A female pilot has shared her experiences of breaking into the ‘challenging’ industry as a woman and has some words of advice for those who are considering the same journey as her
A female pilot has urged women to chase their dreams when it comes to their careers and not be deterred by male-dominated industries. Jenna, from Manchester, shared her inspiring journey on the ‘Update Aviation’ Facebook page, hoping to motivate others to follow their passions, even if they do feel like they’re chasing an impossible dream.
She emphasised the need for resilience but reassured that there’s “always a way” to make dreams come true. She penned: “My aviation journey began from a young age when my dad would take me to the Manchester airport pub every weekend to watch the planes! After we went on our first family holiday and my first time on a plane, I knew that was a job I had to do. Ever since, I have never given up on that dream.
“I have recently completed flight school and just got my first job flying the 737! (It still doesn’t feel real.)
“I started my flight training in January 2023 on an Integrated ATPL. I went over the Phoenix AZ for 8 months to learn how to fly and can honestly say it was the most amazing time I have ever had.
“I don’t think anything will beat flying all over the desert in a little PA28 every morning.”
She added: “Although I had the time of my life at flight school, and made memories that will last forever, I think it’s important to add that it does come with its challenges, and to get to the point it took rejection, determination and a whole lot of resilience.
“My advice to lady aviators is if you have a dream of being a pilot, you owe it to yourself to pursue it! Aviation can be a challenging industry to get into, both financially and mentally. But there is always a way!
“The flight deck has a place for anyone who has the passion to be in there, regardless of who you are!
“As a female who felt nervous about going into a male-dominated industry, I have to say how welcoming I have found the aviation industry!
“I’ve made lifelong friends and feel part of a community that always helps each other out!”
In the comments section, people shared their own experiences.
One mum wrote: “My daughter’s dream is to become a pilot. She has flown two small planes from Barton airport, Manchester, and absolutely loves it. She is only 12, nearly 13, and next week she is joining the air cadets to experience that side of aviation”.
Another added: “Well done and congratulations. My son has just started with Tui as a Pilot and will be based in Manchester. It has made me realise how hard the training is and how dedicated you have to be. It’s a wonderful industry to be in. Enjoy every minute,” a dad praised.
Someone else chimed in: “Well done to you. Absolutely fantastic. You show those stripes with pride, hun. Hard work pays off.”
Whilst another penned: “Well done Jenna you will never look back to what you have achieved I just love flying. Hope you’re flying one of my holidays”.