Women Pilots in India: A Soaring Increase in Numbers
The aviation sector in India has witnessed a significant surge in the number of women pilots, marking a notable milestone in the country’s aviation history.
Breaking Barriers: Women in Aviation
In 2023, out of the total 1622 commercial pilot licenses (CPLs) issued, 294 were granted to women, accounting for 18% of the total CPLs. This represents a notable 22% increase compared to the 240 CPLs issued to women in 2022, indicating steady progress in this area. Furthermore, female pilots currently comprise approximately 14% of the flight crew strength in various Indian scheduled and non-scheduled operators.
Government Initiatives: Enhancing Pilot Training
The Ministry of Civil Aviation actively promotes Commercial Pilot Licenses. It collaborates with organizations to boost pilot numbers.
Initially, they awarded letters for new Flying Training Organizations (FTOs). In the first phase, nine FTOs will open at five airports: Belagavi, Jalgaon, Kalaburagi, Khajuraho, and Lilabari.
Subsequently, six more FTOs will launch in the second phase. These will be located at Bhavnagar, Hubballi, Kadapa, Kishangarh, and Salem airports. Moreover, the Ministry aims to enhance pilot diversity. Specifically, it focuses on increasing Women Pilots in India. The new FTOs provide training opportunities for aspiring pilots. Consequently, more women can pursue Commercial Pilot Licenses conveniently.
Promoting Gender Diversity in Aviation
The Ministry of Civil Aviation actively promotes Commercial Pilot Licenses. It collaborates with organizations to boost pilot numbers.
Initially, they awarded letters for new Flying Training Organizations (FTOs). In the first phase, nine FTOs will open at five airports: Belagavi, Jalgaon, Kalaburagi, Khajuraho, and Lilabari. Subsequently, six more FTOs will launch in the second phase. These will be located at Bhavnagar, Hubballi, Kadapa, Kishangarh, and Salem airports.
Moreover, the Ministry aims to enhance pilot diversity. Specifically, it focuses on increasing Women Pilots in India. The new FTOs provide training opportunities for aspiring pilots. Consequently, more women can pursue Commercial Pilot Licenses conveniently.
Inspiring Young Minds
These initiatives highlight the government’s commitment to promoting gender diversity and creating opportunities for women in the aviation sector. By inspiring young minds, especially girls, to pursue careers in aviation, India can increase the number of women pilots and create a more inclusive and diverse aviation industry. Moreover, this will lead to a more balanced and equitable representation of women in the sector.
A Commitment to Diversity
In conclusion, the significant increase in the number of women pilots in India is a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting gender diversity in the aviation sector. As the aviation industry continues to grow, it is essential to create opportunities for women to pursue careers in aviation, thereby ensuring a more diverse and inclusive industry. This information was shared by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), in a written response to a question posed in the Rajya Sabha today.