Each year in early March, the aviation industry marks Women in Aviation Worldwide Week, alongside International Women’s Day, recognising the achievements of women across the sector while encouraging the next generation to consider careers in aviation.

Across Gama Aviation, women play an important role in operations throughout the organisation. Today, 22% of Gama Aviation’s workforce are women, with a clear ambition to increase this to 30% by 2030. Colleagues contribute across a wide range of roles and functions, including MRO, FBO operations, Aircraft Management, Charter, Special Missions, Technology & Outsourcing, as well as central teams such as Finance, Recruitment, HR, IT and other support services that underpin the organisation’s global operations.

To mark Women of Aviation Worldwide Week and International Women’s Day, we are sharing the experiences of six colleagues working in different roles across the business. In the video below, Evie Freeman, Group Director of Client Experience, introduces this year’s Women in Aviation feature and reflects on the importance of visibility, representation and opportunity within the aviation industry.

The following spotlight interviews offer a closer look at the career journeys of some of these colleagues and the experiences that have shaped their roles within Gama Aviation.

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Spotlight Interview 1

Lisa Humphries – Business Development Director

 

Lisa Humphries has spent more than four decades working in aviation. Beginning her career in airport operations, she later co-founded Capital Air Charter in 1991, developing the business into a specialist air ambulance and corporate charter operation. Following the company’s acquisition by Gama Aviation, Lisa now focuses on developing relationships with assistance companies and insurers supporting repatriation services within the Special Mission division.

Can you share a little about your role and career journey in aviation?

My career in aviation began in 1984 after completing a diploma in Travel and Tourism. I started working at Exeter Airport before joining Jersey European Airways (later Flybe) as an Operations Controller.

In 1991, my husband and I founded Capital Air Charter, operating corporate shuttle flights and air ambulance services using a mixed fleet of aircraft. Over the years, the business evolved to focus primarily on air ambulance work. Following its integration into Gama Aviation, my role now focuses on developing relationships with assistance companies and expanding the repatriation service offering.

What does Women of Aviation Week and International Women’s Day mean to you?

For me, it is a recognition of how far women have come in business and across many industries. When I started my career, aviation was very male-dominated, particularly in operational roles. It is encouraging to see women now working across every part of the industry.

What challenges have you faced during your career?

Working in operations earlier in my career could be challenging, as there were relatively few women in those environments. However, the industry has evolved significantly, and today, women are represented across many more roles.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in aviation?

Follow your ambition and make it happen. Aviation is not just a job — it is a way of life and an incredibly rewarding industry to be part of.

What has been a proud moment in your career?

Shortly after Capital became part of Gama Aviation, I was invited to attend a hangar opening in Canada with Latitude Air Ambulance. It demonstrated the value that Gama places on industry relationships and collaboration, and I was proud to represent the organisation.

 

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Spotlight Interview 2

Nikki Clark, Finance Director – Special Missions, Corporate & C&A

Nikki Clark joined Gama Aviation in 2009 as an Accounts Assistant and has progressed through a number of finance roles across the organisation. After gaining international experience working in Hong Kong while completing her accounting qualifications, she now serves as Finance Director supporting the Special Mission division.

Can you share a little about your role and career journey in aviation?

I joined Gama Aviation in 2009 and have been fortunate to grow my career within the organisation. During that time, I’ve worked in several finance roles both in Farnborough and Hong Kong while completing my accounting qualification. As my experience developed, I was able to take on increasing levels of responsibility, which ultimately led to my current role as Finance Director for Special Missions.

What attracted you to the aviation industry?

Interestingly, I first worked in aviation when I was 20 as cabin crew for British Airways. When I later returned to the industry to begin my finance career, it felt like a natural fit. Aviation is a fast-paced and dynamic sector, and I’ve always been drawn to the passion and energy of the people who work in it.

What does Women of Aviation Week and International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary women around us who inspire and support us both professionally and personally.

What challenges have you faced in aviation?

Aviation is still a male-dominated industry, and there have been times when I’ve found myself as the only woman in the room. Rather than seeing that as a barrier, I see it as an opportunity to bring a different perspective to discussions and decision-making.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in aviation?

Absolutely go for it. Aviation offers an incredible range of career paths, and you will work alongside passionate people who genuinely care about what they do.

What has been a proud moment in your career?

Moving to Hong Kong to lead the finance function was a defining moment. It was both a professional challenge and a personal adventure, and it gave me invaluable experience that has shaped my career.

 

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Spotlight Interview 3

Amelia Lowry – Mechanical Design Engineer

Amelia Lowry is a Mechanical Design Engineer within Gama Aviation’s Part 21J Design Organisation. After beginning her career in the marine industry, she moved into aviation to pursue her passion for aircraft engineering and now works on specialist design projects supporting air ambulance operations.

Can you share a little about your role and career journey?

I work as a Mechanical Design Engineer within the design team. Before joining aviation, I worked in the marine industry, but I had always been fascinated by aircraft. When the opportunity came to join Gama Aviation, I knew it was the right move.

Today, I work on design projects that support air ambulance charities and contracts. Knowing that our work contributes to aircraft that ultimately help people in need is incredibly rewarding.

What does Women of Aviation Week and International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s very important for people to feel represented in their industry. When I was growing up, I wanted to work in engineering, but I didn’t have many female role models to look up to. Seeing more women in aviation today helps inspire the next generation.

What challenges have you faced during your career?

Like many people in technical fields, I have experienced moments of impostor syndrome. Fortunately, I work with a very supportive team, and that encouragement makes a big difference.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in aviation?

Don’t let the fact that it is traditionally male-dominated put you off. What matters is your passion, work ethic and willingness to learn.

What has been a proud moment in your career so far?

Working on the SAS contract aircraft over the past year has been a highlight. Seeing the aircraft delivered after contributing to the design, including the medical interiors and liveries, has been incredibly rewarding.

 

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Spotlight Interview 4

Elizabeth Mehmood – Head of FBO Aviation Security

Elizabeth Mehmood leads aviation security for Gama Aviation’s FBO operations in Glasgow and Jersey. With more than two decades of experience in aviation security, including nine years with the UK Department for Transport working internationally, she brings deep operational expertise to the organisation.

Can you share a little about your role and career journey?

I currently lead aviation security across our FBO operations in Glasgow and Jersey, ensuring compliance and supporting teams operating in what can often be fast-paced environments. My career in aviation security spans more than 20 years and includes working internationally across Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.

What attracted you to aviation?

I was drawn to aviation because it is an industry where what you do truly matters. Safety, precision and teamwork are not abstract concepts — they are part of everyday operations.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in aviation?

Aviation security remains a male-dominated field, particularly in operational and regulatory settings. There have been times where I was the only woman in the room and had to establish technical credibility. Over time, I’ve learned that preparation, consistency and integrity build respect.

What advice would you give to women considering aviation careers?

Be confident in your capability even before you feel completely ready. Seek mentors, build networks and take opportunities that stretch you.

What has been a proud moment in your career?

Seeing teams develop and grow in confidence is incredibly rewarding. Helping to build a culture of professionalism and accountability within aviation security is something I’m very proud of.

 

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Spotlight Interview 5

Hannah Lunn – Senior Medical Services Coordinator

Hannah Lunn works within Gama Aviation’s Special Missions repatriation team, coordinating complex air ambulance missions. With experience in both aviation and healthcare, she brings a unique perspective to the role.

Can you share a little about your career journey?

I first became interested in aviation after travelling through an airport at a young age. After studying aviation at college, I worked in several aviation roles before moving into the ambulance service. Eventually, I realised I missed aviation and decided to combine both interests by moving into air ambulance operations.

What challenges have you faced in the industry?

Earlier in my career, I experienced situations where opportunities were limited due to gender representation considerations rather than performance. However, that did not deter me from continuing to pursue a career in aviation.

What does Women of Aviation Week mean to you?

It recognises the resilience, determination and professionalism of women working in a traditionally male-dominated industry. It also shows the next generation that there is a place for them in aviation.

What advice would you give to women considering aviation?

If you are interested in aviation, pursue it. There are many different career paths available, and the industry benefits from diverse perspectives.

What has been a proud moment in your role?

Successfully coordinating an air ambulance mission from start to finish is incredibly rewarding. Knowing you have helped deliver critical care transport for someone in need is something you never take for granted.

 

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Spotlight Interview 6

Emma Crewdson, First Officer – Special Mission

 

Emma Crewdson joined Gama Aviation in 2025 as a First Officer flying the King Air aircraft supporting the Scottish Air Ambulance service. With more than 25 years of experience across airline operations, aviation regulation and airport projects, Emma brings a uniquely diverse aviation career to the cockpit.

Can you share a little about your aviation journey?

I began my flying career as a cadet pilot before joining Air 2000 as a First Officer, later flying Airbus and Boeing aircraft across Europe for many years. During my career I also worked in air traffic services, aviation regulation and airport operations.

Despite the variety of roles I had undertaken, there was always one ambition that remained — to fly air ambulance missions. Joining Gama Aviation allowed me to finally achieve that goal.

What attracted you to aviation?

Flying has always been part of my life. My father was a stunt pilot in the film industry, my brother flew for the London Air Ambulance and my mother gained her pilot licence at a time when very few women were flying.

What does Women of Aviation Week mean to you?

It is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women across aviation while continuing to highlight the work still needed to achieve true equality. Visibility is important — if sharing our experiences inspires even one young woman to pursue aviation, it is worthwhile.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in aviation?

Aviation offers a huge range of opportunities. Be proactive, seek mentors and don’t be afraid to try different roles. The more you explore the industry, the more rewarding your career can become.

What has been a proud moment in your career?

Every air ambulance mission is meaningful, but being part of a team that transports newborn babies requiring specialist medical care is particularly humbling and rewarding.

How would you reflect on your role at Gama Aviation?

It is an honour to provide such an invaluable emergency service to people in need who live in remote areas, and to fly such an exciting plane with like-minded professionals in such spectacular locations is thrilling.  Therefore, the combination of the role is so fulfilling.

 

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While these six interviews highlight individual experiences across different areas of the organisation, they represent only a small part of the many women contributing to Gama Aviation’s success every day.

Across the Group, women work in operational, technical and leadership roles throughout the business — from engineering, flight operations and aviation security to aircraft management, charter operations, technology, finance and a wide range of specialist support functions.

Women of Aviation Worldwide Week and International Women’s Day provide an opportunity to recognise these contributions while encouraging more young people to explore the many career paths available within aviation. At Gama Aviation, the continued growth of women across the organisation reflects an ongoing commitment to developing talent and ensuring the industry remains open to everyone with the ambition to be part of it.