To mark International Women’s Day (8 March), the British Airline Pilots’ Association has signed the Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter, reaffirming its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in the aviation industry.

The signing of the charter highlights BALPA’s dedication to supporting and advancing the careers of women in aviation. By endorsing this initiative, BALPA pledges to push for change to create an environment where women can thrive in piloting and other aviation roles. Currently only six per cent of pilots are women.

The charter commits organisations to promote female leadership in aviation, with targets and annual reporting on progress. BALPA has campaigned for better maternity rights for pilots and campaigned for fair financing for pilot training – which can cost up to £130,000.

BALPA General Secretary Amy Leversidge said:  “We are delighted to sign up to the Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter. A third of our National Executive Council are women and we are proud to lead by example in aviation. In signing the charter we’re taking another step towards greater diversity, in collaboration with others across the industry. Anyone with the talent and skills to be a pilot should have the opportunity to do so. It is only by working together that we can break down barriers and create a future where women have equal representation and opportunity in aviation.”

Victoria Foy and Sumati Sharma, co-Chairs of the Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter welcomed the announcement:  “We’re delighted to welcome BALPA, our first aviation-specific union to be a Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter signatory. Females make up just 5% of commercial pilots, and BALPA’s commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion to all who pursue this journey is admirable.

“The Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter remains committed to supporting women and their allies towards delivering increased gender diversity in our industries.”