Women In Aviation. Women. When are they going to change the title? Keep us white males out like reverse Augusta National style.

What are the feelings of the female aviators when the dudes show up? Do white guys go to OBAP? Sincere question. Just asking.

First, it's the Women in Aviation International CONFERENCE.... Not job fair. For years this has been an event for women in all fields of avaition. Women who are still a minority with not only the piloting field but also maintenance, air traffic controllers, engineers ... Etc. It's a way for many of them to share their stories and help the next generation. In the past, it has not been treated as the job fair it was last year or will be this year.

That being said, I do realize its one of the only places all the major airlines supply recruiters to chat with pilot candidates (and all fields), presenting itself as an amazing opportunity for pilots to have a shot at being noticed during this difficult time in our industry.

As a women and a 13 year member (6 time attendee) who DID move to the front of the line when it was offered, I have zero issues with men attending and treating it as a job fair. We all need every bit of help we can get. But attempt to not loose all class and criticize the people who are actually giving you this opportunity at their WOMEN in Aviation International Conference. A bit of respect goes a long way.

Also, the attire is suit and tie... No exceptions if your goal is a job at a major airline.

Nope. If you require the same membership and attendance fees of me, I should get the same queue treatment as everyone else. Anything else is incredibly tacky and a real turn-off to potential supporters of your organization, which is what attendees are: supporters of WIA. You're welcome! :)

Well said, couldn't agree more. And it goes for the select few females from last year's conference that could heard voicing their frustration over the male's attendance while lined up.

Respect is a two way street.

I am not trying to stir any pot, just find it funny that you capped "WOMEN". Reason?

Yes, GIVING me an opportunity? I paid for 3 days, and as I recall it was near $400 that 'gift,' cost me. Make no mistake, my eyes are wide open, and I get the two-way street (and am happy to support ANY aviation organization), but the minor issue we're talking about was mishandled.

I completely agree. This is a conference for women and by women, and since women are underrepresented in the industry they absolutely should get priority to speak with the airlines. I liked when they moved the women to the front of the line last year as well. If anyone thinks this is unfair, consider the alternative of there not being a conference at all. Also consider that you will be viewed as just whining :p

Sorry, clarify?

What was mishandled? The sheer logistics of so many people? Or those that lacked the social grace and couth? The funny thing is, they were RJ FO's IIRC. And it was a small group, not at all indicative of all the great people there. But the irony was good.

The decision to actively market the event to men (so we could help $upport the cause), and then push us to the back of the line after our money was in hand.

It's their show, and their call. I just wouldn't have done it that way. And the notion that we men were somehow crashing is very flawed. I specifically checked before I went, to ensure men were quite welcome (and it was overall a positive experience, no question).

This year, it sounds like a better setup. Unless they yank women from the middle and back of the FASTPASS lines each morning...

Women in aviation Conference 2014
 

Just a note, Fast Pass is for members only.

That being said, anyone can become a member.

I think women should get first dibs on the Fast Passes… regardless of middle or back of line, but thats just me I guess.