Christine O'Donovan

The results show that there has been an increase in the percentage of females in senior roles. This year, 23 per cent of those surveyed stated that the percentage of females in senior roles in their organisation is greater than 30 per cent, in 2019 only 16 per cent reported that.

The survey did highlight that there is still no major uptick in the number of respondents stating that they are part of a minority group.

A significant number of female/ minority group candidates were hired at entry level within the last twelve months, however recruitment at senior levels remained low. 53 per cent of those surveyed stated that less than ten per cent of their board of directors are female or from a minority group.

Diversity and inclusion committees are not yet commonplace within the industry, with 53 per cent reporting their organisation does not have one.

The effect of COVID-19 was also considered and the survey reflects a degree of pessimism within the aviation industry. The figures also revealed a disparity between the effect of working from home on men and women.

Commenting on the results, Christine O’Donovan, head of international asset finance and chair of Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, said: “Since our last survey in 2019, the aviation industry has experienced a sustained and significant shock. The industry continues to be severely impacted by the COVID-19 global pandemic and the timeline for full recovery is uncertain. The focus for many in the aviation sector is on survival and demonstrating resilience.

“Given Ireland’s position as an aviation hub, the recovery of the aviation industry is key to the recovery of Ireland as a whole. Business leaders, by advocating for and promoting a diverse workforce, can foster positivity and confidence amongst employees as we all work to get through the current crisis.

“The pandemic has shown that many employees operate very efficiently and effectively from their homes, and this may become a feature of their working lives into the future.

“As we emerge from the current crisis, the aviation sector, like many others, may of necessity avail of more flexible working arrangements. The survey results repeatedly demonstrate that achieving a good ‘work life balance’ remains a persistent issue in aviation and adapting roles and job specification to facilitate home-working and flexible hours can address this issue and bring about some positive change and improvements.

“The challenge now for leaders in the aviation industry is to keep diversity and inclusion high on their agendas. As a global industry, aviation can take the lead as we emerge from the crisis, embedding a culture of equality and inclusion that will ultimately help the industry recover and thrive into the future.”