The airline pilot profession today is not representative of the diverse population it proudly serves. We are working to make sure the profession is accessible for all who are interested in a career on the flight deck.
The aviation industry faces a significant diversity gap. Women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups make up only a small fraction of professional pilots. This lack of diversity limits the talent pool and hinders the industry’s growth and future potential.
For example, women make up over 50% of the national workforce, yet only 6% of airline pilots are women. This underrepresentation extends to other aviation roles: women hold just 2% of airline mechanic positions, 4% of flight engineer roles, 5% of repair jobs, 26% of air traffic control positions, and 18% of flight dispatcher jobs.
Closing the diversity gap requires the collective effort of government, the airline industry, labor, and other key stakeholders. The bipartisan Promoting Women in the Aviation Workforce Act, part of the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act, marked a major step forward. This legislation established an FAA advisory board aimed at improving education pathways, training, and recruitment to encourage more women to enter aviation professions.
Pilot associations also play a key role in promoting diversity and inclusion. Organizations such as the National Gay Pilots Association, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, and Women in Aviation provide essential resources, including mentorship programs, that open doors for underrepresented groups.
We are committed to ensuring that everyone interested in a career in aviation has the opportunity to pursue it. Building a diverse, talented workforce is crucial to the future of the profession, and we work to remove barriers that prevent individuals from entering the field.
Anyone with a passion for aviation and the desire to fly can pursue a career as an airline pilot.
Five ALPA members share their unique experiences flying for different types of carriers.
Discover who’s hiring, how much pilots earn, and the types of piloting jobs available.
Learn about the qualifications and training pathways to becoming a professional pilot.
Financing your aviation education and training can be a challenge, but there are many scholarships available, including those specifically for diverse candidates.
