About Us...
Whether you are joining us for the first time, or a returning member, we're so grateful you're here!
Big picture, Women in Aviation is a resource for people to use to get dialed in to the aviation industry. We provide scholarships (over $11 million worth of scholarships have been awarded since the inception of the organization), networking, a yearly conference that hosts industry leaders in a job-fair/educational environment, a tight-knit community, and much, much more!
Hopefully you've gotten a good idea of who we are, what we do, and what we hope to do in the future, and we would love for you to join us on the journey! There will be no pressure to pay any money, or sign up for any formal membership, if you simply just want to see what we're about, learn something, or contribute in some way, we'd love to welcome you to our 'ohana! Click on the button down below to get involved!
Big picture, Women in Aviation is a resource for people to use to get dialed in to the aviation industry. We provide scholarships (over $11 million worth of scholarships have been awarded since the inception of the organization), networking, a yearly conference that hosts industry leaders in a job-fair/educational environment, a tight-knit community, and much, much more!
Hopefully you've gotten a good idea of who we are, what we do, and what we hope to do in the future, and we would love for you to join us on the journey! There will be no pressure to pay any money, or sign up for any formal membership, if you simply just want to see what we're about, learn something, or contribute in some way, we'd love to welcome you to our 'ohana! Click on the button down below to get involved!
Get to Know Our 2024 Board Members
Brittany Kahawai
President Aloha all! My name is Brittany Kahawai and I was born and raised on Oahu. My aviation journey began as a flight attendant for six years and then I transitioned to the flight deck. I am currently a First Officer for a major airline on the Airbus A-320. I am very grateful for the opportunity to represent our unique aviation community here in Hawaii and to share my love of flying through Women in Aviation International and our local chapter. Together with my fellow board members, I am committed to providing mentorship, encouragement, and guidance through our chapter’s outreach events, meetings, and socials. I appreciate your support and hope to fly with you all soon. |
Bethany Duncan
Outreach Chair My name is Bethany Duncan and I am a first officer at Hawaiian airlines. I fly the mighty 717 and I am very blessed to live the dream flying in and around the islands in Hawaii. I am originally from Seattle Washington but learned to fly in college in San Diego. I married a military aviator and while spending 12 years traveling around the world, I benefited from joining 5 different Women In Aviation chapters along the way. I was a flight instructor, flew charter for a long while, cargo and now part 121 passenger aircraft. My biggest lesson learned across my 21 years of flying is… just don’t quit. I have hit many roadblocks, hurdles, and challenges that could have ended my flying along the way but simply choosing to endure and not ever quit has afforded me the dream I daily enjoy! Many women have helped and encouraged me on my journey and I want to share this message and support those who are moving towards their ultimate flying goal! |
Kristy Mae
Treasurer Aloha, my name is Kristy Mae and I am so honored to be apart of this community of women who reach for the dreams fearlessly and foster a home for other women in the industry. I have always been pulled to Aviation and when I moved to Hawaii 10 years ago I was introduced to General Aviation in Hawaii through my boyfriend. Fast forward many years - we have built a successful flight school at HNL airport. While I am not currently training anymore due to being a recent full time mom, my passion and daily life is still very centered around flying and I look forward to getting back in the cockpit down the road. I am very proud of this chapter and what we strive to accomplish in service to local women aviators! |
Caitlin Thomas
Secretary Aloha! My name is Caitlin Thomas and I'm a commercial pilot currently working on my CFI certificate. I live in both Seattle, WA, and Honolulu, HI, and am passionate about building the women in aviation community and helping others achieve their dream of flight. In addition to flight training and being the Secretary of WAI's Aloha Chapter, I am married to an incredible husband and am a mom of two boys under the age of two. I also serve as Treasurer for the Ninety-Nines Aloha Chapter. I hope our flight paths cross soon! |
Bianca Vasquez-Abarca
Web Master Aloha everyone! My name is Bianca Vasquez-Abarca, I'm 23 years old, and I'm from upcountry Maui. I recently moved to Oahu after completing a pilot internship with Alaska Airlines and I am excited to continue pursuing my ratings here while also mentoring other aspiring lady aviators. Feel free to message me on Instagram if you have any questions or if you need a bit of guidance! Blue Skies!! ig @pilot.bianca |