The aviation sector, long dominated by men, is now undergoing a real—if gradual—shift. Data, corporate policies and individual journeys all point in the same direction: the feminization of the industry is underway, and it is now part of a lasting momentum.
A clear strategy to accelerate change
At Air France, women represent nearly half of the workforce. This near parity provides a strong foundation, but it does not yet reflect the reality across all roles. In technical positions, gaps remain significant: women account for only around 10% of pilots and 17% of maintenance staff. These figures are still low, but their progress is notable—they have doubled in just a few years.
This evolution is driven by a structured strategy, as highlighted by Florence Estra, Head of Internal Communications at Air France. The company has implemented targeted measures to support women’s career paths, including mentoring and coaching programs, as well as internal mechanisms to identify and promote female talent. These efforts are reinforced by formal gender equality agreements addressing both pay equity and the fight against sexism.
One of the most decisive levers lies upstream. Air France actively engages with young girls, in partnership with organizations such as Elles bougent and Aérométiers, to challenge stereotypes surrounding scientific and technical careers. The objective is clear: expand the pipeline of future female talent by acting early, at the stage of educational choices.
A more female leadership at the top
This transformation is also visible at the highest levels. Within Air France-KLM, governance reflects this shift. Air France is led by Anne Rigail, KLM by Marjan Rintel, while Florence Parly chairs the board.
As emphasized by Estelle Denize, Vice President Corporate Communications of the group, this leadership structure signals a clear ambition: to embed gender equality sustainably, including at the highest levels of decision-making.
Role models reshaping the narrative
In this context, individual journeys play a decisive role. The career of Captain Cécile Bourlier perfectly illustrates this transformation.
She joined Air France in 1991 as a flight attendant, without a scientific background or financial means, and built her path to the cockpit on her own, progressively funding her training. Her story challenges a persistent misconception: becoming a pilot is not reserved for those with advanced mathematical skills. It is a technical profession, accessible through determination and practice.
This reality opens new perspectives for a generation of young women who may not have previously seen themselves in these roles.
A powerful symbol: women at the controls to the United Nations
This momentum was also embodied in a highly symbolic moment during the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) at the United Nations.
As part of a partnership with The Women’s Voices, Air France organized a dedicated flight to New York carrying part of the French delegation, in the presence of Aurore Bergé, Minister for Gender Equality.
At the controls were two women pilots: Captain Cécile Bourlier and First Officer Laura Beaudru Tafanelli.
This choice was far from symbolic alone. It concretely reflects the growing presence of women in these professions—and their role in advancing women’s rights on the global stage.
A transformation now firmly underway
The trajectory is clear. Indicators show progress, corporate policies are strengthening, and role models are multiplying. While imbalances remain—particularly in technical roles—the current momentum reflects a deep and structural shift.
The aviation industry is no longer simply acknowledging the need for change. It is actively delivering it.