Emirates has
promoted two accomplished Emirati pilots, Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al
Mheiri, to the rank of captain, marking a historic milestone for both the
airline and the UAE aviation sector. They have become the first Emirati female
captains in Emirates’ history, both serving on the airline’s Boeing 777 fleet,
a press release said. The achievement reflects Emirates’ continued commitment
to empowering Emirati women and developing national talent in aviation through
its renowned National Cadet Pilot Programme.
Hanan Mohammed
Jawad joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet pilot programme, driven by her
passion for aviation and a lifelong dream of flying. With dedication,
perseverance, and the support of Emirates’ training and fleet management teams,
she steadily advanced through the ranks to become a captain. Bakhita Al Mheiri
began her journey with Emirates in 2011 as a cadet pilot. Inspired by
pioneering Emirati women in aviation and motivated by her own ambition, she
continued to achieve one milestone after another, building a distinguished
career with the airline.
This year, both
Hanan and Bakhita officially earned their fourth stripes — a symbol of leadership,
excellence, and responsibility in the cockpit. Sharing a message for the next
generation of aspiring female pilots, they said: “Our leadership has long
recognised women as essential partners in shaping our nation’s future. Emirates
continues to create opportunities for women to thrive, and we hope future
generations will continue to build on this progress.”
Their
achievement stands as an inspiring example of the growing role of Emirati women
in global aviation and the UAE’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion
and excellence across all sectors.
