After 16,000 Participate in Sept. 24 Event, GIAD Relaunches Educational App for Continuous Learning

Women in Aviation International's 8th Annual Girls in Aviation Day was another success for the growing group, filling their nationwide September 24 festivities with more than 16,000 attendees.

The events, hosted by WAI chapters and corporate members, prompted WAI leadership to relaunch their Aviation for Girls application to enable young learners’ educational experience for year-round support. Capping off the change, the WAI launched a new, no-cost Junior membership level for those aged 18 and below that grants all the benefits of regular membership.

Throughout the country more than 120 discrete events took place  in airports, FBOs, museums, and hangars, with 19 countries joining in the fun. In keeping with WAI goals, girls around the world were introduced to the career and lifestyle possibilities in aviation and aerospace by meeting female role models, listening to career panels, and exploring airplanes and airports. Most locations offered a wide array of hands-on, fun and educational activities that integrated aviation systems and knowledge while holding children's attention. 

The newly launched Aviation for Girls App features digital issues of Aviation for Girls magazine, aviation and STEM activities, videos of female aviators, aviation books, virtual tours of manufacturers, museums, and airports, information about WAI scholarships, and a timeline of Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees.

“We know that Girls in Aviation Day has been instrumental in lighting the spark of interest in aviation and aerospace where girls are introduced to all the various career possibilities in a positive and fun event that is a trademark of our WAI chapters and corporate members,” said WAI CEO Allison McKay.

“Seeing the excitement from the attendees of our Girls in Aviation Day events, we can now continue to engage them throughout the year with our Aviation for Girls App, free Junior membership, and all the WAI resources. Our programs, in addition to the work of our industry partners, will finally change the face of this industry.”

FMI: www.WAI.org