Emirates names first Emirati female pilots as captains

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Emirates names first Emirati female pilots as captains

June 4, 2026

DUBAI,— Emirates has promoted two Emirati women to the rank of captain, a move the airline said marks a significant step in its efforts to advance women in aviation.

Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri became the first Emirati female captains at Emirates, both now commanding the Boeing 777 fleet, the airline said in a statement Thursday.

The two pilots rose through Emirates Group’s National Cadet Pilot Programme, an initiative the airline said has graduated a number of Emirati pilots over the years.

Jawad joined the airline in 2008 as a cadet pilot, driven by ambition and a longstanding desire to fly.

With support from the airline’s fleet management and mentorship along the way, she built her career steadily over the years. She has logged a total of 9,253 flying hours throughout her career.

Al Mheiri began her journey with the airline in 2011 as a cadet pilot.

Inspired by accomplished Emirati female pilots before her and driven by her passion for aviation, she continued reaching milestones, building what the airline described as a strong and successful career.

Both pilots received their fourth stripe this year.

Jawad said her interest in aviation was sparked at age 14 when she saw the UAE’s first female pilot on television.

“I was struck by her confidence and presence. From that point on, all I wanted was to become a pilot,” Jawad said in the statement.

She described her promotion not as a final destination but as a new 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 said.

Jawad also reflected on her personal growth alongside her professional career, noting she has shifted from high-intensity training toward practices focused on balance and mental clarity, including yoga, aerial yoga, Pilates and reformer training.

“Balance matters to me now. They support the clarity, discipline, and presence my role demands,” she said.

Al Mheiri credited the guidance she received throughout her career at Emirates for shaping both her professional skills and personal values.

“My journey at Emirates has been deeply influenced by the mentorship and guidance I received from exceptional training captains and leaders throughout my flying and command journey,” she said.

Al Mheiri said their experience and willingness to share knowledge strengthened her technical and leadership abilities.

“It taught me the value of responsibility, discipline, and continuous learning,” she added.

The airline said both captains reflect strong determination and that their ambitions continue to grow as they advance in their careers.

(With files from Emirates)