Women in Aviation: Turning Data into Action

At Elevate the Line, we believe that meaningful change starts with listening. Understanding the experiences of women across aviation is essential if we want to create a profession that attracts, supports and retains talented people for generations to come.

That is why we are pleased to support the ongoing work initiated by Elevate(her) Aviation, whose comprehensive UK survey in 2025 established an important baseline of women's experiences across the aviation industry. Using the same questionnaire, a German version of the survey is now underway, allowing valuable international comparisons while highlighting country-specific challenges. 

What did the 2025 UK survey reveal?

The original Elevate(her) survey identified two overarching challenges:

• Encouraging more women to enter aviation

• Retaining women who have already built careers within the industry

Several recurring themes emerged from the responses:

Language matters

Many participants reported that aviation still uses predominantly masculine terminology in conversations, meetings and written material. More than 80% of respondents stated they frequently encounter masculine language, while gender-neutral terminology was considered highly important for creating an inclusive environment. 

Facilities and equipment

The survey also highlighted practical barriers that many women continue to face, including insufficient sanitary facilities, limited support regarding women's health, and equipment originally designed around male body dimensions.

The dedicated follow-up study on facilities and equipment reinforced these findings, identifying issues such as:

• ill-fitting uniforms and PPE,

• insufficient availability of aircraft seat cushions for smaller pilots,

• lack of female-specific safety equipment,

• inadequate sanitary facilities in many aviation workplaces. 

Inclusion, sexism and career progression

A significant proportion of respondents reported experiencing or witnessing sexism or gender discrimination during their careers. Many also expressed low confidence in reporting such incidents. 

Another major theme concerned retention. Many women felt that maternity, childcare responsibilities and limited flexible working opportunities negatively affect career progression. The survey concludes that improving retention is just as important as attracting new women into aviation. 

Why a German survey?

To better understand whether similar patterns exist in Germany, the identical questionnaire has now been launched for women working throughout the German aviation industry.

By using the same methodology, the results can later be compared internationally while identifying challenges that may be unique to Germany. The more women participate, the more meaningful and representative the results will become.

Our shared goal is not simply to collect statistics—it is to provide evidence that supports constructive discussions, informed decision-making and practical improvements throughout aviation.

Are you a woman working in aviation in Germany?

If you currently work or are training in any area of aviation in Germany, we invite you to participate.

The survey includes women from across the industry, including:

• Pilots

• Cabin Crew

• Air Traffic Controllers

• Engineers and Maintenance

• Flight Instructors

• Dispatch and Operations

• Airport Operations

• Administrative and Technical Aviation Roles

The survey closes at the end of August 2026.

Your experience matters. Every completed questionnaire helps create a clearer picture of today's aviation environment and contributes to shaping tomorrow's.

Scan the QR code below to participate

Thank you for helping us build an aviation community where everyone can develop, contribute and thrive. Together, we can ensure that future discussions are driven not only by opinions, but by data.