Celebrating Women in Aviation Week

Dear Members, 

As our Aviation community comes together to commemorate Women in Aviation Week, we thought we would like to shine a spotlight on the contributions of women within our industry, particularly Canadian flight attendants.  

Susan Barnes, a pioneer in her own right, began her journey as a flight attendant with Canadian Pacific Air Lines in 1968. At a time when discriminatory policies were rampant, Susan faced challenges such as mandatory retirement at the young age of 30 and the absurd notion that marriage was a fireable offense. She challenged these injustices, alongside a small group of fellow flight attendants, sparking significant change within the industry. 

Susan's story, like many others, serves as a powerful reminder of the relentless pursuit of equality and fairness in the workplace. From battling weight restrictions and mandatory weigh-ins to demanding an end to discriminatory policies, Susan and her colleagues fought tirelessly to ensure that future generations of flight attendants would not have to endure the same injustices. 

Their efforts were not in vain. Over the years, flight attendants, including Susan, played a pivotal role in dismantling discriminatory practices and advocating for gender equality within the aviation industry. While the journey towards equality is ongoing, their pioneering spirit and determination continue to inspire us all. 

Other first notable women in our industry includes;  

Eileen Vollick, the first Canadian woman pilot, who received her pilot license on March 13, 1928 

Judy Cameron, who was the first female pilot hired for a major Canadian carrier in 1978 

Moretta Fenton Beall Reilly, the first female Canadian pilot to reach the rank of captain, the first female Canadian corporate pilot, and the first female to fly to the Arctic professionally.  

Rosella Bjornson, in 1973 became the first woman in Canada to be hired as a commercial airline pilot. 

Thank you for your dedication and hard work