IATA to Recognize Diversity and Inclusion Efforts

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents 83% of global air traffic, announced the 2023 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards, which aim to recognize inclusion initiatives in the industry. The organization is calling for submissions from individuals or organizations working in the aviation value chain. The deadline for applying is on April 19, 2023. 

“Diversity and inclusion are top priorities across the aviation industry, particularly as the industry competes for the next generation of talent to deliver the benefits of global connectivity. The IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards help accelerate progress by recognizing the leaders who are making a difference,” says Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA via a press release. 

The awards will be given in three categories. The first is the International Role Model Award, which aims to recognize a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry that made a strong contribution in support of the diversity and inclusion agenda. IATA specified that nominees are welcome from the entire aviation industry. 

The second is the High Flyer Award, which aims to recognize female aviation professionals under the age of 40. The recipient must be someone who has demonstrated leadership with concrete actions to promote diversity and inclusion in the industry. IATA clarified that all women in the industry that fulfill the requirements are eligible.

The third category is the Diversity & Inclusion Team Award, which will be given to an airline that has significantly improved its diversity and inclusion departments. This award is only open to IATA members. 

In Mexico, IATA has an official Training Center in Mexico City. The association explains that the country has tremendous potential to act as a regional hub, while its facilities offer opportunities to access IATA courses, according to IATA’s website. IATA has four airline members in Mexico: Aeroméxico, Volaris, MasAir and Aeromar. The last one recently filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, as reported by MBN.