To mark International Women’s Day, 10 of Qantas and Jetstar’s popular domestic routes spanning 22 flights were operated by more than 50 female crew last week.
The series of flights culminated with nine flights that took off on International Women’s Day, Sunday 8 March. The first, a Jetstar service from Melbourne to the Gold Coast, took off in the morning, followed by a range of QantasLink regional services including Tamworth to Sydney, Coffs Harbour to Melbourne and Sydney to Wagga Wagga.
QantasLink Captain Tomoko Sakurai Dahlstrom spoke at Qantas’ NextGen Aviators Career Day and operated several of the International Women’s Day flights this week.
“Up in the air, our International Women’s Day flights not only celebrate those who paved the path for us to fly today but show the crew of tomorrow what’s possible. I’m proud to share what it’s like to work in aviation today alongside supportive, thriving and talented women. Our hope is to see as many of the students at our career days in a hanger, flight deck or cabin one day.”
Jetstar Eastern Regional Flying Manager Captain Narelle Coooper said the flights showcase the depth of talent across the airline’s workforce.
“These flights are a chance to put some of our best people front and centre. When young women and girls see women leading in the flight deck, in the operations centre and on the ground, it sends a powerful message – these careers are for you too.”
Group Chief People Officer Catherine Walsh said “We recognise there’s still work to do across the aviation industry. We’re committed to championing change for the long haul by improving gender representation in our teams today, while strengthening a diverse talent pipeline for tomorrow. A more balanced workforce makes us a better airline, and we’re determined to create a future where anyone can see themselves working, growing, and thriving in this dynamic and rewarding industry.”
Qantas Group gender equality initiatives
The Qantas Group is continuing its work to improve gender balance. While progress is being made, there is still more to do. Some key initiatives are:
- The Qantas Group’s Women in Leadership Programe equips women to move into senior roles through workshops, coaching and networking. Women now make up 40.7 per cent of senior roles across the Qantas Group. The Qantas Board is 50 per cent female, and the senior executive team comprises seven women and five men.
- The Female Pilot Council focuses on enhancing the experience of female pilots throughout key life stages, including professional development during pregnancy and return-to-work support after parental leave.
- Advocacy for gender inclusion through key relationships with Champions of Change (as a founding member), IATA, Chief Executive Women, Parents at Work and National Association of Women in Operations.
Photo Source: Qantas
