Would it be harder for me to become a pilot because I'm a female?

Question

Would it be harder for me to become a pilot because I'm a female?

Answer 1

It all depends on the attitudes of those around you. If you have an instructor, or go to a school ran by someone who believes women have no business in an airplane, then it will obviously be more difficult. There aren't a lot of people like that, but you better believe they are out there. Knowing that, if you run into those people move on. There are plenty of women friendly schools and instructors out there. Check out the Ninety-nines, lots of good stuff.



As far as physically flying an airplane, you are at a SLIGHT disadvantage. Some airplanes are very heavy on the controls and require some upper body stregnth, females aren't built like males and for the most part don't have the same upper body stregnth. With newer airplains, and pretty much anything you would use for training, this is not an issue. You have a slight advantage also, your brain works different, and your thought processes tend to be more organized than a mans, so that is a small benefit. Looking at the big picture, you're just like any student, they ALL have their advantages and disadvantages.



As far as making a career out of flying, my first point is still true. There are people out there that won't hire you because you are a woman (you can replace woman with any minority you choose), sorry but it is a fact of life. The majority of people doing the hiring of pilots won't count that against you, in fact many employers would rather hire a minority, as long as you are qualified for the job and they like you as a person. Looking at the big picture, I'd say you are slightly better off than a man, all things being equal.



If you're just getting into flying, check out the EAA's website (eaa.org I believe) and look into the young eagles program if you are young enough. It gets you a free indroductory flight (most schools charge about $50 for that) and last I knew they had a deal for a free private pilot self study kit, that is easily $250. Look into it...

Answer 2

1) if you're of particularly small stature, yes, it can be difficult whether you are male or female. While you might fly a small trainer OK, larger aircraft might prove difficult.



2) Professional flying requires a certain amount of "nerve" and self-assuredness. For cultural reasons, many young women do not develop the required psychological characteristics. If you are meek, shy, physically weak, not of competitive spirit, are bullied easily, cannot handle intense stress, are "jumpy", get scared easily or are lacking in technical education or ability, you may find it very challenging.



3) Being that it's a male-dominated profession (92%) you'll possibly find it to be intimidating. If you can hold your own, especially around arrogant males who think women should stay at home and raise kids, or at least work in the cabin serving coffee and meals, then you'll be fine. Unfortunately there are a lot of male pilots who don't think women should become pilots. Sad fact, but true. Fortunately that seems mostly to be among the older generation who are or will mostly be retiring before you'll be airline qualified.



4) Depending on which country you live in, you might find it easier to get flying jobs given equivalent experience. In the USA, hiring laws favor women, even if they are somewhat less qualified. In other countries, it can be quite the opposite.



5) With enough determination you can overcome almost any obstacle to a flying career..

Answer 3

Yes and no.



Airlines no longer discriminate against female pilots. In that sense, your gender will not hurt your chances of becoming an airline pilot.



Unfortunately though not all passengers agree. You will probably get some weird looks or comments once in a while from passengers. When I was a first officer (I'm a guy), I flew with lots of female captains. While they were all top notch pilots and leaders, I still overheard rude comments from passengers once in a while.



Unfortunately, there are lots of passengers in the world who feel that airline captains should be older white men with at least some gray hair. If you do not fit that description (I didn't when I flew because I looked young and I got rude comments all the time) you will get rude comments once in a while. If that doesn't bother you, then you will do just fine.

Answer 4

People might think you are not capable of being a pilot. But you should always remain focused on what your goal is. Don't let anything get in your way from being a pilot! My older sister wanted to become a pilot and she is 25,flying as a co pilot with United Airlines.

PS keep organized and work hard.

Answer 5

Nope. At least so far, i haven't had any problems... but really, gender isn't a factor. Some people might be surprised that a girl's learning to fly, or does fly, but the tests and checkrides aren't made harder for women.



Of course, when i walk into an airport with my dad to rent a plane to go on a daytrip somewhere, they assume that he's the pilot, but that is the extent of any sexism i've experienced. And really, that's not bad at all.

Answer 6

Why would it be harder? You need to be fairly good at maths and physics, and you need to be determined and someone who can get on well with people. I'm a girl - I got my PPL last summer and have spent the last six months in groundschool doing my exams for ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot's Licence), and I can tell you, you will be surrounded by mostly guys, you will miss female company, and you will get sick of hearing about football :-P But we're just as good as the guys (in fact we have an advantage in that we're generally not quite as cocky haha). You go for it. Out of interest, were you talking about commercial flying? Or just getting your private licence? It's hard work but if you stay disciplined and just keep remembering that goal at the end of it you'll manage it fine. Good luck, and don't ever let the boys tell you you're not as good! Take care.

Answer 7

Absolutely not!



As a flight instructor, i can tell you that there are many great female that are even better than many male pilots.



Aviation used to be considered more of a "man's club" but that has changed a lot even in the last few years.



The only concerns you should have (which are no different than a male) are your physical size. Some friends of mine that are a little shorter (5 ft 1) have trouble reaching the controls, but there are extensions available in some cases (or extra seat cushions).

Answer 8

Nope... There are many excellent female pilots.



There are no restrictions to becoming a private pilot, as long as you have the desire and aptitude.



You have an equal opportunity to become an airline pilot based on your skills, experience and knowledge.

Answer 9

Of course not. Anyone can lear to fly. Go out to the local airport and ask how much. It is expensive, what with fuel costs today. Anther way is to enlist in the Army for the Warrant Office Flight Program.

Answer 10

my opinion, its probably easier....they need to try and keep a balance between races, sexes, ages etc, so you being a "minority" in the aviation business (because most pilots are males), probably gives you a better standing.



as long as you get high grades in ATPLs and are good at what you do, and show the right kinda you at your interviews, then you will have a superb chance.

Answer 11

As long as you don't fail the exams anything else would be race/sexism

Answer 12

If you think this is going to be an issue, quit now. Why do you think this should be an issue?



Nobody gives a rat's what you have between your legs, nor do they care what you do with it.

Answer 13

maybe because of sexism, but go girl and show them. if its something you care about, go show them a female beats a man anyday!!!

Answer 14

Not in civilized countries. In Third-World countries you might still find it difficult or impossible.

Answer 15

Absolutely not. Its how you learn, work and improve. It is illegal for a person's gender to be taken into account.

Answer 16

Nope!

Why would it be harder?

Answer 17

not at all.