A Week That Supports Women in Aviation Around the Globe

March 9, 2011

This week marks Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, which showcases today’s women of aviation and encourages young girls and women to consider careers in aviation. The initiative, which runs from March 7 to 13, is scheduled to coincide with and celebrate International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8.

All areas of the aviation industry, including business aviation, are welcome to participate in the initiative. In 2011, 16 major events are planned in four countries, including nine in the United States, with more still being added. Activities include flying events, factory and school open-door events, museum special programs and various contests. For example, the Fly It Forward Challenge invites both male and female pilots to take a non-pilot girl or woman on a short flight to introduce her to the joys of flying.

“Women of Aviation Worldwide Week is meant to promote awareness of the opportunities aviation offers women in the male-dominated sectors of the aviation industry,” said Mireille Goyer, founder and international team leader. “We encourage open doors and day-at-work events for all of these sectors.”
One major reason for this one-week effort is to increase the strength of the message that women are welcome in aviation.

“Many make efforts in their own community, but their message often stops at the airport fence,” said Goyer. “To change the profile of the aviation industry, we need to let the public at large know we seek and welcome women in aviation. We encourage all participants to communicate with local media to make their actions more effective.”
Events and contests are listed online at www.womenofaviationweek.org. The site offers an automated registration capability for free events and uses social media to advertise them. To list an event, contact the organization directly through the web site.

Additionally, aviation businesses are asked to sponsor contest prizes and, in turn, receive “Certified Women Friendly Aviation Business” seals to display. Flight schools and clubs that take part in the celebration receive “Certified Women Friendly Flight Training Facility” awards.

“We encourage all NBAA Members to earn a Women of Aviation Worldwide Week certified seal through their positive, pro-women integration and actions, which tells women they are in good hands while dealing with a particular company,” concluded Goyer.

Learn more at www.womenofaviationweek.org.