Breaking Barriers at 30,000 Feet: The Women Defining Aviation’s Future

Atlas Air Worldwide Celebrates Women of Aviation Worldwide Week with All-Women Flight Crew

(L-R) FO Laura Faraldo, Captain Anna Ivarsson and FO Lindsey Miller.

Atlas Air Worldwide proudly celebrated Women of Aviation Worldwide Week with a special all-women crew.  Held this year from March 3 – 9, Women of Aviation Week is an annual observance dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary contributions of women in the air and space industry.

On March 4, Captain Anna Ivarsson, First Officer Laura Faraldo and First Officer Lindsey Miller departed Anchorage (ANC) and landed in Chicago (ORD) on Atlas Flight 7832. Prior to takeoff, the crew shared their insights about their careers, and their passion for flying.

“The women who came before me paved the way for my success in aviation, and I continue to be inspired by my peers and other women in this industry,” said Captain Ivarsson. “I hope to do the same—to encourage the next generation of women and girls to take on the challenge. The rewards are worth it, and for me, that reward is flying a Boeing 747 today.”

For First Officer Lindsey Miller, the flight represented an opportunity as both an aviator and a mother. “As a mom, celebrating women in aviation is deeply personal. I want my two little girls to see that they can achieve anything with dedication and support—just as I have,” she shared. “My advice to aspiring female pilots is to stay focused, put in the time, and hone your craft. Growing up, I had never seen a female pilot, and I hope sharing my journey moves someone to take that first step toward the flight deck.”

First Officer Laura Faraldo echoed the importance of resilience in aviation. “Aviation is a challenging career, full of ups and downs—but don’t let the downs define you. Study hard, stay resilient, and keep pushing forward,” she said. “I’m honored to be part of Atlas’ celebration of Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, and I hope to motivate the next generation of women to know that they, too, can achieve their dreams in this industry.”

In 2002, Atlas Air made history as the first airline to operate an all-women crew on the 747, piloted by Captain Gina Buhl and First Officer Delphine Nowicki, from Stansted Airport (STN) to Frankfurt (FRA).

The Company has a longstanding commitment to fostering greater inclusion in the aviation sector. As the first cargo airline to ratify the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 25by2025 initiative, a global campaign to improve female representation in the industry.

(L-R) FO Laura Faraldo, Captain Anna Ivarsson and FO Lindsey Miller.

Atlas’ dedication extends beyond the flight deck. Atlas’ approach to talent development reflects its commitment to creating equitable opportunities for growth and leadership. The company actively partners with schools and industry organizations to build a strong pipeline of qualified professionals for critical roles, including flight crew, engineering, information technology, aircraft maintenance, and crew scheduling.

“The expertise, leadership, and vision of women are woven into the daily fabric of our company— women are essential to who we are and what we achieve together every day. The stories of Captain Ivarsson, First Officer Miller and First Officer Faraldo inspire us all,” said Michael Steen, Atlas Chief Executive Officer. “The future of aviation depends on a rich variety of thought, experience and perspective, and we are committed to continuing to make Atlas a company where everyone can thrive, and the sky truly is the limit.”

Watch a video about our Women of Aviation Worldwide Week Atlas flight here:

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