I feel compelled to respond to this thread as a girl and a pilot. I can honestly say that all the way through school and university I was not only the only girl with asperations of being a commercial pilot, but practically the only person!
Whilst I agree that fewer girls are interested in flying, I have to say that one of the great things about aviation is the fact that it attracts such a varied and diverse fan base, this is not just about sex. When I was training in this country I was usually the only girl, but this was never an issue and in general I was treated on a par with all the rest. I was also fortunate in the fact that my parents have always stood by be whatever I chose to do.
I firmly believe that a love of flying is all one needs to get into this industry and that often comes from within. I don't think we should expect the cabin crew to want to be pilots, just like I don't think nurses should aspire to be doctors. Self motivation is very important in the commercial world and why push people into something they don't really want? All farmers sons don't now take over the farm! Change will happen because we want it to, not because we force people into it. Aviation is far too personal to be just about gender.
