DEI collaborations and partnerships

DEI collaborations and partnerships

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Aviation
Introduction to DEI in Aviation
Engaging the organisation on DEI
DEI learning initiatives and training
HR best practices in the area of DEI
DEI collaborations and partnerships
Metrics
Communication – Introducing DEI vocabulary
Authors, acknowledgments, and supporting organisations

Introduction

DEI are integral elements for fostering innovation, creativity, and overall success within any industry, including aviation. Collaborating and/or partnering with, for example, non-profit enhance the effectiveness of company initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive and diverse aviation sector. Such collaborations not only reduce financial burdens and avoid duplication of work but also amplify impact by multiplying voices and messages and streamlining efforts. By establishing strong, sustained partnerships with DEI associations and organisations, aviation stakeholders can contribute to and benefit from a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive aviation industry.

Types of DEI associations and organisations

There are various types of DEI-focused associations or organisations, including:

  • Non-profit organisations with a focus on DEI (e.g. AviAll – Aviation for All, IAWA, EPAN)
  • Professional industry associations, staff organisations and trade unions with a focus on a specific sector, covering various matters including DEI (e.g. IATA, IFATCA, IFALPA, IFATSEA, IFIMA, IFAIMA, ECA)
  • International and State organisations with a general focus, including tackling DEI matters (e.g. the EC’s Women in Transport Platform, the EC’s Diversity Ambassadors, and ICAO’s gender equality initiatives)

Partnering and collaborating with these associations or organisations can offer numerous advantages. It's essential to note that the benefits can be unidirectional, where stakeholders primarily benefit from the expertise of organisations or practitioners specialised in DEI. However, most collaborations are mutually beneficial, fostering cross-fertilisation of ideas and resources. The nature of collaboration should align with the intentions and needs of the parties involved.

Advantages of collaborations and partnerships

Expertise and focus

Non-profit associations such as AviAll – Aviation for All, the European Pride in Aviation Network (EPAN), the International Aviation Women's Association (IAWA), and Women in Aviation (WAI) have accumulated extensive DEI competence and knowledge. Professional industry associations – such as the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA), the International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations (IFATSEA), the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Association (IFAIMA), the European Cockpit Association (ECA), the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA), as well as trade unions such as the European Transport Workers' Federation (ETF), have also integrated DEI specialisation as part of their industry portfolio. These groups offer valuable insights, voluntary engagement, and tailored resources to meet the unique challenges and opportunities within the aviation sector.

Networking opportunities

DEI associations and organisations provide extensive networking opportunities, facilitating connections among aviation stakeholders. This helps create a collaborative ecosystem and knowledge pool for DEI initiatives.

Global perspective

Worldwide associations, such as IAWA and WAI, and initiatives carried out by international organisations, such as ICAO’s gender equality initiatives, UN Women, or Women Who Lead, bring a global perspective to DEI, ensuring that initiatives are globally inclusive and reflective of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

How to successfully engage with partners

Successful collaboration and dedicated partnerships with DEI associations and organisations generally include:

Clear support

Define and communicate the purpose and goals of your DEI initiative to ensure alignment with the mission and objectives of the DEI partner/collaborating association or organisation

Resource support

Provide necessary resources (e.g. funding, data, engagement of people, provision of infrastructure) to support and leverage partner organisations, either in continued engagement or as a one-off engagement.

Guidance and collaboration

Offer and receive guidance to foster a collaborative and supportive environment. Regular communication and feedback mechanisms between the point of contact (PoC) of your organisation and the DEI partner organisation are essential for a fruitful partnership.

Learning and leverage

Learn from lessons learned and best practices, leverage key messaging, and share findings and recommendations that benefit both aviation stakeholders and the DEI association/organisation.

Maintaining long-term partnerships

To establish and maintain long-term partnerships, aviation stakeholders should consider the following:

Commitment to continuous learning

Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing education and understanding of DEI issues. Participating in training sessions and staying informed about evolving best practices is crucial.

Inclusive decision-making

Incorporate diverse perspectives into decision-making processes. Actively invite and involve representatives from partner organisations in strategic discussions related to DEI initiatives.

Regular evaluations and adjustment

Regularly assess the impact of initiatives and be willing to adjust strategies based on feedback and outcomes. Flexibility is crucial for responding to the evolving landscape of DEI in aviation. Seek collaboration partners which best suit your organisation and staff needs to ensure that they are a good fit for the company culture. Regularly check the alignment as needs can change and different collaboration partners may need to be sought.

 

List of DEI associations and organisations

Group 1: Dedicated DEI associations and organisations

AviAll - AviAll is a prominent non-profit association dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the aviation industry. Specialising in fostering diversity across all aspects of aviation, AviAll is known for its inclusive approach to promoting equality and representation in the industry. Their scope encompasses a comprehensive approach to inclusivity, covering all facets of aviation, from workforce representation to industry policies. AviAll actively engages with aviation stakeholders, including operational regulatory bodies, educational institutions, and professionals. One example of activities carried out by the association is the annual Avi4All Girls event. The Aviation 4 Girls event, organised by AviAll, is an initiative aimed at promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the aviation industry. The event provides young girls and boys with a unique opportunity to explore various aviation-related careers and engage with professionals in the field. During the event, participants get to interact with different role models and experts from the industry. They receive firsthand knowledge through panel discussions, workshops, and hands-on activities that cover different aspects of the industry. The benefits of the Aviation 4 Girls event are multi-fold. First and foremost, it aims to inspire and encourage young people (with a main focus on girls) to pursue careers in aviation. By providing them with role models and showcasing diverse career options, the event helps break gender stereotypes and promotes equal opportunities within the industry.

EPAN - EPAN stands for the European Pride in Aviation Network. It brings together members of the LGBTQIA+ aviation community from across Europe and beyond, fostering a safe space and a sense of community and belonging. As a non-profit organisation committed to diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry, EPAN provides resources, supports, and unites the LGBTQIA+ aviation community through events, social platforms, and participation in industry initiatives. EPAN has made notable appearances at events like EBACE 2023, showcasing its dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the aviation sector.

IAWA - The International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA) is a global non-profit organisation for women who hold impactful positions, promoting the advancement and recognition of women in leadership in the aviation and aerospace industries. Established in 1988, IAWA brings together women around the world in multiple ways, including at the Annual Conference, regional fora, networking receptions at industry events and through local contacts. IAWA provides its events and conferences with a forum to share views on matters of importance to the industry, as well as to women and DEI in general. IAWA has established early scholarship programmes for students pursuing aviation careers and offers a mentoring programme. Outreach efforts target female aviation professionals, male advocates and industry leaders in general, aviation and aerospace companies, public entities and regulators. The association also works in collaboration with aviation organisations and companies globally.

WAI - Women in Aviation is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to increasing the number of women involved in all aspects of aviation and aerospace and advancing representation and opportunities for women in aviation. WIA offers an annual conference, conducts many activities at regional level and recognises outstanding women in aviation, inspiring others to pursue careers in the field. Outreach involves partnerships with aviation companies and educational institutions, and participation in industry events to advocate for gender diversity.

Group 2: General industry/staff associations with DEI activities as part of their industry portfolio

CANSO - is a representative body of companies that provide air traffic control services. It represents the interests of air navigation service providers. CANSO members are responsible for supporting over 85% of world air traffic, and through its workgroups, members share information and develop new policies, with the aim of improving air navigation services on the ground and in the air. CANSO also represents its members' views in regulatory and industry forums, including at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), where it has official observer status.

  • For more information and contact details visit: Home - CANSO

ECA - is a regional representative body that represents the interests of pilots across Europe. It is committed to promoting the highest level of flight safety, security, and professional standards. The ECA advocates for pilots' rights, working conditions, and training standards, addressing key issues related to aviation safety and the well-being of cockpit crew in Europe.

IATA - IATA started the initiative 25by2025. By joining 25by2025, organisations commit to increasing female representation both in senior roles and in areas where women are traditionally underrepresented. IATA provides the industry with the necessary tools to promote and share best practices. Progress is shared annually at the IATA World Air Transport Summit.

  • For more information and contact details visit: IATA - Home

IFAIMA - is a global organisation that represents aeronautical information management professionals. IFAIMA aims to improve the quality, consistency, and accessibility of aeronautical information and data used in aviation operations. Through collaboration and dialogue, IFAIMA seeks to enhance safety and efficiency in the provision of aeronautical information services worldwide.

IFALPA - is a global organisation that represents over 100,000 pilots from various airlines around the world. IFALPA works to promote safety in aviation by providing a platform for pilots to advocate for improvements in flight safety and aviation standards. It collaborates with other industry stakeholders to address issues such as pilot fatigue, operational procedures, and regulations to ensure the highest level of safety in air operations worldwide.

IFATCA - The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA) emphasises diversity and inclusivity in air traffic control professions, fostering a supportive environment for controllers worldwide. In addition to developing training modules promoting cultural awareness among air traffic controllers, the federation’s outreach efforts include collaboration with air navigation service providers, regulatory bodies, and participation in international aviation conferences.

IFATSEA - is an organisation that represents air traffic safety electronics professionals worldwide. It aims to ensure the highest level of safety in air traffic management by promoting cooperation, information sharing, and professional development among its member associations.

  • For more information and contact details visit: IFATSEA 

 

Group 3: International/State organisations with DEI as part of their portfolio

The European Commission’s Diversity Ambassadors: The Ambassadors for #DiversityInTransport seek to promote diversity, equality and inclusion within the EU transport sector, through raising awareness and sharing information on and developing and implementing initiatives to promote diversity in the EU transport sector, both from the perspective of transport workers and transport users.

Ellas Vuelan Alto - (for Spain and Spanish-speaking countries): Their mission is to increase the visibility of women in the aerospace sector in Spain, covering the political, university, business and administration spheres, based on the vision of equality in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Women in Transport – EU Platform for Transport - The transport sector, with only 22% of women, is not gender-balanced. The objective of the Women in Transport – EU Platform for Change, launched on 27 November 2017, is to strengthen women's employment and equal opportunities for women and men in the transport sector thanks to the actions brought about by the Platform’s members. It also serves as a forum to discuss and exchange good practices.

ICAO gender equality initiatives - including the Global Aviation Gender Summits

Global Aviation and Aerospace Skills Taskforce (GAAST) - In the wake of unprecedented challenges, including significant workforce contractions during the pandemic and rapid technological advancements, the necessity for a coordinated, innovative approach to workforce development has never been more critical. GAAST represents a collaborative effort between leading industry bodies, government entities, and educational institutions worldwide to ensure the aviation and aerospace sectors remain vibrant, sustainable, and capable of meeting the demands of the future.

UN Women - As a UN entity, UN Women advocates for gender equality globally, and their work is relevant to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the aviation sector. As a global entity, UN Women's success includes influencing aviation policies to incorporate gender equality. Outreach spans governmental bodies, international organisations, and partnerships with aviation stakeholders to advocate for inclusive policies.


Please note that the list above is not exhaustive, and no prioritisation nor classification of the activities is intended. However, it provides many options and examples for stakeholders to enhance and leverage their own DEI initiatives, depending on their individual needs, with external collaboration or formal partnerships. The list might be expanded in the next edition and input from stakeholders is welcome.

Related resources

DEI introduction videos

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