On Thursday 22nd February, the Air League and the British Gliding Association jointly hosted the Inclusivity in Aviation Reception, held at the House of Commons, Westminster. The event, generously sponsored by the University of West London, Lockheed Martin and Draken Europe and supported by Steve Baker MP and Mark Garnier MP, brought together over 200 Air League Members and representatives from across aviation, with the aim of promoting inclusivity within the industry.
Featuring a networking reception, questionnaire, and speeches from industry representatives, the Reception encouraged positive action to join the work undertaken at grass roots with the career pipeline to make a career in aviation possible for anyone. British Airways’ Captain Suzanne Morgan and Draken’s Sophie Lowton gave speeches on the work being done by organisations in aviation, and how more can be done to improve social mobility and accessibility for all.
A highlight of the evening was the inspirational talk from disabled pilot Charlotte Storey who spoke about her journey into aviation and overcoming barriers and adversity to achieve success.
The Inclusivity in Aviation Reception also saw the launch of the Air League’s Inclusivity Roadmap, in partnership with the Department for Transport. The Roadmap covers six main aims:
- Stating the intent to be more diverse and inclusive.
- Programme to increase career entry opportunities.
- An adaptable, equitable workplace.
- Opportunity to engage business leaders.
- Facilitating learning opportunities.
- Recognition of colleagues’ achievements.
On the evening, over 200 attendees were asked to complete a poll on the inclusivity of the industry and what else can be done to improve accessibility for all. We’re delighted to be able to share the results with you.
The Air League has a diverse range of beneficiaries to its annual Scholarship programme. In 2023, one in three Scholars were from an ethnic or minority background. The Air League’s work across the country focuses on promoting aviation as a potential career pathway to those who would not otherwise consider it. Over 100 Scholarships are awarded each year to those over the age of 14, with no upper age limit. The largest barriers to careers in aviation currently is the financial barrier: the Air League has provided over £2m worth of funding to beneficiaries across the UK over the past decade. Our Scholarship programme is currently open to applications and we encourage anyone and everyone to apply. The Air League focuses on promoting its schemes to those who otherwise might not get this opportunity: from disadvantaged backgrounds or demographics who may not otherwise had the aviation industry promoted to them as a career pathway. By offering our Scholarship programme, we’re lessening the financial barrier for young people following their desired career path in aviation.
The Air League would like to thank the British Gliding Association, the University of West London, Lockheed Martin and Draken Europe, alongside all attendees, for their support in our aim to Change Lives Through Aviation.
