A new study by Dublin City University, with the support of the Irish aviation industry, has shown the sector needs to become more inclusive, with women and ethnic minorities underrepresented in numerous areas.
'Irish Aviation: A Focus on Gender Diversity' found that more than half of respondents have experienced or witnessed discrimination in the aviation industry, rising to 63% for women.
92% of companies surveyed said they did not have a budget allocated to Diversity and Inclusion.
The study also found that females and ethnic minorities are still underrepresented, particularly in the areas of piloting, aircraft leasing, and roles related to STEM such as aircraft technical and mechanical support staff.
Project Lead and course director of MSc Aviation Leadership and Graduate Certificate in Aviation Sustainability, Leadership and Innovation at DCU Dr Marina Efthymiou said the report highlights the challenges and opportunities that exist for increasing representation and creating a more inclusive environment.
"As we move towards a more inclusive future, it is crucial that the aviation industry recognises the importance of diversity," Dr Efthymiou said.
"The launch of this report marks an important step in this direction, and I am pleased to see the industry taking proactive steps to address the gaps and promote equitable opportunities for all individuals," she added.
Orla Benson of SMBC Aviation Capital and a member of the ESG working group for Aircraft Leasing Ireland (ALI) said the research from DCU is evidence that females and ethnic minorities are still under-represented in aircraft leasing and across the aviation sector.
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"There is an onus on all companies to become more inclusive and this can only be achieved by analysing the research and individual data within organisations and aiming to improve these metrics at all levels across the organisation from entry right through to the highest levels," Ms Benson said.
14 organisations and more than 450 industry workers from 32 countries contributed to the research.
Respondents were predominantly residents of Ireland.
