We Have Earned Our Place!

Lately, there has been a troubling narrative in the aviation industry. With recent aircraft accidents and President Trump’s stance against diversity hiring, some people have taken it as an opportunity to attack women in aviation, suggesting that we are less qualified, that we don’t belong, that diversity efforts somehow weaken the industry.

Let’s set the record straight.

I Am Not Here to Fill a Quota, I Am Here Because I Earned it!

For decades, women in aviation have fought to break through barriers. We have trained, studied, and worked just as hard, if not harder, than our male counterparts. We have faced higher levels of scrutiny, been held to different standards, and had to prove our skills repeatedly just to gain the same recognition. And yet, when a woman steps into a cockpit, some still question whether she truly belongs.

The idea that diversity hiring results in “less qualified” pilots is a false narrative. It ignores the reality that aviation has always demanded the highest level of training, skill, and professionalism. No one gets handed a set of wings, they are earned through rigorous education, thousands of hours of experience, and an unwavering commitment to safety.

Diversity in Aviation Is About Opportunity, Not Handouts

The real problem is not diversity hiring, it’s the assumption that women and minorities are being given opportunities they don’t deserve. The truth is, for years, systemic barriers have prevented talented individuals from even having a fair shot at a career in aviation. Initiatives to improve diversity aren’t about lowering standards; they’re about removing unnecessary roadblocks so that the best candidates, regardless of gender, race, or background, can rise to the top.

And that’s why a target-based approach is far better than a quota system. I’ve said this all along.

A Target vs. A Quota

A quota forces a fixed number of hires, which can lead to resentment and the harmful perception that someone got the job just to “tick a box.” In contrast, a target-based system works to increase diversity organically by ensuring equal access, mentorship, and opportunities, without compromising merit.

If we focus on removing barriers, rather than just meeting numbers, diversity will naturally follow……because talent is everywhere. It just needs a fair chance.

I Stand with My Sisters……..And We Are Not Going Anywhere!

Women in the aviation industry have spent years proving our capabilities, our resilience, and our passion for this industry. We will not allow our hard work to be erased by those who seek to discredit us. We will continue to fly, to lead, and to inspire the next generation.

To all my Sisters in aviation: you belong here. You have earned your place. And no amount of noise will change that.

Let them talk. We’ll be too busy flying!