Number of pilot licences for women highest ever, but still less than 10%

The UK aviation regulator, The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says it has issued the highest ever number of flight crew licences to women but overall, they still only amount to less than 10% of licences issued.

Data shows that between 2019 and 2023 there was a 26% increase in applications from female pilots, 239 in 2019 up to 301 being issued in 2023 which is a significant gap to the number of male applicants. Overall 3752 licences were issued in 2023.

The number is brighter though when it is broken down to types of licence with the number of women acquiring a commercial licence up 43%.

Sharon Nicholson, Chairwoman of the British Women Pilots’ Association and UK Airprox Board Inspector at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “As a pilot, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the rise in female pilots over the years, the change in the industry makes it more accessible for young women.

“I actively encourage young females to consider flying as a career choice and it’s empowering to see so many unlocking the incredible possibilities of the aviation industry.”

During the Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter (WiAAC) event held at the Farnborough International Airshow UK Civil Aviation Authority’s Chair and Patron of the Charter, Sir Stephen Hillier highlighted the overall post-pandemic recovery in the number of licences issued.

During the event, Bronwyn Fraser, Secretary of the British Women Pilots’ Association and Sustainability Principal at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “Women pilots bring diverse perspectives and exceptional skills.

“But aviation is so much more than just flying. We have brilliant women engineers, air traffic controllers, and sustainability experts pushing the boundaries of innovation, developing new technologies and unlocking the full potential of our airspace. 

“We need more young women in aviation and must inspire the next generation to take flight and build an inclusive future for aviation.” 

250 licences for fixed-wing aircraft, (aeroplanes) were issued to women pilots in 2023 and another 25 for rotary wing, (helicopters.)

The Civil Aviation Authority says that it continues to support increasing the numbers of women in aviation through its STEM programme. The regulator also supports several initiatives to encourage girls to gain the skills they need to pursue careers in the industry such as The Girls Network, STEMettes and Tech She Can.