On 13 November 2025, The Air League’s UK CEO, Janine Hornsby MBA, was invited by The Air League of Monaco to speak at the Stelios Foundation Conference Hall Monaco.
A people-focused leader and advocate for inclusion, Janine delivered an inspiring address on one of the most pressing challenges facing the aviation sector today: the growing workforce shortage. Current data shows that nearly 30% of the aviation workforce is expected to retire within the next 5-10 years, while existing training programmes are meeting only 25% of the demand. This gap underscores the urgent need to inspire and prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.
Building Pathways into Aviation
The Air League has long championed accessibility and diversity in aviation. Between 2023 and 2025, the organisation achieved remarkable impact:
- Reached 32,000+ students across the UK
- Engaged with 720 schools
- Provided 540 students with their first flying experience
- Ensured 1 in 4 scholars were from ethnic minority backgrounds
- Supported 45% of scholars whose parents had not attended university
- Awarded 120+ scholarships annually
These achievements are made possible through partnerships and philanthropic support. Notably, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, President of The Air League of Monaco, has played a pivotal role in enabling scholarships for aspiring pilots and engineers who may otherwise lack access to aviation education. In recognition of his contributions, Sir Stelios was awarded The Air League Gold Medal during the evening.
Inspiring the Next Generation
While progress has been made, Janine emphasised that much work remains, particularly in encouraging greater participation from women and underrepresented groups. Both The Air League UK and The Air League of Monaco remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting initiatives that open pathways into aviation for all young people, ensuring a diverse and sustainable future for the industry.
A Night of Celebration and Commitment
The evening concluded with heartfelt thanks to Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, his dedicated team, and all who attended The Air League of Monaco dinner.
"Not only was this a highlight of my career but also a wonderful opportunity to share the vital work we are doing at The Air League to bridge the gap between education and careers in aviation, aerospace and space."
The message was clear: The future of aviation depends on who we inspire today. By investing in young people, fostering inclusion, and building opportunities, The Air League is helping secure a thriving future for aviation, aerospace, and space.
