New research shines a spotlight on women in aviation

The Barriers to the Pipeline Research Project, funded through the Australian Government’s Women in the Aviation Industry Initiative, has released its findings into what motivates and discourages women from entering the aviation industry.

Led by Aviation/Aerospace Australia in partnership with Monash University, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and the University of New South Wales, the project surveyed 180 people from across the industry – with 86 per cent of respondents being women.

90 per cent of participants agreed the strongest factor driving female recruitment was a passion for aviation.

The research also showed that, although progress has been made regarding women’s experience in the aerospace sector, there is still a long way to go, with 80 per cent of respondents agreeing the greatest barrier in the industry is male domination.

Having already run for four years, the Women in the Aviation Industry Initiative will continue to support activities to increase female participation across the aviation industry until 2026, after an additional $4 million in funding from the Australian Government.

To read the full report and its findings, visit www.aviationaerospace.org.au/pages/women-in-aaa/barriers-to-the-pipeline-research-project.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

"The Australian Government is committed to supporting a strong and thriving aviation industry which boasts a great working environment for all Australians, including women.

“This research helps us identify what barriers exist, as well as what new and effective mechanisms could be established to overcome barriers and empower the next generation of women to join the aviation sector.

"It will also help the aviation industry improve work practices and develop strategies to attract and retain talent, supporting a stronger aviation workforce into the future.

“With 80 per cent agreeing male domination of the industry is the greatest barrier, it is clear there continues to be a role for the Women in the Aviation Industry Initiative, not just in improving representation and diversity, but also in contributing to broader action to see more inclusive and equitable work environments.

“I’m determined to see greater female participation not just in aviation, but all across the transport sector."