The Airport Operators Association (AOA) is marking this year’s International Women’s Day by highlighting some of work being done by airports across the UK to inspire inclusion and gender parity.
Karen Dee, AOA’s Chief Executive, said: “International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to highlight all the great work being done by airports 365 days a year to increase female participation in aviation. We want the next generation of women to know the opportunities that airports and aviation has, and the contribution they can make to this vitally important sector.”
Citing how airports are working with local schools to inspire the next generation and providing a workplace that is more supportive to women’s needs, she added that airports are at the forefront of increasing diversity.
Dee was joined by AOA Chair, Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith, who reiterated the trade body’s support for women in aviation saying: “I am passionate about improving skills and developing female colleagues in aviation, so it is brilliant to see everything airports are doing. There are roles for every kind of skill set and chances for fulfilling and wide-ranging careers.” She also underlined that airports are working hard to raise awareness of these every day.
Alongside Gatwick and Heathrow, the AOA credited Liverpool John Lennon Airport with helping develop women across the business. The airport is launching a Women’s Mentoring Scheme with a focus on achieving 50% female representation at senior management level by 2028.
“Getting more women involved in aviation will have significant benefits to the economy, widening the talent pool, increasing productivity and developing a sector that more effectively meets passengers’ needs. I am delighted to be a part of this process and to represent a sector doing so much to increase the opportunities for women.”
