This year, Women in Aviation Singapore Chapter Ltd (WAI-SG) has joined Aviation Festival Asia as the Official Diversity Partner, sharing the event’s dedication to promoting inclusivity across the industry.
WAI-SG is the Singapore chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI), a non-profit organisation that is dedicated to the encouragement and advancement of women in all aviation career fields and interests.
Ahead of the event, one of WAI-SG’s Board of Directors, Sarah Samuel shared her insights on the diverse career opportunities within the industry, the role of technology and sustainability in attracting talent, and the readiness of the workplace to embrace women in aviation.
Speaking on how the industry’s creative use of cutting-edge technology can draw younger generations to the industry, Samuel explained:
“If we want to attract young people to aviation, we need to make them aware of the incredible technologies they’ll be working with. Today’s aircraft can fly longer distances using less fuel, with lower carbon and noise emissions, and AI and machine learning are being applied across all touchpoints in aviation. Even in fashion, AI is used to design uniforms and tools for crew members, and in aircraft maintenance, predictive analytics is transforming the way we operate. The younger generation are technology natives, and if they see that aviation is at the forefront of digital and environmental transformation, they’ll be more likely to consider it as a career. It’s about connecting their passion for innovation and sustainability with the opportunities available in aviation.”
Samuel also highlighted that although the industry still has a long way to go to rectify the gender imbalance, significant progress has been made even within her career. Samuel urged:
“It’s important for parents and guardians to also be aware that aviation is a safe and welcoming industry for young women. If they feel confident that their daughters will have a secure and supportive workplace, they’ll be more likely to encourage them to consider aviation careers. That also applies to young women themselves who are thinking about what subjects to study and what paths to take in higher education. They need to know that the industry is evolving, workplaces are becoming more inclusive, and there are so many different roles available beyond just being a pilot or flight attendant. It’s about creating awareness not just among young people, but also among the people who influence their career choices.”
Watch the full discussion below and join us next week at Aviation Festival Asia!
Questions include:
- WAI-SG is AFA’s Official Diversity Partner this year. Are there differences based on region in how young people perceive careers in aviation? How can these be overcome?
- How can we leverage the industry’s technological and environmental advancements to inspire future talent?
- Let’s discuss readiness of the workplace for women in aviation – what is your assessment here?
- Why did you decide to join AFA as our Official Diversity Partner this year?
For more on Aviation Festival Asia 2025 see:
- AFA spotlight: Top themes & debates to watch out for
- AFA spotlight: “It takes a village to raise a start up”
- Agenda spotlight: Five unmissable sessions at AFA 2025
