DUBAI- Emirates Airline (EK) has promoted two Emirati female pilots, Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri, to the rank of captain. Both pilots are now operating the Boeing 777 fleet from the airline’s main hub at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
The two captains advanced through the Emirates Group’s National Cadet Pilot Programme (NCPP), a fully funded training initiative. Their promotion marks a significant milestone in the carrier’s effort to support Emirati women in commercial aviation.
First Emirati Women to Command at Emirates
Hanan and Bakhita both received their fourth stripe this year, becoming the first Emirati female captains at the airline. Each pilot built her career over more than a decade of service.
Hanan Mohammed Jawad joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet pilot programme. She progressed steadily through the ranks with mentorship and support from the airline’s fleet management. Hanan has accumulated 9,253 flying hours throughout her career.
Bakhita Al Mheiri began her journey as a cadet pilot in 2011. Inspired by earlier Emirati female pilots and driven by her passion for flying, she reached one milestone after another to build a strong career with the airline.
Reflections on the Journey to Command
Hanan described her promotion as a proud milestone rather than a final destination. She recalled watching the UAE’s first female pilot on television at age 14, an image that shaped her ambition to fly. She noted that her years as a First Officer prepared her for command.
Hanan also spoke about personal growth, sharing that she recently took up skiing and enjoys yoga, Pilates, and reformer practice to build focus and calm. She said these activities support the clarity and discipline her role demands.
Bakhita credited her development to the mentorship she received from training captains and leaders during her flying and command journey.
She said the experience strengthened her technical and leadership skills while teaching her the value of responsibility and continuous learning. Bakhita added that she hopes to guide younger pilots beginning their own careers.
Leadership Backs Emirati Talent Development
Capt Hassan Alhammadi, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President Flight Operations, commented on the achievement. He said the airline has always committed to developing UAE Nationals as part of its professional workforce.
He described the cadet pilot programme as a vital path for young men and women pursuing careers as commercial pilots. Alhammadi added that the airline is proud of Hanan and Bakhita, whose achievements reflect years of dedication and hard work.
About the National Cadet Pilot Programme
Launched in 1993, the NCPP is a fully funded initiative by the Emirates Group. The programme has graduated many Emirati pilots who have moved on to become captains, training pilots, and senior leaders at Emirates and across the UAE aviation industry.
The programme offers comprehensive flight training at Emirates’ Flight Training Academy. It combines world-class instruction, advanced technology, and rigorous safety standards.
Cadets are guided from foundational theory through hands-on flying experience, and they also train at Emirates’ new pilot training centre.
The Emirates Group Emiratisation Strategy
The Emirates Group’s Emiratisation strategy focuses on building a sustainable national workforce through structured career pathways, world-class training, and continuous development.
Programmes such as the NCPP, leadership initiatives, and graduate schemes nurture Emirati talent from early career through to senior roles.
Mentorship and exposure to global best practices ensure Emiratis are equipped to thrive in a competitive aviation environment. This supports both the Group’s growth and the UAE’s long-term vision.
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