With only one in 10 Aer Lingus pilots female, the airline has launched a bid to get more women on board.
It has re-opened its Future Pilot Training scheme, but the application rate among women for the past two years was down at around 7 per cent.
The formerly state-owned airline appointed Red C to conduct research into why applications among women are so low.
Speaking about the findings, Davina Pratt, Director of Operations at Aer Lingus said: “This survey tells us that we need to get out into the schools and colleges to promote flying as a career for women as it simply isn’t top of mind and isn’t being actively promoted to them as a career option currently.”
The survey of 500 adults showed that the role of a pilot was discussed 19% of males in schools and colleges compared to just 8% of females.
While 50% men are likely to be advised to go into a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) career compared to 31% of women.
The survey also showed that 19% of people are aware that the training scheme is fully funded by the company.
Davina added: “While it’s a great honour to have been the airline’s first and only female chief pilot, it would be great to see more women coming into the profession and reaching the same heights.”
The Aer Lingus Future Pilot Training Programme takes approximately 18 months to complete.
The closing date for applications is July 8.
