Atlas Air marks International Women’s Day with all-female crew, honoring women in aviation

Saturday, March 9, 2024

On March 8, Atlas Air Worldwide honored International Women’s Day and Women of Aviation Worldwide Week by spotlighting a remarkable all-female flight crew. Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack, leading the Atlas Air 737, embarked from Alliance Airport (AFW) in Fort Worth, Texas, bound for Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Before their journey, the captains shared their experiences and insights, aiming to motivate others to explore aviation careers and dismantle longstanding barriers that have hindered women’s opportunities in the industry.

“I find incredible joy in this industry and flying because we have the privilege of soaring to new heights and exploring unique destinations around the globe that many people may never have the opportunity to visit,” said Captain Stack. “The women and young girls aspiring to join this profession have no limitations to what they can achieve.”

“This is a dynamic industry that is ever-changing and offers an office view like no other,” said Captain Flockenhaus. “To the young women considering a career in aviation, my advice is simple: Seize the opportunity! Embrace your fears and forge ahead – the rewards are unparalleled. It’s deeply fulfilling and takes you across the world, ensuring you’ll never feel like a stranger anywhere and you’ll always find your way home.”

In 2002, Atlas Air made history by fielding an all-female crew aboard the 747, led by Captain Gina Buhl and First Officer Delphine Nowicki, departing from Stansted Airport (STN) to Frankfurt (FRA).

These landmark flights underscore the strides made towards gender equality in aviation. Atlas Air, as the first cargo airline to endorse 25by2025, a global initiative championed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) within the aviation sphere, remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering inclusivity and gender balance. Through such initiatives, the company not only honors the achievements of women in aviation but also actively contributes to shaping a more inclusive future for the industry.

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