British Airways (BA/BAW) has flown a special all-female flight this week which took 61 women to pull off.
BA1484 from Heathrow to Glasgow on Monday brought together women in all aspects of aviation including baggage handlers, pilots and cabin crew, flight managers, loaders and push back teams, security, check-in and airport teams. The airline even drafted in two girls who were on work experience in the terminal to handle the flight.
British Airways Ramp Manager, Joanne Kershaw was one of the women involved and she said: “So many people think the jobs on the ramp, under the wings of aircraft, are just for men. I loved being part of a team of women at the top of their game, working all together for the first time on one flight, to get it ready and away on time for our customers.”
The pilot for the day, Captain Julie Levy, said: “I`m incredibly proud to have been a part of the team on our all-female flight.
“As a mum of two teenage daughters, I think it’s crucial that we grab every opportunity we can to inspire the next generation. There wasn’t any visibility of female pilots when I was growing up, so I think events like this are important to help show the range of different careers that are available to women. I’m proud to be part of an organisation doing something about that.”
TV Presenter and Pilot, Carol Vorderman was also on the flight, Carol said: “What an incredible day, I loved getting a sneak peek behind-the-scenes at British Airways and meeting all the amazing women who, like me, have such a passion for encouraging more young women into aviation. Spending the day with the students was great fun, they’re all so enthusiastic and they’ve got a wonderful future ahead of them. The world, or plane, is theirs for the taking! ”