Nicky Hughes, Pilot

As a commercial pilot – who flies transatlantic routes for Aer Lingus – Nicky Hughes is in a minority: women account for under 6% of airline commercial pilots globally, though that figure may be improving. In the United States, 12% of pilot students are women, and 10-12% of Aer Lingus pilots are women.

Nicky always had an interest in aircraft and flying as a child. She knew when she finished school that she wanted to be a pilot. After finishing university, Nicky began her flight training in Dublin and completed her private pilot’s licence. Shortly afterwards, she qualified for a cadetship programme with Aer Lingus. Within two years, Nicky began flying as a First Officer on the Airbus 320 and 321. Currently she is a transatlantic pilot for flying to destinations like, Chicago, San Francisco and New York and still loving every minute of the job.

When I’m not working, I’m a wife, a mum, a daughter, a sister and a friend. I try my best each day in all these roles but it's never perfect. Then again,there's always tomorrow.

Photo: Beta Bajgart