What are some ways to increase diversity and inclusion in air transportation fleet operations?

2 Set clear and measurable goals

The second step to increase diversity and inclusion is to set clear and measurable goals that align with the vision, mission, and values of the fleet operations. The goals should be specific, realistic, and time-bound, and should reflect the needs and expectations of the diverse groups within the fleet. The goals should also be communicated and shared with all the stakeholders, and should be monitored and evaluated regularly. Some examples of diversity and inclusion goals are to increase the representation of women and minorities in leadership positions, to reduce the turnover rate of underrepresented groups, to improve the retention and engagement of diverse talent, and to enhance the customer satisfaction and loyalty of diverse markets.

3 Implement effective strategies

The third step to increase diversity and inclusion is to implement effective strategies that address the root causes of the gaps and challenges identified in the assessment. The strategies should be tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the fleet operations, and should involve multiple levels and dimensions of change. Some examples of diversity and inclusion strategies are to recruit and hire from diverse sources and pools, to provide training and mentoring programs for diverse employees, to create and support affinity groups and networks, to foster a culture of respect and inclusion, to promote feedback and accountability mechanisms, and to celebrate and reward diversity and inclusion achievements.

4 Engage and empower stakeholders

The fourth step to increase diversity and inclusion is to engage and empower stakeholders to participate and contribute to the diversity and inclusion efforts. The stakeholders include not only the internal employees and managers, but also the external customers, partners, suppliers, regulators, and communities. The engagement and empowerment should be based on trust, transparency, and collaboration, and should provide opportunities for dialogue, input, feedback, recognition, and action. Some examples of engagement and empowerment activities are to create diversity and inclusion committees and councils, to solicit and respond to customer feedback and complaints, to partner with diversity and inclusion organizations and experts, to sponsor and support diversity and inclusion events and initiatives, and to showcase and share diversity and inclusion stories and best practices.

5 Learn and adapt continuously

The fifth step to increase diversity and inclusion is to learn and adapt continuously from the outcomes and impacts of the diversity and inclusion efforts. The learning and adaptation should be based on data, evidence, and feedback, and should involve reflection, evaluation, and improvement. Some examples of learning and adaptation processes are to collect and analyze diversity and inclusion metrics and indicators, to conduct regular audits and reviews of diversity and inclusion performance, to identify and address the barriers and challenges of diversity and inclusion implementation, to seek and implement feedback and suggestions from stakeholders, and to innovate and experiment with new diversity and inclusion approaches and solutions.

6 Lead by example

The sixth and final step to increase diversity and inclusion is to lead by example and demonstrate the commitment and value of diversity and inclusion in the fleet operations. The leadership should come from the top, middle, and bottom of the organization, and should be visible, consistent, and authentic. The leaders should model the behaviors and attitudes that they expect from others, such as respect, empathy, curiosity, openness, and inclusion. The leaders should also inspire, influence, and empower others to follow their example and embrace diversity and inclusion as a core principle and practice of the fleet operations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?