This week, Qantas and Jetstar operate over 50 flights with all-female crews. These flights, planned and executed by over 250 women across the airlines, aim to inspire the next generation to consider careers in women in aviation, particularly in roles traditionally held by men. The routes span across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, leading up to International Women’s Day (March 8), 2025.
“Our hope is that young girls see these incredible women thriving in a technical career to give them the confidence to explore a role that will see them in a hangar, in the flight deck or running this airline in the future,” said Group Chief People Officer Catherine Walsh. Walsh explained that while progress occurs, it does not happen overnight. She stated that it begins in schools, and the group expands school outreach to promote female pilots as a career. They want to encourage girls to dream big and follow their interests in STEM.
The Qantas Group works to address the gender imbalance in the field. Men hold most pilot and engineer roles. The Qantas Group Pilot Academy doubled its scholarships, now 20, for female and First Nations students. This year, 20 percent of the apprentice intake at the Qantas Group Engineering Academy are women. Jetstar intends to have 35 percent of its 2025 engineering graduates be women. The group increases school outreach and work experience opportunities to attract more women. The employee-led Altitude Network supports gender equality.
Qantas and Jetstar Support for Women’s Day
“Jetstar is proud to have women in leadership positions across the airline, inspiring the next generation of female leaders,” said Jetstar’s Senior Manager of Flying Operations Captain Lizzie Archibald. She emphasized that the all-female crews highlight the talent and leadership women contribute. “Today’s flights are such an important moment to showcase to young girls and women all the different career paths aviation can offer, including pilots and engineers. From the flight deck and cabin, to the operations centre, engineering, ground staff, and corporate teams, this week is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women to the world of aviation every day.”
“It’s exciting to see incredible talent across Qantas and Jetstar come together in force so more flights than ever before can soar in recognition of International Women’s Day,” said Second Officer B787 Brigitte Howe. “These flights are a celebration of all the women who paved the path for the next generation and are ensuring today’s teams can thrive in a more diverse workplace. My hope is that young girls see these flights and are inspired to take up a career in female engineers working beside supportive, passionate, inclusive and seriously talented women.”
The first flight, a Jetstar service, departed from Adelaide to Sydney this morning. Other routes include Sydney to Hobart, Brisbane to Geraldton, and Tokyo to Fukuoka.
Qantas and Jetstar’s initiative shows women’s capabilities across roles in aviation. These efforts aim to inspire future generations and promote gender equality.
