The 10th anniversary of Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) was marked by Women in Aviation – Ireland Chapter. This initiative of Women in Aviation International ® is a global event to encourage girls’ participation in aviation. Over 40 girls were invited to GIAD 2024, which was kindly hosted by the Shannon Aviation Museum and sponsored by Entry Point North. Almost the same number of women volunteered their time and expertise on the day – pilots, ATCOs, engineers, cabin crew, etc.
The girls flew Single Engine Piston aeroplane simulators, got up close and personal with a CFM56 jet engine, met Air Traffic Controllers (AirNav Ireland and Irish Air Corps), learned about drones, inflated life vests, and flew a B737 simulator. This was all in the fascinating surroundings of the museum which houses a Reims Rocket aeroplane, morse code machines, a weather station, Irish military memorabilia and much, much, more.
The simulators were a highlight in the feedback received. The girls, aged between 11-17, got a glimpse of the wonders of aviation as a profession or as a hobby. Maybe some of them will begin the adventure of learning to fly – whether that’s a glider, an aeroplane, a helicopter, or a drone!
The range of skills that are involved in ensuring passengers fly from A to B safely is immense. The girls learned about the highly regulated professional aviation industry – from ground crew to flight crew, to those behind the scenes that passengers never see. They asked questions, sometimes difficult ones, and really engaged with all the volunteers.
Each girl received a goodie bag thanks to Women in Aviation International ® with some additional gifts from Shannon Engine Support, Aero Inspection International, Oklahoma Aviation Academy and Shannon Aviation Museum. Membership of Women in Aviation – Ireland Chapter is free for those under 18. The organisation offers scholarships for pilots, ATCOs, engineers, and general career advancement.
Women in Aviation – Ireland Chapter is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to increasing the number of women involved in all aspects of aviation and aerospace. Providing a networking space for aviation professionals and hobbyists, WAI-Ireland Chapter aims to encourage collaboration between women in aviation in Ireland.
