Air NZ admits lack of diversity in pilot lineup
A photo showing an all-male group of 45 Air New Zealand pilots is symptomatic of a lack of diversity in the industry, one aviation commentator says.
The photo, of the new captains being recognised at a celebration last year, was printed in an Air New Zealand Kia Ora magazine.
The accompanying text said being a captain and moving to the left-hand seat of an aircraft was a ‘‘milestone in every pilot’s career. It requires a high level of dedication and commitment and is something the airline is proud to formally recognise.’’
Aviation commentator Irene King said it showed a level of unconscious bias and ‘‘people recruiting in their own mould’’.
She said part of the problem was female students not studying science, technology, engineering and maths at school.
Air New Zealand was restricted to hiring those who graduated from flight schools, she said. If it wanted to ensure more diversity it would have to start its own training facilities, which would be expensive.
Flight schools could help by making a conscious decision to bring in 50 per cent female students, she said.
Data from Statistics New Zealand shows there are 1932 male aeroplane pilots in New Zealand and 114 female.
The photo has attracted criticism online. Television presenter Hilary Barry posted on Twitter: ‘‘The achievement of these very fine pilots aside, I think we need to encourage more women to take up flying. #wherearethewomen.’’
A spokeswoman for Air New Zealand said it acknowledged an under-representation of women in its pilot community and said it was encouraging women to consider aviation as a career.
She said there would be three new female jet captains at its next first-command ceremony in April and most of the 45 new captains would report to a senior female pilot, A320 fleet manager Christine Ody. All ultimately report to the general manager of pilots, Nikki Dines.