Emirates has promoted two accomplished Emirati female pilots – Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri – to captains, marking a pivotal step forward in its commitment to empowering Emirati women in aviation.
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Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri both rose through the Emirates Group’s National Cadet Pilot Programme, an initiative that has graduated numerous Emirati pilots.
Hanan Mohammed Jawad joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet pilot programme, driven by ambition, passion, and a lifelong dream of taking to the skies. With strong mentorship and continued support from the airline’s fleet management, she steadily progressed through the ranks, building her career from the ground up.
Bakhita Al Mheiri began her journey with Emirates as a cadet pilot in 2011. Inspired by successful Emirati female pilots and driven by her passion for flying, Bakhita continued to achieve one milestone after another, building a strong and successful career with Emirates.
Hanan and Bakhita have both officially received their 4th stripe this year, becoming the first Emirati female captains at Emirates, both operating the Boeing 777 fleet. With many years of experience in their respective careers, they both reflect a determination as strong as ever, and their ambitions continue to reach new heights.
A message from Hanan and Bakhita to the next generation of aspiring female pilots: “Our leadership has long recognised women as essential partners in shaping our nation’s future, and Emirates is creating the environment and opportunities for women to thrive, and we will continue to build on this for future generations.”
