March 2 to 8 marks a very special time for Pacific Coastal Airlines and the global aviation community. During Women of Aviation Week, we celebrate the past and present achievements of women across the air and space industry, whose impact and legacy continue to shape aviation today. At Pacific Coastal Airlines, we are proud to be home to remarkable women who fly aviation forward every single day.

Meet Alicia, our Senior Manager of Cabin Safety and the driving force behind excellence across our Flight Attendant team. Throughout her career, Alicia has maintained a deep connection to aviation, a passion she continues to share and champion at Pacific Coastal Airlines. Join us in celebrating Women of Aviation Week through Alicia’s journey and her reflections on what aviation means to her.

What inspired you to pursue a career in aviation?

When I was a teenager, my mom began working at Pacific Coastal Airlines as a Customer Service Agent. Watching her dedication and passion for the travel industry inspired me to believe in myself and pursue a career that could take me anywhere in the world.

As I entered the workforce, I found myself following in her footsteps and joined Pacific Coastal Airlines as a Flight Attendant, sharing that same love of travel and connection.

Can you share how your journey led you to become a Senior Manager of Cabin Safety?

I began my career as a Flight Attendant with Pacific Coastal Airlines in 2008. In 2009, I left to explore another passion within the travel industry, working on cruise ships. By 2015, I was ready to settle down, but I knew aviation was where I belonged, so I returned to Pacific Coastal as a Flight Attendant.

Working on the line gave me firsthand experience with operational realities and the importance of strong leadership and clear standards. Over time, I became increasingly interested in training and leadership, which led me to roles as a Flight Attendant Trainer and Supervisor.

As my responsibilities grew, so did my interest in regulatory requirements and continuous improvement. In 2022, I stepped into the role of Manager of Cabin Safety. In 2025, I was honoured to be nominated as the regulatory lead for Flight Attendants with Transport Canada and became Senior Manager of Cabin Safety, known within the regulatory framework as the Flight Attendant Manager.

Each step has been challenging and rewarding, and it has strengthened my commitment to supporting our crews and upholding the highest safety standards.

What does Women in Aviation Week mean to you personally?

Women have always played a crucial role in aviation history, and we continue to shape the industry today. Women in Aviation Week is an opportunity to recognize the strength, professionalism, and influence women bring to every role in aviation.

For me, it’s about visibility and mentorship. When women see other women leading safety programs, managing departments, flying aircraft, or maintaining them, it reinforces that there is space for them here. Representation matters, not just for inspiration, but for normalization.

What progress have you seen for women in aviation throughout your career? How have you seen that reflected at Pacific Coastal Airlines?

Throughout my career, I’ve seen more women step confidently into leadership roles across departments, and the momentum continues to build.

At Pacific Coastal Airlines, I’ve seen the number of women grow across all areas of the company. One of my favourite parts of my role is onboarding new Flight Attendants, mentoring and guiding women as they begin their careers is incredibly rewarding.

I was fortunate to have a mentor of my own, a strong female leader at Pacific Coastal Airlines who guided and supported me early in my career. Her encouragement and example played a significate role in shaping both the leader and woman I am today. Without her inspiration and belief in me, I would not be where I am today.

Seeing that cycle of mentorship continue is one of the most meaningful signs of progress.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in aviation?

Be confident in your capability and know that you are valued. Aviation is demanding and the standards are high, but that’s what makes it such a rewarding career.

Ask questions. Stay curious. Growth often happens just outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, remember that your perspective adds value and strengthens the industry.

Is there anything else you would like to share with women in aviation?

Aviation is built on teamwork. Support one another, mentor when you can, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. If you are willing to put in the work, aviation will give you opportunities to grow in ways you may not have imagined when you first started.

This year, we’re participating in the #PinkPaperPlaneChallenge to raise awareness and celebrate all women who
fly aviation forward. Check it out: