On March 18, 2026, KLM Cityhopper organized 'Girls in Aviation Day' in collaboration with aircraft manufacturer Embraer, aiming to inspire young women to consider careers in aviation. The event provided high school girls aged 15 to 17 with hands-on experiences, including a hangar tour of a real Embraer aircraft, a workshop involving 3D printing, and engaging quizzes. Participants also met female aviation professionals such as flight crew and technicians, demonstrating the diverse opportunities within the industry.
Maarten Koopmans, managing director of KLM Cityhopper, emphasized the importance of exposing young women to aviation: “Aviation is dynamic, international, and technically challenging. Yet many women are unaware of career possibilities here. Girls in Aviation Day seeks to change that by showcasing the sector’s diversity and inspiring the next generation to join this exciting field.”
The event was well-received, with students expressing their newfound interest in aviation and technology, especially after conversing with female industry professionals. The initiative aligns with KLM’s diversity and inclusion policy, promoting equal opportunities across various roles. However, the industry still faces challenges: only 15% of pilots and 18% of technical staff at KLM Cityhopper are women, though the proportion is gradually increasing among younger age groups.
