First Female Syrian Pilot Flies Boeing 737 for TUI Airways

December 29, 2025 at 10:40 AM•2 min read

TUI Airways welcomes Maya Ghazal, the first female Syrian refugee to earn a commercial pilot license, flying the Boeing 737 as a symbol of diversity in aviation.

Key Points

1In July 2025, Maya Ghazal became the world's first female Syrian commercial pilot from a refugee background.
2She flies the Boeing 737 as a Second Officer for TUI Airways, having completed a rigorous 19-month cadet training program.
3Ghazal's achievement is significant for diversity, as women currently represent less than 6% of commercial pilots globally.
4She also serves as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for refugee education and inclusion worldwide.

A former Syrian refugee has achieved a historic milestone in global aviation. Maya Ghazal officially received her pilot wings in July 2025. She is the world's first female Syrian commercial pilot from a refugee background.

Her certification allows her to fly the Boeing 737 aircraft as a Second Officer. This achievement marks a powerful moment for diversity in aviation.

The Journey from Damascus to the Cockpit

Ghazal fled Damascus, Syria, in 2015 at age 16. She arrived in the United Kingdom under a family reunification scheme. She faced many barriers, including language and educational recognition.

Her ambition was sparked by watching aircraft near Heathrow Airport. Ghazal pursued an aviation engineering degree at Brunel University London. She was selected for the TUI Airways 19-month intensive pilot training program in 2023.

Her graduation ceremony coincided with the ten-year anniversary of her arrival in the UK. The milestone highlights the immense potential within the refugee community engagement.

Impact on Global Female Pilot Statistics

Commercial aviation remains a male-dominated field globally. Only an estimated 4% to 6% of the world’s pilots are women. Ghazal’s success directly challenges these global female pilot statistics.

Her role as a first female Syrian pilot is seen as a major step. It encourages more women and people from underrepresented backgrounds to join the industry. TUI Captain Paul Hurst noted the airline's goal. They wanted their pilot scheme open to anyone from any background.

Advocacy and Community Role

Beyond the flight deck, Ghazal is a powerful advocate. She was appointed a UN Refugee Agency Goodwill Ambassador (UNHCR) in 2021. She uses her platform to champion refugee rights. This includes access to education and job opportunities.

Her story reframes the narrative of forced migration. It shows that determination can overcome immense obstacles. This is vital for refugee community engagement and breaking stereotypes. For more commercial aviation news and industry updates, visit flying.flights.