In a remarkable initiative aimed at inspiring young women, Delta Air Lines recently completed its fifth WING (Women Inspiring our Next Generation) flight, transporting 120 girls on an all-female crew to NASA in Houston. This event, held on International Girls in Aviation Day, serves as a powerful statement about the potential for women in aviation, showcasing that a career in this field is not only attainable but also encouraged.
The flight, which carried girls aged 12 to 18 from Salt Lake City, was meticulously planned and executed by women at every level—from the pilots in the cockpit to the ramp agents and gate staff on the ground. Delta’s mission, as stated on their website, is to “close the gender gap in aviation,” and this flight exemplifies their commitment to this cause.
The WING Flight Initiative
Launched in 2015, the WING Flight initiative aims to diversify the male-dominated aviation industry while exposing young girls to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers. To date, over 600 girls have participated, learning from women who have forged successful careers in aviation. “We know representation matters,” stated Lisa Carter, a leader in Delta’s pilot development program. “We believe that to become something, you need to see someone who looks like you doing it.”
Experiencing NASA
After landing in Houston, the girls enjoyed a tour of NASA facilities and had the opportunity to engage with Jeanette Mendez, an astronaut and aerospace engineer. “Before today, I thought a career in aviation was out of reach. Now I feel empowered to pursue it,” said 17-year-old Mia Thompson, a senior at a local high school.
For many participants, this was their first flight experience, making it all the more special as they explored the aviation field. Delta partnered with schools that focus on STEM and aviation programs to identify and select these aspiring future aviators.
Delta’s Commitment to Gender Equality
Delta has long championed gender equality within its workforce, achieving 100 percent pay parity in frontline roles in 2019. Moreover, the airline has been recognized as a “Best Workplace for Women” by both Great Place To Work and Fortune for three consecutive years. Their forward-looking hiring strategy aims to cultivate talent among young women, addressing disparities and fostering growth within the organization.
Additional Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, Delta’s WING Flight is a powerful initiative that not only showcases the possibilities for women in aviation but also actively works to inspire the next generation of female aviators. By providing experiential learning opportunities and mentorship, Delta is paving the way for young girls to envision themselves in roles that have historically been underrepresented.