To celebrate Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, we caught up with our female students about their journey to becoming a pilot in a male-dominated industry.
Phoebe is 20 years old, from East Yorkshire. She just started her first Airline job with easyJet as a Second Officer based out of Manchester.
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 got into aviation at 12 when I started gliding at my local gliding club – Wolds Gliding Club in Pocklington. Most weekends were spent in the air and helping others get airborne – it was amazing! I couldn’t think of a more exciting career than becoming a pilot and I started my PPL at 17 through a scholarship from the Honourable Company of Air Pilots (HCAP). From gaining my PPL in Summer 2022, I continued my modular training which I completed in October 2024.
What’s been the best part of your pilot training so far?
The best part of my pilot training was doing my Hour Building in Florida. I was fortunate enough to do the Miami VFR transition a few 100ft off the beach – pictures do not do it justice! Another memorable flight was a low approach over NASA – this was such a pinch-me moment…
How are you finding/did you find studying for your ATPL theory exams with BGS?
BGS made studying ATPL Theory simple and seamless. Although a challenging time, I never felt alone and had the support of all the instructors and fellow students. I thoroughly enjoyed the brush-up weeks in which you could meet other students all across the country!
What are your plans for the future?
I have just started my first Airline Job, with easyJet as a Second Officer based out of Manchester. I am so excited about this career and grateful to everyone who has helped me get to this position today.
What advice would you give other women looking to become a pilot?
For any woman looking to get into aviation – just go for it! You will never look back… it is the best and most rewarding job out there!
