30% of Women Pilots Report Gender Discrimination, Resulting in Reduced Trainer Numbers

Based on insights from 707 pilots and trainers, this eye-opening study exposes serious weaknesses in how aviation recruits, develops, and retains instructors—just as trainer shortages reach critical levels. Conducted by Durbin, Munns, Warren, and Edwards in collaboration with the University of the West of England and the Royal Aeronautical Society, the research delivers urgent findings the industry can no longer afford to ignore. 

The conversation continued during a powerful Women in Aviation Training (WiAT) roundtable held at the 2025 European Airline Training Symposium (EATS) in Cascais. The full report is ready for you to download below.

The headline findings of this report:

• 30% of women and 10% of men report experiencing gender-based discrimination
• 72% of male pilots would apply for training roles vs. only 49% of women
• Building a sustainable trainer pipeline requires structural, financial, and cultural change, supported by flexible working—including part-time roles

The instructor shortage isn't isolated to just pilot training alone, its affecting other training capacities: “There is a shortage of people to train pilots, and potentially the same issue is emerging for maintenance (mechanic) trainers.” - WiAT Roundtable.

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

This problem is universal; and it's not going away unless we take actionable steps to aim for a better future.

If you’re ready to explore practical, evidence-based ways to increase gender diversity in aviation training, this report highlights:

• How trainers are recruited and selected
• The key skills of effective trainers
• What motivates individuals to become trainers
• How to strengthen the trainer pipeline for the future

Finish reading the report not only armed with data, but with the ability to do something about it. Learn the essential skills required to become an effective trainer and amplify your training program. You will be able to identify, recruit, and motivate your future training pipeline —ensuring the right people are selected and remain engaged and inspired for the long term.

Feedback consistently suggested that the best instructors were those who showed respect, mentored well, and communicated effectively — qualities often attributed to female captains." - WiAT Roundtable

 

This report goes beyond technical skills:

"We also found that key skills for effective trainers extend beyond technical proficiency, focusing on empathy, communication, professionalism, and a trainee-centred approach aligned with Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) principles." - WiAT Roundtable.

These invaluable discussions are no longer limited to a live event—they’re now available to guide your training programs anytime.

The research is in -- let's do something about it. Download your copy of the WiAT Report now to begin making real, insightful changes for your training organization.

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