An Examination of Recent Female Graduates from a Collegiate Aviation Program and their Decisions to Become Professional Pilots

Abstract

Despite evidence of males and females having generally comparable abilities as pilots, very few women choose this career path. According to the Federal Aviation Administration database of aviators, approximately 7% of the total pilot population in the United States is female, and 5% of professional pilot ratings are held by women. These statistics have been relatively consistent for several decades. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of why females decide to become professional pilots. This is a continuation of the study investigated in Henneberry (2018). Findings and recommendations in that research included increasing the number of role models, outreach events, and educating girls about career possibilities in aviation. This study will feature semi-structured interviews with between five and ten women who, at the time of this study, are employed or have been previously employed as professional pilots. Participants are recent graduates from a collegiate aviation degree program. Interviews with the participants will inquire how they became interested in an aviation career and what factors played the most significant role in their decision-making process. These findings will be explored to examine methods used to attract future women pilots. The information obtained from this study may contribute to a further understanding of what factors are the most influential in the choice to enter aviation and how to increase the number of female pilots.

Authors

• Henneberry, Debra, Ed.D. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Lubner, Maxine, Ph.D. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Russo, Pete, Ph.D. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Female pilots
• career choice
• pilot supply
• Vocational Education