FAA establishes Women in Aviation board

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently established the Women in Aviation Advisory Board.

The board was established under the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to provide independent advice and recommendations to the FAA regarding women’s involvement in the aviation field.

The FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation are seeking ways to address the shortage of female professionals entering aviation careers. The agencies hope the board can provide ways to recruit women and provide a path to aviation careers.

“Our nation is facing a shortage of pilots and aviation professionals; there are great opportunities in this sector, and we want to encourage more women to enter these exciting professions,” U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao said.

The board will enhance training, mentorship, education, and outreach programs for women interested in aviation careers; expand scholarship opportunities; coordinate efforts among airlines, nonprofit organizations, and aviation and engineering associations to facilitate support for women pursuing aviation careers; and analyze industry trends.

Nominations for qualified candidates will be accepted until Oct. 29 on the Federal Register.

The FAA also established the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force to develop and recommend initiatives designed to encourage high school students to enter aviation careers.