To celebrate International Women’s Day, we caught up with our female students about their journey to becoming a pilot in a male-dominated industry.
Emmaline Haywood has always been fascinated by the world of aviation.
Here she shares her story about why she chose to become a pilot, her experience training with Bristol Groundschool and what advice she would give to other women looking to become pilots.
How did you get into aviation?
When I was 12, I went on my first long-haul flight to Orlando and I knew from that moment I wanted to have a career in flying. At that time I didn’t realise that being a pilot was achievable. So, I worked hard to become a Cabin Crew. I dreamt of the day I would be able to work with planes and until that point, I learnt as much as I could about the industry. After I finished university I started my role as Cabin Crew and did both that and marketing for a few years.
When Covid came around, it gave me a chance to reflect on my career so far and what I wanted to achieve next. Suddenly I realised that becoming a pilot wasn’t out of reach, it was just something I hadn’t thought much about. As I looked more into it, I realised it was something I was capable of, it was just the financial aspect of it that could be the biggest hurdle. Within days I had booked my first flying lesson and as soon as I finished that lesson my mind was made up, I was going to be a pilot!
Why did you choose a career as a pilot?
After spending most of my career flying as a Cabin Crew, I knew that I loved the travelling element and lifestyle that came with it. But more importantly, I wanted to be in a career where I would be continuously learning and developing. The practical element of flying a plane for me is so freeing and I really enjoy planning a trip, completing the checks and flying off somewhere. Knowing I’ll be facing a new challenge each day is so exciting to me and I know I’m so lucky to be working towards a career I am so passionate about.
What’s your favourite part about being a pilot?
I would say it’s continuous learning and progressing, no day is ever the same so you’re constantly working with different elements and factors. This is so important to me because I love to know I’m constantly developing my knowledge and improving my skills to be the best pilot I can be.
What’s been the best part of your pilot training so far?
I really enjoyed my night rating. After months of studying towards my ATPL exams and very limited flying, it was such a treat to be back and remind myself that I could still fly a plane. Finishing on my solo circuits was amazing as it was perfect flying weather. I hadn’t flown solo for a few months and it was just so peaceful!
How are you finding/did you find studying for your ATPL theory exams with BGS?
I have been so amazed by the support and resources available with BGS. From signing up to now working towards my last exams, the team have been very helpful throughout the process. Although it can be a very stressful time, I feel that BGS has helped me learn so much and pass my exams with flying colours.
I would highly recommend BGS for ATPL study, I have been so pleased with how much I’ve learnt and what I’ve achieved which wouldn’t have been possible without them.
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to complete my ATPL exams early this year, then go on to finish my hour building and hopefully shortly after that complete my MEP, ME/IR and CPL. I would love to work for a commercial airline once I’ve finished my licences and ratings.
I will also continue volunteering with various organisations to encourage more women to pursue a career in aviation and break down some of the barriers we face in this industry,
What advice would you give other women looking to become a pilot?
If you haven’t already, book that first lesson! It can be hard to get started, but taking it one lesson at a time will build quickly and before you know it, you’ll have gained your PPL.
Getting involved and volunteering with different organisations can help add to your knowledge, meet like-minded people and build your connections within the industry. You can also apply for scholarships which help towards the cost of your PPL and further flying.
Believe in yourself! If someone would have told me 4 years ago that I would be so close to gaining my commercial licence I wouldn’t have believed them. There are so many highs and lows in flying and sometimes you have to be very persistent, but it’s these days that make you a better pilot.
Keep working towards your dream, you will get there!
