Date of Submission

Spring 2024

Academic Program

Economics

Project Advisor 1

Aniruddha Mitra

Abstract/Artist's Statement

The aviation sector, essential to global economics and international trade, has traditionally been dominated by men, with fundamental barriers preventing women from entry and career progression. This study examines the persistent underrepresentation of women in the aviation workforce, especially in pilot positions, and aims to identify the root causes of this gender disparity. The research investigates the institutional barriers, personal experiences, and problems women face in the aviation industry (commercial and Air Force) through qualitative interviews with women and men working or studying in the field. The main obstacles are listed as follows: persistent gender stereotypes, pregnancy discrimination, a lack of female role models and mentors, work-life balance barriers for individuals, financial barriers, and the unsuitability of military equipment for women. The results emphasize the necessity of the aviation sector making strategic reforms to create a more welcoming environment that encourages and supports women's careers in the field, eventually increasing efficiency and innovation.

Open Access Agreement

Open Access

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

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