The Rise of Female Commercial Pilots in India: A Career in the Clouds

February 9, 20242 Minutes
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A significant transformation is taking place across the vast Indian skies as more and more women embrace the once male-dominated profession of commercial pilots . The narrative shifts from a scarcity of female pilots to a surge in their presence, breaking stereotypes and forging a new path in the aviation industry.

The dream of a career as a pilot has historically been associated with a select few. However, the scenario is evolving, especially in India, where the skies witness an increasing number of women pursuing pilot careers . This paradigm shift is not merely a statistical change but a testament to the determination and passion of these women who have chosen to soar amidst the clouds.

The journey of female pilots in India reflects a departure from conventional norms. Historically, the cockpit was male-dominated, but now, women are making their mark as skilled and competent commercial pilots . The aviation industry in India has become more inclusive, acknowledging the prowess and capabilities of female aviators.

One of the contributing factors to the rise of female pilots in India is the increased awareness and encouragement for women to pursue careers in aviation. Organisations and training academies promote equal opportunities, ensuring aspiring female aviators receive the necessary support and mentorship to thrive in the industry.

The availability of pilot jobs and the growing demand for skilled professionals in the aviation sector have further opened doors for women seeking a career as a pilot . Airlines actively recruit female pilots, recognising the diverse perspectives and strengths they bring to the cockpit. This shift is not just about gender inclusivity but also about tapping into a broader talent pool.

These trailblazing female pilots' stories inspire a new generation of aspiring aviators. One such trailblazer is Captain Ananya Singh, who, against all odds, pursued her dream of becoming a pilot. Her journey from dreaming of a career as a pilot to commanding a commercial aircraft showcases the determination and resilience of women breaking barriers in the Indian aviation landscape.

The societal perception of a commercial pilot is gradually changing, thanks to these women who have chosen to navigate the skies. Families and communities are becoming more accepting and supportive of women pursuing pilot careers . This shift in mindset is crucial for creating an environment where aspiring female pilots feel encouraged to pursue their passion without facing unnecessary societal barriers.

The rise of female commercial pilots in India is not just a trend; it is a transformative movement shaping the future of the aviation industry. Including more women in the cockpit enhances diversity, fosters innovation, and challenges preconceived notions about gender roles in traditionally male-dominated professions.

The ascent of female commercial pilots in India is a significant milestone in the aviation sector. As more women embrace a career as pilots , the skies become more inclusive and diverse. The narrative is evolving from a gender-specific career choice to a profession where talent and skill know no gender boundaries. With their wide wings, these women are not just flying aeroplanes but breaking barriers and inspiring future generations

At Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly Fair & Lovely Career Foundation), we are committed to empowering women towards independence. We offer online tests, exciting job opportunities, career guidance, and courses to help women build successful careers in aviation.

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July 23, 20214 Minutes

Komal Mangtani: The Rebellious Girl Learned Coding and Is Now One of America’s Top 50 Women in Technology

**Coming from a conservative family in Surat, Komal's rebellion was taking up Coding as a career. Today, Komal is the Senior Director and Head of Engineering and Business Intelligence at Uber.** <br /> <br /> Komal came from a conservative family in Surat. The idea of women working or going away for higher education was not popular. "*I come from a conservative family. People were loving but not necessarily giving me the right feedback.* ***Back then, traveling 200 km to study, staying in a hostel, was all a no-no. I distinctly remember crying, trying to convince my family this was the right thing for me."*** **So Komal rebelled and decided to take up Coding.** <br /> <br /> *Having the right career guidance is important. It is easier to succeed when what you are doing matches your interests.* [*To get a free online test in career planning click here!*](https://www.glowandlovelycareers.in/en/career-guidance) **Using education as a ticket to independence** Komal once said, *"For me, computer engineering became a ticket to freedom, to independence."* Coding helped Komal explore her career differently. She could move away from social norms that were otherwise tying her down. **The initial struggle** <br /> <br /> It was not easy though. Komal studied engineering almost 20 -- 25 years back. During the 1980s- 1990s. Computers were not easily available then. ***"I had to pay by the hour for computer time!"*** To save money, Komal started writing software programs on paper first. Then she would run to the local cybercafé and type those programs on the computer. Komal, however, did not let these challenges discourage her. Instead, she started having fun. She treated these challenges like a game. Writing software programs and testing them gave an outlet to her creativity. **Converting challenges into opportunities** Komal's imagination was strong. She loved solving puzzles and riddles. When the computer programs she wrote didn't work, she treated them like a puzzle. It was her version of a video game. **Breaking society's rules** **After graduation, Komal joined Wipro as a software engineer. The society, however was not happy. At that time, people thought a working woman meant the family was poor.** <br /> <br /> At that time, Komal's father supported her. **Taking up a job...... Going away from home to pursue a career.... Pursuing Technology, which was predominantly a male-dominated profession...... Komal kept breaking the typical norms.** <br /> <br /> **Taking these risks paid off** The job in Wipro as a software engineer was the start of a successful career. Due to her background with Wipro, Komal could shift to the US. There she got an opportunity to work with Oracle in the US. Later she joined Uber and has been in the news ever since! Today, Komal is a senior Director in Uber and heads engineering and business intelligence. **Komal on girls entering the world of Technology** **Komal's advice to girls wanted to enter Technology is that they should broaden the definition of Technology. Match using Technology with their interests. She gives an example of YouTube and Facebook.** <br /> <br /> **One may be developing the next YouTube because she or she likes love watching videos. Similarly, one may create the next Facebook because he/she likes to socialize.** <br /> <br /> *Having the right career guidance is important. It is easier to succeed when what you are doing matches your interests.* [*To get free career guidance about your dream career, click here!*](https://www.glowandlovelycareers.in/en/career-guidance/career-options) According to Komal, having an equal number of men and women in Technology is beneficial to business. Since women think differently and bring a unique approach to solving problems -- which may be different from a man's approach. Komal is a strong supporter of women joining Technology. She is on board of communities such as Women Who Code and Girls Who Code -- organizations that help girls make a career in Technology. In fact, Komal was also instrumental in Uber donating more than a million dollars to Girls who Code to help girls develop technical knowledge at a young age. **Komal on empowering girls to make their own decisions** <br /> **Be it career or deciding what to eat, Komal firmly believes that girls should make their own choice.** <br /> *She feels that we need to empower girls to make decisions from a very young age. It can be a simple activity such as going to a restaurant and allowing them to order what they want. This helps boost their confidence."* Komal herself has 2 daughters. One is 10 years old and the other is 14 years old. She keeps telling her girls not to allow the world to define them. She feels girls should invest in themselves and now allow others to define their strengths and weaknesses. *If you wish to pursue a career in computers and Information technology, you can check out our [free online courses in Information Technology](/online-courses)* *Or you can* [*click here to get free career guidance about your dream career!*](/career-guidance/career-options)