The South African Civil Aviation Authoritys (SACAA) ambitious goals for gender representation in the aviation industry will not be easily achieved, say industry leaders.
Aviation experts gathered to discuss the progress and barriers to entry for women in the aviation industry at the National Aviation Gender Summit held in Durban under the auspices of the CAA.
Poppy Khoza , Director of the CAA, reiterated the SACAAs commitment to achieving 50/50 gender representation in the aviation sector by 2030.
Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa said that this can only be accomplished through commitment to achieving objectives and strategic planning. The sector continues to be male-dominated, despite progress having been made.
In South Africa, out of the 25 830 licensed personnel at the end of July 2024, only 5 067 are female. This includes pilots, engineers, air traffic officers and cabin crew. Of course, we must celebrate this improvement, [of] almost 20% of women occupying technical roles in the industry, he said.
