Emirates Promotes First Two Emirati Female Pilots to Captain

Emirates has promoted two Emirati female pilots to the rank of captain, marking a historic milestone for the airline and for women in UAE aviation. Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri are now the first Emirati female captains at Emirates, both operating the Boeing 777 fleet.

Both pilots entered the airline through the Emirates Group's National Cadet Pilot Programme (NCPP), a fully funded initiative launched in 1993 that has developed numerous Emirati commercial pilots. Hanan joined in 2008 and has accumulated 9,253 flying hours over her career. Bakhita began her journey as a cadet in 2011, progressing steadily through the ranks over more than a decade.

"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," said Hanan. "Receiving my fourth stripe is a proud milestone, but I don't see it as the destination. This is just the beginning."

Bakhita credited mentorship as a defining element of her career: "My journey at Emirates has been deeply influenced by the mentorship and guidance I received from exceptional training captains and leaders. One of the most meaningful lessons I gained was the importance of passing knowledge and experience forward."

Captain Hassan Alhammadi, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, called the achievement a reflection of years of dedication and professionalism, and said the cadet programme remains central to the airline's strategy for developing Emirati talent from entry level to the highest leadership roles.

Both captains have called on the next generation of aspiring female pilots to pursue their ambitions, noting that Emirates' leadership has long recognized women as essential partners in shaping the UAE's future.