An international workshop titled “Empowering Women: A Transition to Aviation Security for Women in Egyptian Air Transport” opened on Thursday, in line with state efforts to expand women’s roles across sectors.
The event was held under the patronage of Minister of Civil Aviation Dr. Sameh Elhefny, in cooperation with the UK Department for Transport. It reflects Egypt’s push to develop human capital and increase women’s participation in specialized aviation fields in line with international standards.
Elhefny said empowering women is a central pillar in developing the civil aviation sector. He stressed that investing in human capital is key to improving performance and ensuring sustainable growth, particularly in security and safety.
He added that the initiative underscores Egypt’s commitment to women’s economic and social empowerment and to widening their access to specialized roles. He said such efforts support social equity and sustainable development. He also confirmed that similar programmes will continue to position women as active partners in national development and to strengthen the aviation sector’s regional and global competitiveness.
The workshop forms part of the ministry’s broader strategy to modernize aviation security. It focuses on strengthening workforce capabilities and increasing women’s representation in technical roles in line with global standards.
A panel discussion featured Salma El-Tahan, Head of the Central Department of Air Transport at the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, alongside female aviation professionals from the UK. Speakers examined women’s role in the sector, the challenges they face, and the opportunities ahead, drawing on international experience.
Participants said the modern aviation sector demands flexible leadership, strong safety awareness, effective communication, and the ability to perform under pressure. They also stressed the importance of innovation and team-building.
El-Tahan said women have consistently excelled across aviation fields. She noted that their role has evolved from participation to leadership, helping shape the sector’s future through diverse perspectives and new ideas aligned with international best practice.
The two-day workshop brought together women working in aviation security across the civil aviation sector and its affiliated companies, along with international experts from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, and related institutions.
Attendees included Eng. Yasser Abdel Halim, Head of the Central Administration of Aviation Security at the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority; Lamia Samy, Director General of International Relations at the Ministry of Civil Aviation; and representatives from the Ministry of Interior. Their presence reflects ongoing cooperation and supports the exchange of expertise at the international level.
The programme combined theoretical and practical training, focusing on the transfer of international expertise and best practices.
It covered key regulatory frameworks, including the Chicago Convention of 1944 and its Annex 17, as well as the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP).
Sessions also addressed airport security systems, screening technologies, risk analysis, threat response, and professional skills such as investigation, conflict management, and decision-making.
The workshop concluded with a ceremony honouring participants for their engagement and their grasp of international standards. Organizers stressed the importance of investing in women in this critical sector and strengthening their role in supporting aviation security and overall performance.
Short link: