Meet Katherine Moloney, the visionary behind Elevate(her) Aviation

Katherine Moloney, the visionary behind Elevate(her) Aviation, discovered her passion for flying at the age of 18. It all began with a trial lesson in a helicopter while she was working in the warehouse for Transair Flight Equipment. That single flight altered the trajectory of her career forever.

What inspired you to pursue aviation as a career path?

Initially, my career in the aviation industry started by packing aviation product orders in the warehouse for Transair Flight Equipment. It was during this time at Transair that I was inspired to do a trial flying lesson at Shoreham Airport, and I quickly developed a true passion for flying. I believe that working in aviation is vocational. Once you experience it, you are forever drawn back to aviation! - It is a privilege to work in an industry with so many passionate people. 

Can you describe what it’s like to be emerging in the aviation industry?

The aviation industry at the moment is a very exciting place to be. There is so much innovation and it is more inclusive. With the creation of new initiatives and growing communities like Elevate(her) the aviation industry has never been more supportive of encouraging woman into the many roles available, from pilots to engineers and air traffic controllers.

The UK Aviation industry is facing many challenges over the coming years. We can only meet these upcoming challenges by being able to access the breadth of talent within the UK, no matter who you are or your background.

You mentioned that you had built Airfix Models in the past, do you have a particular memory around this?

I remember helping my dad build Airfix models, mostly of early military jets which is his passion. I also have an Airfix Bulldog Kit on my office bookshelf from 1970 and I think it’s wonderful!

As a female pilot what unique challenges or barriers have you come across in your career?

I have been very fortunate in my career that my instructors, and mentors (all men) have been the most wonderful, and supportive. However, I am aware that there still are issues within the aviation industry today, and not every woman in aviation has had that same experience.

One challenge I have faced is one of lack of opportunity to connect with other likeminded women in aviation. This led me to where I am today with Elevate(her).

What prompted you to start Elevate(her)?

After I finished my helicopter pilots license in 2018 and fixed wing pilots license in 2022. I was feeling a lack of connection with other likeminded women in aviation. Again, this is not to detract from my fantastic male instructors’ during my flight training. However, there is a wonderful feeling in connecting with others like yourself.

This prompted me to host my inaugural lunch for women in aviation at Brighton City Airport in 2022. I sent out an open invitation for any women in aviation to attend. I hired a room, and I was absolutely delighted when we had 40 women attend from all walks of the aviation industry.

The atmosphere was electric, and I learned that day that there were many other women who were having the same feelings of disconnection that I was. It was those incredible women I spoke to on that day that inspired me to take the initiative forward in a more meaningful way, and that is how Elevate(her) was created.

Can you talk us through your aspirations for Elevate(her)?

This may sound bizarre, but my aspiration for Elevate(her) is for it to no longer be needed! However, until that day, we strive to support, inform and connect as many women globally as we can.

What brings you the most joy in your career?

Seeing my friends and colleagues achieve their goals honestly makes me so happy. I am fortunate with Elevate(her) that I am able to follow many women's stories through their flight training, studying and overcoming challenges to achieve their dreams.

In a traditionally male-dominated industry, how do you approach building relationships and earning respect among your peers and colleagues?

I would say this is the same for being in a male dominated industry or not! I always strive to help where I can, be polite, and respect those around me. However, I believe in not being afraid to share your own thoughts and opinions with others.

Who are some of your aviation heroes?

There are so many! Women in aviation today stand on the shoulders of giants, and I am in awe of our predecessors’ courage and determination which allows us to fly today. I particularly admire the women who were in the ATA. Each and every one of them is a heroin.

And who would you love to meet one day?

This is a hard question! There are so many inspirational woman, past and present, but Jackie Moggridge who is sadly no longer with us really inspired me to never give up on your dreams. Through my work at Elevate(her) I have met so many incredible women who have achieved so much that it would be hard to name just one. However, I jump at the chance to speak to a female astronaut one day.

What advice would you give to other women who aspire to become pilots?

My advice would be the same to anyone starting out in aviation, and that is take every opportunity you can! You never know where it might take you. Also, engage with an aviation community as the importance of having a support system of likeminded people who will encourage you cannot be understated.

How do you stay current with industry trends, regulations, and advancements in aviation technology?

Luckily, as I am passionate about aviation it is easy to stay on top of it! I am always eager to read and learn about new technologies. Furthermore, my work as a director at Transair is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the most cutting-edge flight equipment and technologies in aviation.

What’s the one aircraft you dream of flying?

It is hard to pick just one! But I would love to fly a Huey Helicopter from the Vietnam war.

Do you ever feel nervous flying?

I don’t feel nervous, however I believe having a healthy level of apprehension before flying is not a negative thing. It is important to always respect aviation.

Walk us through a typical day at work?

I am lucky that my work is very varied, and I do not often have a typical day! However, my days usually start very early, arriving at our Solent Airport HQ by 7am. Once I leave the office I head out to the gym and then continue with online meetings and emails long into the evening.

What’s your most memorable experience flying?

You will never forget your first solo! And I am lucky to have had 2. First in a helicopter then in a fixed wing aircraft, trust me, both are quite different! These flights will always be a fantastic memory for me.

What’s one thing you would change about your job?

I wouldn’t change a thing, I enjoy my job very much.

Katherine also operates a thriving aviation-focused social media account with over 240,000 Instagram followers. Through her platform, she dedicates herself to supporting and encouraging individuals within the aviation industry. Katherine's journey exemplifies the power of passion, determination, and unwavering commitment to one's dreams.