In a groundbreaking move, Oxford Aviation Academy has opened its doors to Saudi women, allowing them to pursue their dreams of becoming licensed pilots. Among the trailblazing students is 19-year-old Amirah Al-Saif, who aspires to join the ranks of Saudi Arabia’s pioneering female pilot, Yasmeen Al-Maimani, who became the Kingdom’s first female commercial pilot.With aspirations of flying for Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, Amirah Al-Saif has embarked on a journey that was once considered beyond reach for Saudi women. Her determination and the supportive environment at the aviation academy are propelling her closer to achieving her dream.
Amirah is part of the inaugural group of 49 female students, and six of them have already begun their ground school training. The rigorous program, designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in aviation, includes subjects like English, Mathematics, Physics, and other fundamental topics.Hailing from Riyadh, Amirah Al-Saif is not only pursuing her dream but also breaking familial ground as the first member of her family to express a keen interest in the aviation industry. Her pursuit of this passion is a testament to the changing landscape of opportunities for Saudi women.Unlike some of her predecessors, Amirah does not need to leave the Kingdom to receive her pilot training. This remarkable development marks a significant step forward in enabling Saudi women to access aviation education and training within their own country.The foundation program sets the stage for aspiring pilots, testing their aptitude and dedication. Successful completion of this phase grants them access to ground school, where they receive practical flight training.
The program’s goal is to produce well-rounded pilots who, upon graduation in approximately two years, will hold three essential licenses: the Private Pilot License, Instrument Rating, and Commercial Pilot License.Amirah Al-Saif’s journey exemplifies the changing tide of opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, where doors that were previously closed are now opening wide. Her aspirations to fly for Saudia reflect the growing ambitions of Saudi women to contribute to the Kingdom’s aviation industry.With women like Amirah breaking barriers and pursuing careers in aviation, Saudi Arabia is poised to see a new generation of skilled female pilots take to the skies. This transformative shift not only empowers women but also strengthens the aviation sector, bringing fresh talent and diversity to an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated.Amirah’s story underscores the significance of accessible aviation training facilities like Oxford Aviation Academy, which has played a pivotal role in advancing gender inclusivity in the field. The academy’s location at the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam makes aviation education more accessible to aspiring female pilots, setting the stage for a brighter future in Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape.As the first batch of female students at the academy prepares to earn their licenses by early 2021, the Kingdom is witnessing a historic moment in aviation.
These determined women are not only fulfilling their personal dreams but also contributing to the broader goal of diversifying and expanding Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry.The story of Amirah Al-Saif and her fellow female students serves as an inspiration for women across Saudi Arabia who dare to dream big and aim for the skies. As they shatter stereotypes and overcome challenges, they are proving that gender is no barrier to success in the world of aviation.In the years to come, these trailblazing female pilots will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Saudi women to pursue careers in aviation, fostering a culture of empowerment and equality in the skies above the Kingdom.
