There are some industries where the women representation in the higher level positions is skewed and unfortunately, aviation industry happens to be one of those industries right now. However, things do not necessarily look bleak in this regard. However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has started a campaign called 25by2025 in which it seeks to increase the number of women in senior positions (to be defined by the member airlines) by either 25% against currently reported metrics or to a minimum representation of 25% by 2025 and increase the number of women in under-represented jobs (e.g., pilots and operations) by either 25% against currently reported metrics or to a minimum representation of 25% by 2025. As per the new IATA report on this matter, the campaign has been strengthened by the joining of 59 airlines.
25by2025 Campaign by IATA
Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO remarked on this achievement, “Our passengers come from all walks of life, represent different cultures and genders and yet, the industry itself does not represent the diverse world we live in today. We know this needs to change. I welcome the 59 airlines that have committed to 25by2025. It’s an encouraging step forward in this important journey and I look forward to many more joining the campaign.”
59 Airlines Join IATA in Campaign
IATA also noted that collectively the 59 airlines that have currently committed to 25by2025 represent 30.24% of passenger traffic, covering both traditional and low-cost airlines. The initiative has resonated around the globe, with signatories coming from all continents.
Further on, the next phase of this campaign will focus on collecting data on the key areas signatories have committed to which includes the number of women in senior positions (as defined by the airline), the number of women in underrepresented areas within the airline (e.g., Pilots, Maintenance & Engineering), and the number of nominations and appointments to IATA governance groups. IATA is also measuring and reporting on the number of women in senior positions, and the number of women represented in industry meetings. The findings will be shared during IATA’s Annual General Meeting and Air Transport Summit in Amsterdam in June 2020.
