WIA ME conference charts path toward full empowerment
The Women in Aviation – Middle East (WIA ME) conference at Airport Show 2025 showcased the future of aviation as more inclusive and diverse, with women ascending to cockpits and boardrooms. The event attracted regional and international participation, serving as a platform to share experiences and celebrate female achievements in a competitive and rapidly evolving global industry.
In his keynote speech, Sheikh Salem Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Ras Al Khaimah, praised the UAE's leadership for placing women's empowerment at the heart of national development strategies.
'Today, Emirati women hold senior positions, contribute to aircraft engineering and operations management, and represent 42% of the aviation workforce—an unprecedented achievement in the region,' he said.
Sultan: From Representation to Real Influence
Mervat Sultan, Founder and President of the Middle East Chapter of Women in Aviation International, delivered an engaging address that moved the audience beyond recognition and into vision-building:
'Today's celebration is not only about what has been achieved, but about what lies ahead—ambitions, challenges, and new paths. We're not just asking for representation; we're demanding meaningful participation—in innovation, in decision-making, in labs, cockpits, and boardrooms.'
She stressed that progress is not measured solely by numbers, but by community depth and impact:
'Slow progress is sometimes the most enduring. Last year, we had about 250 participants. This year, attendance has more than doubled—not just in the hall, but throughout the professional ecosystem. Government and private sector support confirms we're on the right track.'
Training Opportunities and Targeted Support
Sultan announced the launch of a fully funded EASA ATPL scholarship, along with free aviation fundamentals training and a specialised program on emotional intelligence for pilots, in collaboration with Airman Ground.
'These initiatives respond to real market needs and aspirations that can no longer be postponed,' she said.
When asked about this year's award winners, Sultan noted:
'We maintain the same award categories every year, but 2025 was especially inspiring. Captain Samran Omran, the first Arab woman to fly transatlantic routes from Jordan to the US in the 1980s, is a symbol of persistence. We also honored figures like Dr Nadine Itani, a trusted aviation expert for global media, and institutions such as the International Aviation Academy and Al Jazeera Aviation Club in Ras Al Khaimah—clear signs that meaningful change is happening.'
Her message to aspiring women in the industry emphasised professionalism above all:
'In aviation, dreams alone are not enough. Success relies on respecting time and structure. A two-minute delay doesn't just affect your flight—it affects dozens behind you. Aviation teaches you that safety and discipline are everything.'
Honoring Women Who Leave a Lasting Impact
The conference concluded with a celebration honoring Dr Suaad Al Shamsi with the Women in Aviation Leadership Award, Aya Sader with the Innovation Award, and Dr Nadine Itani with the title of "Most Influential Woman in Aviation."
Khalifa University and Al Jazeera Aviation Club were also recognised for their significant contributions to training and institutional empowerment.
In her final remarks, Mervat Sultan delivered a powerful call to action:
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