At the recent AIX and Viasat’s Women in Aviation panel, a diverse group of industry leaders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of aviation. The Women in Aviation panel, moderated by Michelle Munoz-Talcott, Senior Director of Marketing at Viasat, featured insights from influential figures in the sector.
Women in Aviation: Pioneering Perspectives at AIX Panel
Key Topics Discussed:
- Technology and Innovation: Panelists explored how advancements are shaping airline brands and customer experiences.
- Leadership: The conversation delved into the attributes that constitute effective leadership within the aviation industry.
- Career Advice: For newcomers to aviation, the panelists shared invaluable guidance to navigate and succeed in this dynamic field.
Panelists’ Contributions:
- Mariya Stoyinova, a member of the Crystal Cabin Awards jury and former JetBlue executive, emphasized the importance of customer-centric innovation.
- Julieta McCurry, VP of In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity Strategy at Delta Airlines, highlighted the role of connectivity in enhancing in-flight services.
- Helga Huld Bjarnadóttir, Director of Product and Service Management at Icelandair, discussed the integration of product development with customer satisfaction.
The session not only provided a platform for these leaders to share their experiences but also served as an inspiration for women aspiring to make their mark in the world of aviation. The panel underscored the significance of diversity and inclusion in driving the industry forward. The event concluded with a series of impactful quotes from the panelists, accompanied by images that captured the essence of the discussion.
AIX Women in Aviation panel : quotes
What’s your one piece of advice for someone starting out in the aviation industry?
Mariya Stoyinova: “Never stop growing, and find new ways to grow. There’s ways to grow in everything. Failures and missteps are the best lessons. When you get comfortable, question if you’re too comfortable.”
Julieta McCurry: “Follow opportunity – you need to say yes to more things than no, and to trust your gut. If you see something you really like, be it a project or a role, raise your hand. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.”
Helga Huld Bjarnadóttir: “Opportunities are everywhere, never stop looking for them. Most of the opportunities in my career would not have come unless I raised my hand, made myself visible, and had others bringing me along the way. Find the people who match you and who match your passion and growth.”
What makes an effective leader?
Julieta: “To be effective as a leader, you need to build a great team – a team of highly talented individuals who complement your skills and each other’s skills. Also, authenticity is so important – I don’t think competence is enough, especially when you’re working on things that are innovation driven or net new. How do you make sure your team is willing to take the risks, and dive in, and know that they’re supported?”
Mariya: “This industry is not for the weak of heart! Persistence is so important. We often hear, “No that can’t be done”. But in my vocabulary, no means ‘find another way to do it’. No should not stop you, ever. We need to break through a lot of walls and build things quicker.”
What more can the industry do to support women?
Helga: “Parental leave is very different between countries, but it’s vital for people of all genders who want to start families to have the opportunity to leave and come back, with the necessary support – without it having an effect on their career development. Companies also need to have thorough plans on training, mentorship, development programmes, and more for women.”
What would the future of aviation look like with more women at the top?
Helga: “Having more females on board gives you more teamwork, more views on things, and more ways of doing things. It’s not just about females, but all genders. To have this diversity benefits us in all aspects of decision making and innovation.”
Mariya: “We all bring something different to the table, not just for gender equality but for diversity of thought. Everybody is so unique and brings a unique perspective, which prevents tunnel vision. Diversity of thought is critical. That said, women bring a different type of skillset – we’re just built differently.”
What’s the impact of technology on airlines’ brands?
Julieta: “It’s all about experience. We have an ambition to become not just a loved brand but an experience brand – and technology plays a big role in that, in the inflight experience especially. Customers are pushing us to think about loyalty differently. They’re seeing membership experiences as another benefit to loyalty. In addition to the core benefits of miles and status, they are leaning into in-the-moment experiences like fast, free Wi-Fi and Delta Sync. »
Mariya: “Every moment from the travel journey is an opportunity for you to build your brand. Technology is helping to engage customers, but also to reduce friction. It’s that combination of the human aspect and technology. I’m looking forward to us infusing technology more and more in the travel journey, while also increasing hospitality and the human touch.”
