Girls airline captain in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed great development in the field of women’s empowerment, which has led to tangible achievements in various fields, most notably the field of aviation.

The role of women as airline captains in Saudi Arabia is considered a bold and pioneering step that reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting gender equality and encouraging women to participate effectively in all sectors.

History and women in Saudi aviation

The beginning of Saudi women entering the field of aviation dates back to a relatively recent history, but it has witnessed rapid and influential developments. A few decades ago, it was difficult to imagine Saudi women working as pilots, as social traditions and cultural concepts limited women’s involvement in many fields, especially those that required travel and technical challenges such as aviation.

However, things began to change significantly with increasing awareness of the importance of empowering women and enhancing their role in comprehensive development. These changes came in the context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which placed women's empowerment as one of its most important goals, and included legislative reforms aimed at removing obstacles facing Saudi women in various fields.

In this context, recent years have witnessed numerous government initiatives to support the education and training of women in various fields, including aviation.

Many academic and training institutions have begun to accept women into their programs, giving them the opportunity to gain the necessary skills and work as professional pilots.

These positive steps have become a starting point for many Saudi women to achieve their dreams and fly in the skies of aviation, thus recording new chapters in the history of Saudi women.

The historical development of the role of women in aviation

Saudi women began enrolling in aviation courses and training abroad before they had the opportunity to train and work within the Kingdom. The last decade in particular has witnessed a qualitative leap in the number of women who obtained aviation licenses and began working as civilian and military pilots.

The role of the Saudi government in empowering women

The Saudi government has played a vital and influential role in supporting and empowering women over the past decades. These efforts began in earnest in the 1970s and 1980s, when the government began adopting policies aimed at improving women's status in society and enabling them to obtain education and participate in the labor market.

Initially, the government focused on providing educational opportunities for girls, which led to increased girls' enrollment rates in schools and universities. This step served as a cornerstone for building a new generation of educated women who are able to participate effectively in economic and social development.

In the 1990s, the Saudi government began taking bolder steps to empower women, including opening new areas of work that had previously been closed to women. Legislation has been issued aimed at strengthening women's rights in the workplace and providing a safe and equal work environment.

With the entry of the new millennium, women's empowerment efforts accelerated with the formation of national committees and strategies aimed at increasing women's participation in various sectors. These policies were part of the Kingdom's vision to modernize society and achieve sustainable development.

Vision 2030 came to enhance these efforts in a greater and more comprehensive way, as it placed women’s empowerment as one of its most important goals. The vision included specific programs and initiatives aimed at raising the rate of women’s participation in the workforce and supporting them to reach leadership positions.

Recent years have also witnessed the issuance of many legislations that facilitate Saudi women’s full participation in economic and social life, removing many of the traditional barriers that limited their role in society.

Pioneering women in Saudi aviation

There are many Saudi women who have emerged in the field of aviation and achieved inspiring successes. These pioneers have left a clear mark and become role models for the new generation of ambitious women. Among these women:

Yasmine Al-Maimani:

Yasmine Al-Maimani is the first Saudi woman to obtain a commercial aviation license in 2013. She went through a long and arduous journey to achieve her dream of becoming a pilot, as she was forced to travel to the United States to train and obtain her license. Yasmine was an example of persistence and determination, and she was able to break the social and cultural barriers that prevented Saudi women from entering this field.

Hanadi Al Hindi:

Hanadi Al-Hindi is the first Saudi woman to officially fly a plane in the Kingdom. She obtained her commercial aviation license in Jordan and began her work with Kingdom Holding Company in 2014. Hanadi served as a role model for Saudi women capable of excelling in fields that were traditionally the preserve of men.

These pioneers contributed to changing the stereotyped image of Saudi women and proved that they are capable of achieving great achievements in fields that were considered out of reach. Their success is evidence of the major social transformations taking place in the Kingdom, and the continuous progress towards empowering women in all fields.

Success stories of Saudi women in aviation are full of challenges and perseverance. Each story tells us how these women overcame difficulties and excelled in a field that had long been considered the preserve of men.

Challenges faced by women in aviation

Saudi women in aviation faced many social and cultural challenges that started at home and extended to the entire community.

inside the house

Initially, women had to confront traditional expectations that expected them to remain in specific roles within the home. There was resistance from some family members towards the idea of ​​a woman working as a pilot, which they considered a profession that required constant travel and absence from home for long periods. These social expectations placed additional pressures on women wishing to enter the aviation field.

On the street and in society

When a woman left home and began to pursue her aviation ambitions, she faced looks of suspicion and criticism from the wider society. Social norms favored traditional roles for women, making it difficult for many to dare to break stereotypes. Challenges in the street and society include discrimination and negative comments that may affect self-confidence and the moral support required to succeed in a profession that requires a lot of courage and determination.

Community support

Despite these challenges, things are gradually starting to change with growing community awareness and support. As time has progressed, there has been a greater understanding of the importance of women's roles in all fields, including aviation. Increased support from the community, as well as awareness-raising initiatives, has helped many women overcome social and cultural barriers.

Professional and technical challenges

In addition to social challenges, women in aviation faced significant professional and technical challenges. The aviation profession requires a high level of training and specialization, which requires a lot of time, effort and financial costs.

It was difficult for Saudi women to obtain the necessary training opportunities, both inside and outside the Kingdom.

There was a lack of supporting infrastructure for women in aviation. There were not sufficient programs to train women, and academic and training institutions did not accommodate a sufficient number of women wishing to enter this field.

In addition, professional trainers and modern training equipment were needed to meet international standards.

Government programs and initiatives to support female aviation captains

Civil Aviation Authority initiatives

The Civil Aviation Authority played a prominent role in supporting Saudi women in this field by launching programs and initiatives aimed at training and qualifying women to work as pilots. The necessary support was also provided to them to effectively engage in the labor market.

Support provided by Saudi Airlines

Saudi Airlines has provided many training programs for women, in addition to providing a supportive work environment that enables them to practice their profession efficiently and professionally. These efforts were part of the company's commitment to supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

Aviation major: scientific or literary in Saudi Arabia?

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, aviation is considered a scientific major. This field requires a strong background in science and mathematics, due to the technical and complex nature of aviation study and training. There are a number of reasons why aviation is a scientific discipline:

1. Academic requirements

• Mathematics: Aviation requires a good understanding of mathematics, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
• Physics: Physics is fundamental to understanding aerodynamics and the principles of flight.
• Chemistry: Sometimes necessary to understand fuels, lubricants and composites used in aircraft.

2. Practical training

• Modern Technologies: Pilots use modern technologies such as air navigation systems and advanced computers.
• Simulator Training: Practical training includes the use of flight simulators that require a high technical understanding.

3. Required scientific skills

• Data Analysis: Pilots need the ability to analyze weather and navigation data.
• Problem Solving: Aviation requires technical and scientific problem-solving skills in emergency situations.

Qualifications required to study aviation

high school

• Scientific Track: Students wishing to enter the aviation field must choose the scientific track in secondary education. This includes studying subjects such as advanced mathematics, physics and chemistry.
• English: Since most aviation courseware and reference books are in English, proficiency in English is essential.

University education and specialized training

• Bachelor of Aviation Science: After completing secondary education, students can enroll in bachelor's programs in aviation science or related disciplines at recognized universities and colleges.
• Aviation academies: Specialized academies provide intensive training to obtain a pilot's license, which requires passing rigorous theoretical and practical tests.

Steps towards obtaining a flight certificate

1. Academic achievement in high school: successfully completing the academic path.
2. Enrolling in an aviation study program: either at a university or an aviation academy.
3. Passing theoretical and practical training: obtaining the necessary flight hours and simulator training.
4. Obtaining a license: Passing the necessary tests to obtain a pilot’s license.

Places to obtain a flight certificate for women in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, there are many academic and training institutions that provide aviation training programs and certificates for women. These institutions include:

1. Oxford Aviation Academy

• Location: Riyadh, Dammam.
• Programs: Oxford Aviation Academy offers various training programs including civil aviation training and offering a commercial pilot licence. This academy is considered one of the most prominent institutions that supports women in entering the aviation field.

2. Prince Sultan Academy of Aviation Sciences

• Location: Jeddah.
• Programs: The academy offers specialized programs in aviation sciences, including training for pilots and aeronautical engineers. The academy is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to provide advanced and comprehensive training.

3. King Abdulaziz University

• Location: Jeddah.
• Programs: The College of Aviation Sciences at King Abdulaziz University offers study programs in the field of aviation, including a bachelor’s degree in aviation sciences and aviation management. The university provides equal opportunities for women to enroll in these programmes.

4. Saudi Academy of Civil Aviation

• Location: Jeddah.
• Programs: The academy focuses on training pilots and air traffic controllers. It offers training programs and certificates accredited by the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority, which are available to women wishing to enter this field.

5. College of Aviation at Prince Sultan University

• Location: Riyadh.
• Programs: The College of Aviation at Prince Sultan University offers study programs in aeronautical engineering and aviation management, in addition to pilot training programs. The university is considered one of the leading institutions that support aviation education and training for women.

6. International training programs

• Location: Outside the Kingdom.
• Programs: Saudi women can also obtain aviation training and certificates from recognized international institutions, such as aviation academies in the United States and Europe. These certificates are recognized in Saudi Arabia and are considered complementary to local training.

Steps to obtain a flight certificate

1. Choosing the appropriate program: Determine whether the goal is to obtain a commercial aviation license or university study in the field of aviation science.
2. Application: Submit applications to enroll in academic or training programs at selected institutions.
3. Theoretical training: includes studying theoretical subjects related to aviation, such as air laws and navigation.
4. Practical training: includes practical flying hours under the supervision of certified instructors.
5. Exams: Passing theoretical and practical exams to obtain the required certificate or license.

The Saudi government provides significant support to women wishing to enter the aviation field through scholarship programs and specialized training initiatives. This support can be used to obtain high-quality education and training.

Many options are available for women in Saudi Arabia to obtain a aviation certificate, whether through prestigious local institutions or recognized international programs.

This diversity of opportunities enhances women's empowerment and allows them to achieve their dreams in aviation.

The difference between civil and military aviation captains

The job of a civil aviation captain requires obtaining a commercial aviation license and completing certain flying hours. Female civilian pilots are trained to operate commercial flights and ensure passenger safety.

As for the military aviation captain, he needs more rigorous and specialized training in dealing with military aircraft and combat missions. This requires a high level of physical and mental fitness to face difficult circumstances and emergency situations.

The daily work of an airline captain in Saudi Arabia

The work day of a Saudi Airlines captain includes many daily tasks that begin with planning the flight and ensuring the aircraft’s readiness, through monitoring the weather conditions and communicating with the work team, and ending with executing the flight safely.

The challenges facing a flight captain in Saudi Arabia include dealing with changing weather conditions and ensuring the safety of passengers and the aircraft. However, the work provides great opportunities for professional development and gaining new experiences.

Balancing personal and professional lives is a challenge, but many airline captains achieve this balance by managing time effectively and relying on family support.

How does a flight captain handle personal and professional life?

Aviation captains rely on good planning and constant communication with the family to maintain this balance. Providing psychological and material support from family and friends plays a major role in success in this aspect.

The future vision of women in Saudi aviation

Future plans and expectations

Future expectations indicate an increase in the number of women who will work in the aviation field in the Kingdom, thanks to government initiatives and continued support from private companies. Future plans aim to achieve greater gender balance in this vital sector.

The role of society in supporting women in aviation

The community plays a crucial role in supporting women in aviation by changing the traditional view and encouraging girls to follow their dreams in this field. Social support is considered one of the most important factors that help women succeed and achieve their ambitions.

Job opportunities for female airline captain graduates in Saudi Arabia

There are many career opportunities available for female airline captain graduates in Saudi Arabia, as they can join multiple institutions and companies within the aviation sector. These opportunities reflect the significant progress the Kingdom has achieved in empowering and supporting women in various fields, including aviation. Here are some of the most prominent career opportunities available:

1. Saudi Airlines

• Role: Civilian pilot.
• Description: Female pilots operate commercial aircraft belonging to Saudi Airlines, and carry out national and international flights.

2. Flynas Company

• Role: Civilian pilot.
• Description: Flynas offers unique opportunities for Saudi female pilots to work on its domestic and international routes. They can apply for airline captain or co-pilot positions.

3. Flyadeal

• Role: Civilian pilot.
• Description: Flyadeal is always looking for talented pilots and provides opportunities for Saudi women to work on its low-cost flights inside and outside the Kingdom.

4. Military aviation

• Role: Military pilot.
• Description: The Royal Saudi Air Force provides opportunities for women to work as military pilots after passing the necessary military training. Missions include combat flying and reconnaissance.

5. Civil Aviation Authority

• Role: Aviation Safety Reviewer.
• Description: Women with a pilot certificate can work for the Civil Aviation Authority as aviation safety reviewers, where they inspect aircraft and ensure compliance with safety standards.

6. Academies and aviation schools

• Role: Flight instructor.
• Description: After gaining sufficient experience, Saudi female pilots can work as flight instructors in local and international academies, such as the Oxford Aviation Academy and the Prince Sultan Academy.

7. Private airlines

• Role: Private jet pilot.
• Description: Private companies and large companies that own private aircraft offer opportunities to work as pilots to carry out private and VIP flights.

8. Agricultural aviation

• Role: Agricultural spray pilot.
• Description: This role involves flying aircraft used to spray agricultural crops with pesticides and fertilizers, and is a field open to women who want to work in agricultural aviation.

9. Medical aviation

• Role: Medical evacuation pilot.
• Description: This job includes flying aircraft equipped to transport patients and injured people in emergency situations, and it is considered one of the vital fields that require qualified pilots.

10. Tourist aviation

• Role: Tour pilot.
• Description: Female pilots can work in tourist airline companies that provide air tours of tourist sites and important landmarks within the Kingdom.

Professional development and continuing courses

To ensure professional advancement, female graduate pilots must continue to develop their skills through ongoing training courses and obtaining additional licenses and certifications. This includes:

• Simulation courses: to improve skills in simulated environments.
• Training on new aircraft: to expand the range of aircraft they can fly.
• Emergency training: to enhance readiness to deal with unexpected situations.

In conclusion, we say this

The Saudi woman aviation captain is a living example of success and challenge. Supporting and empowering women in all fields, including aviation, is not just a step towards equality, but rather a necessity for achieving comprehensive and sustainable development in the Kingdom. The future of women in Saudi aviation looks promising, and we should all support these efforts and contribute to achieving an advanced and comprehensive vision.