Emirates airlines’ first Emirati female captains

Emirates has promoted two Emirati female pilots to captains.

And a spokesperson for the airline says it is an important step in its commitment to empowering Emirati women in aviation.

Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri both came through the Emirates Group’s National Cadet Pilot Program, which was launched in 1993, is fully funded by the Emirates Group and has graduated many (male) Emirati pilots.

Hanan and Bakhita have both officially received their fourth stripe this year, becoming the first Emirati female captains at Emirates.

And they both fly Boeing 777s.

+ Hanan joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet pilot program, having had a lifelong dream of flying. There is strong mentorship and support within the program, and she worked her way up through the ranks, building her career.

+ Bakhita Al Mheiri began her journey with Emirates as a cadet pilot in 2011. Driven by a passion for flying, she achieved one milestone after another, rising to the rank of captain.

HANAN’S STORY

Hanan, who has now accumulated more than 9250 flying hours, says: “When I was 14, I saw the UAE’s first female pilot on TV and was struck by her confidence and presence. From that point on, all I wanted was to become a pilot.

“Receiving my fourth stripe is a proud milestone but I don’t see it as the destination. This is just the beginning, I don’t believe the sky is the limit. The path to command is built over time, and my years as a first officer prepared me for this moment.”

She also reflects on how she has grown, professionally and personally: “You change as you grow, and that’s a strength. When I was younger, I loved drawing and reading.

“Today, I challenge myself in new ways. I’ve recently started skiing and I’m still a beginner, I enjoy being in that learning space.

“Balance matters to me now. I’ve moved from intense gym training to practices that build focus and calm yoga — aerial yoga, Pilates, and reformer. They support the clarity, discipline and presence my role demands.”

BAKHITA’S STORY

Bakhita says she has received mentorship and guidance from exceptional training captains and leaders: “Their experience, professionalism,and willingness to share knowledge and experience not only strengthened my technical and leadership skills but also shaped me personally by teaching me the value of responsibility, discipline and continuous learning.

“One of the most meaningful lessons I gained throughout this journey was the importance of passing knowledge and experience forward.

“With the opportunity and responsibility I have been given as a captain, I hope to carry forward the same values and mentorship that were invested in me, and to support and guide the younger generations beginning their own flying journey, so they too can continue contributing to the future and success of the UAE.”

And there is a joint message from Hanan and Bakhita to the next generation of aspiring female pilots: “Our leadership has long recognised women as essential partners in shaping our nation’s future, and Emirates is creating the environment and opportunities for women to thrive, and we will continue to build on this for future generations.”