Over 33,000 Attendants Participated in the 2024 Annual Event

The 10th annual Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) event, hosted by Women in Aviation International, reached record attendance numbers with over 33,000 worldwide participants.

Members from 194 Women in Aviation International chapters organized and held their own GIAD event on September 21. 59 of these were overseas across 33 different countries, with the other 135 in the US and various US territories. These took place at airports, museums, FBOs, and hangars.

The annual event was designed as part of Women in Aviation International’s plan to inspire girls to pursue aviation and aerospace careers. All are invited to participate, though activities are geared towards girls ages 8 to 17.

Participants are given the opportunity to learn about a wide range of careers and lifestyles by speaking with female industry professionals, attending seminars and panels, and exploring their local aviation presence. Each event has its own STEM and aviation exhibitors along with static aircraft displays.

GIAD also contains several hands-on activities, including chart treasure hunts, simulator discovery flights, and lessons on power plants, avionics, and weather systems. 

“Our Girls in Aviation Day events continue to have an incredible impact, igniting excitement and curiosity in each young participant as they explore the world of aviation,” expressed Lynda Coffman, CEO of WAI. “We are deeply grateful to our chapter members, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters whose dedication and generosity made this day possible. Together, we are not only sparking dreams but also building a stronger, more inclusive future for aviation.”

WAI introduced the Girls in Aviation Day tradition in 2015. The first event was hosted in 32 locations and had a total attendance of 3,200. It has grown significantly every year since, with last year’s participation reaching more than 30,000 across 168 events in 31 countries worldwide.

FMI: www.wai.org/giad