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.
Daisy Bing grew up in an aviation family and aspired to become a pilot after a flight in a light aircraft for her 14th birthday. Daisy is now working towards passing her ATPL theory exam with Bristol Groundschool.
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?
I’m lucky enough to be from an aviation family; my grandfather was a Search and Rescue rotary pilot in the RAF, and both of my parents are Cabin Crew, so I’ve grown up being surrounded by flying and doing a lot of travelling.
For my 14th birthday, I was taken up in a light aircraft for the first time and instantly fell in love with flying. Since then, I’ve known I want to be a pilot and I’ve done everything I can to progress my career in aviation; I joined the RAF Air Cadets, then progressed into the University Air Squadron.
I’ve worked within operations in flight schools and at a private jet company, I’ve been a member of ground crew at a handling company, and also as a member of a charter sales team.
I’ve been so grateful to receive multiple flying scholarships which enabled me to complete my PPL(A) and night rating, and now I’m working full time towards my ATPL theory exams with BGS, before hopefully commencing the rest of my training later on this year.
Why did you choose a career as a pilot?
Whilst the pilot lifestyle and lots of travelling certainly are appealing, for me, the passion comes from the flying itself. The feeling of flying solo is incredible, as well as being able to share my love of flying with family and friends. I love that flying is a skill to constantly work at – you are always able to learn something new and improve.
I feel so lucky to have found my passion and to have the opportunity to pursue it.
What’s your favourite part about being a pilot?
I love that there are so many varieties and things to get involved in within the aviation industry. Going from being an airline pilot, to flying a Cub out of a grass strip, to flying helicopters, there is always something new to learn and achieve.
Flying is so much fun, and the opportunities are endless! I think it’s also worth mentioning the aviation community, which is one of the most supportive industries out there.
The industry itself goes through its ups and downs, but you can always rely on the support of the people around you.
What’s been the best part of your pilot training so far?
Going solo aged 16 was certainly a highlight and a massive achievement for me. I also really enjoyed the last few hours of my PPL(A), as it brought together everything I’d learnt and was when I really started to gain my confidence.
Recently, I’ve been loving taking people up flying that wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to do so.
How are you finding studying for your ATPL theory exams with BGS?
Everyone told me ATPL exams are difficult, but I never realised quite how difficult they would be. However, I am so grateful to be studying with BGS – the instructors are so knowledgeable and are always happy to help me.
Having chosen from a number of different distance learning providers, I know that BGS was the right choice for me. The webinars are excellent and the content is very well explained. The question bank has also ensured that I’m as prepared as possible for my upcoming exams.
I really would recommend BGS to anyone, and I’m looking forward to studying the next two modules.
What are your plans for the future?
Like most, I’d love to fly for a major airline and fly as many types as possible. I’d also love to do some more work with aviation charities, without which I wouldn’t be in the position I am in today. I’d specifically like to work to promote women in aviation.
What advice would you give other women looking to become pilots?
Get involved in everything you possibly can. Becoming a pilot is expensive and it often feels out of reach and simply impossible for a lot of people – I’d say to always apply for all the scholarships and bursaries on offer.
Go to your local airport and talk to pilots, and don’t be scared to reach out to pilots online, as most will be happy to offer their advice.
Try to get some work experience within the aviation industry, as this will help you massively throughout your career. Whilst sometimes the thought of entering a male-dominated industry can be intimidating, don’t let this put you off.
The support I’ve received in this community really is amazing, and I know I’ve made some friends for life.
