Emirates promotes its first Emirati female captains, inspiring the next generation of women in aviation

Emirates has promoted its first Emirati female captains — Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri — both graduates of the airline’s National Cadet Pilot Programme. This marks a historic step in the carrier’s commitment to empowering Emirati women in aviation.

Hanan Mohammed Jawad
- Joined Emirates in 2008.
- Inspired at age 14 by the UAE’s first female pilot.
- Accumulated 9,253 flying hours.
- Promoted to Captain on the Boeing 777 fleet.
- Reflects on balance and growth, embracing new challenges like skiing and yoga alongside her aviation career.

Bakhita Al Mheiri
- Joined Emirates in 2011.
- Inspired by pioneering Emirati female pilots.
- Credits mentorship from senior captains for shaping her technical and leadership skills.
- Emphasizes passing knowledge forward to guide younger generations.
- Also promoted to Captain on the Boeing 777 fleet.

Leadership & Legacy
- Both captains highlight the UAE’s recognition of women as essential partners in shaping the nation’s future.
- Emirates’ National Cadet Pilot Programme (NCPP), launched in 1993, has produced many Emirati pilots who now serve as captains, trainers, and leaders.
- Capt Hassan Alhammadi, Emirates’ Divisional SVP Flight Operations, praised their achievement as a reflection of dedication and the airline’s ability to nurture Emirati talent.

Big Picture
This promotion is not just a personal milestone for Hanan and Bakhita — it’s a symbol of progress for Emirati women in aviation, reinforcing Emirates’ Emiratisation strategy and the UAE’s vision of building a sustainable national workforce.