History in the Air: Emirates Names First Emirati Women to Serve as Captains

Emirates has reached a major milestone in its efforts to develop local aviation talent, promoting two Emirati pilots, Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri, to the rank of captain.

The pair have officially received their fourth stripes, becoming the first Emirati women to serve as captains at Emirates. Both now command the airline's Boeing 777 fleet after progressing through the carrier's National Cadet Pilot Program.

Hanan Mohammed Jawad, one of the first female captains at Emirates. Photo: Emirates

Hanan joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet program and has accumulated more than 9,250 flight hours during her career. Reflecting on her achievement, she recalled the moment that inspired her aviation journey.

"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," she said.

While reaching the rank of captain is a significant achievement, Hanan said she views it as another step in her career rather than the finish line.

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

Bakhita, who joined the cadet program in 2011, credited much of her success to the mentorship she received throughout her training and career development.

"My journey at Emirates has been deeply influenced by the mentorship and guidance I received from exceptional training captains and leaders," she said, adding that she hopes to pass on that knowledge to future generations of pilots.

The two captains also shared a message for aspiring female aviators, highlighting the opportunities available to women in the UAE aviation sector and encouraging the next generation to pursue their ambitions.

Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, Hassan Alhammadi, described the promotions as a landmark achievement for both the airline and the country's aviation industry.

"We are immensely proud of Hanan and Bakhita for becoming Emirates' first Emirati female captains," he said. "It reflects years of dedication, professionalism and hard work."

Launched in 1993, Emirates' National Cadet Pilot Program has trained generations of Emirati pilots, many of whom have gone on to become captains, instructors, and senior aviation leaders across the UAE.