on Monday 5 March, involving 61 women, including baggage handlers, flight managers, pilots, cabin crew, porters and return staff, security , check-in and airport teams. “Incredibly proud” of the landmark occasion Among those who reflected warmly on what the flight meant for the aviation industry was British Airways Captain Julie Levy, who commented: “I am incredibly proud to have been part of the team on our flight. “As a mother of two teenage daughters, I think it’s crucial that we take every opportunity we can to inspire the next generation. There was no visibility for female pilots when I was growing up, so I think events like this are important to help showcase the variety of careers available to women.” A Significant Date in Aviation History March 8 is a date of particular importance for women in aviation, as it is also the birthday of the first woman to receive a pilot's license. It's been 108 years since Elise Raymonde Deroche's historic achievement, and for British Airways' all-female-operated flight, there were no fewer than three female pilots in the cockpit. BA also sought to inspire a new generation of women to consider careers in aviation, inviting seven women aged 16 to 18 who had previously had work experience with the airline to be passengers on the flight. According to Joanne Kershaw, BA ramp manager, many roles in aviation were still considered “men only”. She added: “I loved being part of a team of women at the top of their game, all working together for the first time on a flight.” BA was also not the only airline to mark IWD in this way, with all-female crews also being used for easyJet and Virgin Atlantic flights on the day. Can we help you advance your aviation career? Whatever your gender, here at TARCG, the leading aviation recruiter, we can help you take the next big step in this ever-evolving and rewarding industry. Why not upload your CV today to match with the latest vacancies that perfectly suit your aspirations?
