2025 BWPA Scholarship winners announced

The British Women Pilots’ Association announces the winners of its 2025 aviation scholarships

The British Women Pilots’ Association (BWPA) is proud to announce the 35 recipients of its 2025 aviation scholarships, recognising talented women from across the UK who are taking the next steps in their flying journeys.

BWPA scholarships are designed to support women at different stages of their aviation careers — from gaining first qualifications, to progressing towards commercial pilot training, or developing additional flying skills. The programme reflects BWPA’s long-standing commitment to promoting women’s training, progression, and employment within the aviation sector.

Each year, a proportion of BWPA membership fees is dedicated to funding the scholarships, alongside support from partner individuals and organisations. Through this collective effort, BWPA aims not only to provide practical financial support, but also to raise awareness of the opportunities available to women in aviation and inspire future generations of pilots.

This year, almost 300 women applied for the scholarships. Applicants were invited to share details of their aviation experience, what they enjoy most about flying, why they felt they deserved an award, and how they would use the scholarship to further their goals. Submissions were reviewed by a judging panel, which shortlisted candidates demonstrating strong potential and commitment to a future in flying.

The 2025 scholarship winners represent a diverse and ambitious group, united by their passion for aviation and determination to succeed.

Amber Dash, BWPA Scholarship Coordinator, said:

“The standard of applications this year was exceptional. So many candidates showed real passion, resilience and clarity about where they want flying to take them. These scholarships are about more than funding — they’re about encouragement, confidence, and helping women see that there is a place for them in aviation.”

Annabel Cook, Chair of BWPA, added:

“Supporting women at key moments in their aviation journey is central to the BWPA’s purpose. By investing in these women, we’re helping to build a stronger, more inclusive future for aviation — one where opportunity is visible, accessible and actively encouraged.”

 

Notes for editors:

For more information, please visit bwpa.co.uk

Or contact Annabel Cook via Chairwoman@bwpa.co.uk

 

More information on the scholarships, the winners and how they plan to use their scholarships is available on the Scholarship Winners page:

bwpa.co.uk/scholarships/scholarship-winners-2025/

The BWPA is a membership organisation that exists to support women who fly or who are learning to fly, and to encourage participation in all areas of aviation and all types of flying. Members are involved in all areas of aviation, including commercial flying, recreational flying, instructing, air traffic control and engineering. Members are of all ages, experiences and backgrounds, but share a common passion. Membership fees support the BWPA in its outreach initiatives and help fund scholarships for female pilots across the country.

 

Quotes from sponsors:

 

Tim Dawson OBE – SkyDemon

“At SkyDemon our training scholarships are a big part of how we give back to our industry, and encourage future growth in general aviation. It’s been a pleasure working with the BWPA to help fund their scholarships and it was gratifying this year to be able to extend the number we can sponsor.”

 

Sebastian Pooley – Managing Director – Pooleys Flight Equipment Limited

“Pooleys is delighted to be supporting this year’s BWPA scholarships. Giving back to the industry that supports us is at the very heart of what we do and we look forward to following this year’s scholars as they embark on their aviation journeys.”

 

Gerry Cook’s family

“Gerry saw his daughter’s self-confidence grow through learning to fly and would have enjoyed encouraging a similar opportunity for another woman. We look forward to seeing the difference we can make to someone and how they go on to contribute to the aviation community in return.”