Atlas Air Worldwide celebrated a very special all-female flight crew on March 8 to commemorate both International Women’s Day and Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, an annual observance dedicated to recognizing women’s contributions to the air and space industry.
Atlas Air 737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack departed Alliance
Airport (AFW) in Fort Worth, Texas to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Prior to their flight, both captains took a moment to share insights to inspire others to pursue careers in aviation and break down the barriers that have historically limited opportunities for women in the field.
“I find incredible joy in this industry and flying because we have the privilege of soaring to new heights and exploring unique destinations around the globe that many people may never have the opportunity to visit,” said Captain Stack. “The women and young girls aspiring to join this profession have no limitations to what they can achieve.”
“This is a dynamic industry that is ever-changing and offers an office view like no other,” said Captain Flockenhaus. “To the young women considering a career in aviation, my advice is simple: Seize the opportunity! Embrace your fears and forge ahead – the rewards are unparalleled. It’s deeply fulfilling and takes you across the world, ensuring you’ll never feel like a stranger anywhere and you’ll always find your way home.”
Atlas Air was also the first airline to feature an all-woman crew on the 747 in 2002. The flight, piloted by Captain Gina Buhl and First Officer Delphine Nowicki, departed from Stansted Airport (STN) to operate to Frankfurt (FRA).
These flights serve as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made toward achieving gender equality in aviation. As the first cargo airline to ratify 25by2025, a global initiative led by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the aviation industry, Atlas has a longstanding commitment to fostering greater inclusion and gender balance in the sector. Through initiatives like this, the Company celebrates the accomplishments of women across the field and actively contributes to shaping a more inclusive future for the industry.
More information on Atlas Air can be found at www.atlasairworldwide.com.