Breaking Barriers and Perceptions: Promoting Gender Equality and Inclusivity in The Philippine Aviation Industry in Comparison to ASEAN Countries by Identifying Stereotypes of Women in The Workplace

Abstract

The Aviation industry has been characterized as a male-dominated field, and traditionally, the majority of positions in this industry, including pilots, engineers, and top executives, have been occupied by men. This thesis investigated the impact of gender biases and stereotypes on women in the Philippine aviation industry in terms of employment, and work performance. It addressed the gender gap in ASEAN countries, to compare in the Philippines, and aimed to identify strategies for fostering gender inclusivity and diversity, creating a safe working environment for Women, and inspiring women to pursue careers in aviation. By collaborating with industry professionals, the study ensured questionnaire relevance and validity. The researchers employed a comprehensive approach to data evaluation, leveraging meta-analysis to synthesize key findings across diverse studies and literature. Complementarily, thematic analysis was applied to support, compare, and contrast previous research, shedding light on the conceptual relevance to the current study. Furthermore, thematic analysis facilitated an exploration of informants' ideas, thoughts, and opinions, enriching our understanding of each persona's perspective. Findings reveal that despite women's remarkable abilities, gender discrimination limits their recognition in leadership and technical roles. The research highlights persistent gender gaps in ASEAN labor markets, influenced by cultural norms and domestic responsibilities. Recommendations include breaking misconceptions, diversifying women's roles, and promoting their participation in technical and leadership positions. The study suggests a multimodal approach to reduce the gender gap in labor force participation, incorporating workplace equality promotion, educational initiatives, childcare support, and legislative measures to foster diversity in the Aviation field.