Loganair's chief pilot, Amelia Findlater, is using International Women’s Day 2026 to inspire more women to pursue careers in aviation. With women comprising only five per cent of commercial airline pilots globally, Findlater’s journey from manufacturing engineer to chief pilot at Loganair highlights the potential for change within the industry. She emphasises the importance of visibility, support, and mentoring to encourage women to see a clear path to the flight deck.
Findlater, who holds a degree in manufacturing engineering and management from the University of Strathclyde, transitioned to aviation after a chance encounter with a friend at British Airways. She began her flying career at Loganair, where she appreciated the airline’s supportive culture and opportunities for progression. “There isn’t necessarily a barrier to women flying, but we need the belief that we can do it and see ourselves doing it,” she said.
Loganair, where 15% of pilots are women, has been recognised for its punctuality, with 81% of flights arriving and departing on time in 2025, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Findlater, a mother of two, is part of a leadership team with significant female representation, including Natalie Bush, Chief Operations Officer, and Rebecca Borresen, Director of Safety and Sustainability.
For Findlater, the theme of “Give to Gain” is a guiding principle. She believes investing in pilots’ confidence and development enhances safety and teamwork. “Representation matters, and by supporting and mentoring others, we can help create an environment where everyone feels they belong,” she stated
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
