Aviation is a cornerstone of global connectivity and innovation. The need for a highly skilled, diverse workforce to meet the sector’s growing demands has never been greater. Yet, women continue to be significantly underrepresented across technical, operational, and leadership roles, limiting the industry’s ability to draw on the full range of skills, talent, and perspectives needed for the future. Global action is required to confront these gaps, strengthen collaboration, and mobilize the sector toward lasting change.
Building off the momentum of the 2018 and 2023 Global Aviation Gender Summits, the ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026 in Luanda, Angola July 21-23 will bring together States, industry, and partners to advance dialogue on strengthening gender equality across the aviation sector. The event will offer an opportunity to reflect on progress made and identify areas where continued collaboration is needed to transition from declarations and commitments to measurable, accountable, and sustainable action.
Participants will explore emerging trends shaping the future of aviation and discuss how the right policies, workforce strategies, and leadership pathways can support greater participation of women in our sector. The Summit will spotlight the growing importance of data and shared knowledge in understanding and closing gender gaps worldwide. ICAO and its partners will introduce emerging tools and insights designed to support policies and practices across the sector to advance women’s empowerment.
Discussions will focus on strengthening skills, training, and career opportunities that prepare women and girls to thrive in the aviation ecosystem of tomorrow. The event will serve as a platform for showcasing initiatives that elevate women’s representation and leadership across regulatory, operational, and technical domains.
The Summit will inspire stronger partnerships and collective action to accelerate gender equality across global aviation.