ACI launches scholarship fund for women in aviation from underserved regions

Airports Council International (ACI) has announced a new scholarship initiative aimed at supporting women in aviation from the world’s most disadvantaged nations. In collaboration with Dr. Luigi G. (Joe) Sulmona, the ACI Fund will provide targeted financial assistance to women from Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) as recognised by the United Nations (UN).

The scholarship, which will award five recipients a one-time grant of US$10,000, is designed to foster professional growth for women excelling in the ACI Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP). The funds can be used for further development in ACI’s aviation training courses, helping participants enhance their skills and advance their careers.

The initiative highlights ACI’s commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion in the aviation sector, as well as strengthening the professional capabilities of airport personnel in developing regions. ACI’s broader mission, through the ACI Fund, is to increase airport safety, management, environmental sustainability and service excellence globally, particularly in underserved regions.

“This scholarship is a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion in aviation,” said Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, emphasising the significance of this scholarship as part of the organisation’s efforts to empower women in aviation. “We are proud to be part of this initiative that will help empower these talented women, providing them with the financial support they need to advance their careers and contribute to the growth of the aviation industry.”

This scholarship reflects ACI’s ongoing drive to create positive change in the global aviation industry and ensure that airport professionals have the expertise and opportunities needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving field.