Gloucestershire airline academy partners with global charity to inspire women to learn how to fly

A new business partnership is reaching out to women across the world to offer mentorship and free online resources to support women at every stage of their aviation journey – from first interest to professional training.

By Emma Luther  |  Published
Skyborne staff, students and the Elevate(her) team at Vero Beach in Florida.

Gloucestershire's Skyborne airline academy has formed a new partnership with Elevate(her) to expand access to flight training and drive greater female representation in the cockpit. 

Analysis from the Air Line Pilots Association International trade union says that globally women account for fewer than six per cent of airline pilots.

The new collaboration, announced this June 2025, will see Skyborne and Elevate(her) deliver global targeted outreach, mentorship and free online resources designed to support women at every stage of their aviation journey – from first interest to professional training. 

Commercial director at Skyborne, Carla Booth, said: 'Greater diversity in aviation requires real action.

'At Skyborne, we’re committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all trainees and inspiring people from all backgrounds to pursue careers in aviation.

'Working with Elevate(her) will allow us to broaden our reach in the UK and US, and offer more tailored support to our female trainees.'

Community-led initiative, Elevate(her), is dedicated to empowering women in aviation worldwide.

Founder of Elevate(her), Katherine Moloney, said: 'Our goal has always been to break down cultural and structural barriers and give women the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed in aviation.

'Working with Skyborne provides us with a global platform and a partner that truly understands the importance of representation at every level of the industry.

'Together, we’ll provide even greater support and visibility for the next generation of women in aviation.'

The collaboration builds on Skyborne’s commitment to expanding diversity in the flight deck. The airline training academy has bases in Gloucestershire, Bournemouth and Vero Beach in Florida.

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