From Cadets to Commanders: The Inspiring Journey of Emirates’ First Two Female Emirati Captains
Dubai: Captain Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Captain Bakhita Al Mheiri, two pioneering female Emirati captains at Emirates Airlines, reflect on their remarkable journey from cadet pilots to earning their fourth stripe. Their experiences underscore the transformative impact of the UAE’s leadership on national talent development in aviation.
The Dream Takes Flight
For Captain Hanan, the thrill of flying at 39,000 feet and witnessing sunrises over new countries is a defining joy of her career. She recalls a pivotal moment from her childhood when her father presented her with a photograph of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in a fighter aircraft. This image ignited her passion for aviation, but it was the sight of Captain Aysha Al Hameli, the first Emirati female pilot, on television that solidified her aspiration. At just 14, Hanan realized that she could follow in her footsteps.
Captain Bakhita’s inspiration came from a different source. A visit from the National Cadet Pilot Programme to her school at age 16 transformed her fascination with aviation into a tangible career path. She recognized that the program could help her achieve her dreams of becoming a pilot.
Training Future Commanders
Captain Hanan joined the Emirates Cadet Pilot Programme in 2008, followed by Captain Bakhita in 2011. Both captains emphasize that the program offered more than just flight training; it equipped them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in aviation. Captain Hanan highlighted the importance of learning from experienced instructors, stating that each flight contributed to her growth as a pilot.
Captain Bakhita noted that their training was designed to prepare them as future commanders. She expressed gratitude for the comprehensive support they received, which has been instrumental in their success.
Always Learning, Always Growing
The commitment to continuous learning remains a cornerstone of their careers. Captain Hanan actively seeks new challenges to enhance her skills, recently taking up skiing despite being a beginner. She believes that maintaining a learner’s mindset allows her to embrace feedback and improve her performance.
Captain Hanan stated that she has never felt she has reached the end of her learning journey. She views feedback as an opportunity for growth, striving to implement it in her flying.
Carrying the UAE Flag
Earning the fourth stripe represents more than a personal achievement for both captains; it symbolizes the UAE’s investment in nurturing national talent. Captain Bakhita acknowledged the vision of the UAE’s leaders, including President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, in creating opportunities for Emiratis to excel in various fields, including aviation.
She expressed her desire to inspire the next generation, emphasizing her willingness to support young aspiring pilots. Captain Bakhita stated that she is honored to pass on the knowledge and encouragement she received, ensuring that future generations feel empowered to pursue their dreams.
Captain Hanan also recognizes her role as a source of inspiration for young girls today. She encourages them to remain steadfast in their goals, work diligently, and not let fear dictate their choices. She echoed the sentiment of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, asserting that “impossible is not in our dictionaries.”
For more information on the inspiring journeys of Captain Hanan and Captain Bakhita, visit Emirates 24|7.
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Published on 2026-06-30 17:05:00 • By the Editorial Desk
