Advancing DEI in Aviation: A Strategic Roadmap for Meaningful Change

The European aviation sector is transforming its approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with the development of a comprehensive toolkit designed to address workforce challenges and drive industry-wide progress. 

Developed through the EU Women in Transport Platform for Change, and supported by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and EUROCONTROL, this innovative resource represents a coordinated effort to expand and enhance the aviation workforce.

The toolkit emerges at a critical moment for the industry, which continues to grapple with significant skills shortages and a need for more inclusive workplace practices. By providing a structured framework for DEI implementation, the initiative aims to move beyond fragmented approaches to create meaningful, sustainable change across aviation organisations.

Recognising that diversity is more than a compliance requirement, the toolkit underscores the importance of inclusive workplace practices. Research consistently demonstrates that diverse teams drive innovation, improve safety outcomes, and enhance decision-making capabilities—critical advantages in an increasingly complex industry landscape.

"EASA is tackling the workforce challenges in the aviation industry through a task in the European Plan for Aviation Safety (EPAS) that is focus on various aspects of the topic," said John Franklin, EASA’s Lead Specialist, Communications and Safety Promotion.

"It starts with promotion of careers to the next generation to encourage them to join the industry and continues by helping all staff in the industry to identify meaningful, long-term career paths in organisations with a positive culture to encourage them to stay in the industry. 

"A key piece of this picture is broadening the talent pool through effective Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to show women and people from other under-represented groups that they have a place in the industry”

The upcoming two-day workshop, hosted by AirNav Ireland, will bring together key stakeholders to refine the toolkit's approach. Participants will explore comprehensive strategies spanning engagement, training, communication, metrics, partnerships, and human resources practices. 

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This collaborative approach ensures the toolkit will be both flexible and practical, capable of adaptation across different organisational contexts.

EASA and EUROCONTROL are actively encouraging industry participation, establishing a working group to guide the toolkit's continued development. The initiative aligns with broader EU directives and UN Sustainable Development Goals, positioning aviation as a proactive leader in driving societal progress.

The toolkit addresses a critical industry challenge: while most aviation and aerospace organisations recognise DEI's importance, many struggle with effective implementation. By providing a clear, actionable roadmap, the initiative bridges the gap between intention and meaningful action.

Find Out More About The Toolkit

As the aviation industry faces unprecedented workforce challenges, this DEI toolkit can be used for attracting, developing, and retaining talent from diverse backgrounds, ensuring the sector remains innovative, resilient, and representative of the global community it serves.

"As a female pilot in a male-dominated industry, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of discrimination and bias," said  Veronica Zunic, co-chair of the ATPG

"That’s why, on behalf of ATPG, I was interested in helping to develop this DEI toolkit—a practical step toward fostering a more inclusive and respectful workplace for everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background. 

"Equity isn’t just a goal; it’s a necessity for a stronger, safer, efficient and more diverse aviation community.”