The newly established initiative European Rotorcraft Women showcased its presence at the 30th AERO, one of Europe’s leading aviation expos, held in Friedrichshafen, Germany, from April 17 to 20, 2024.
A high-profile panel took place in the helicopter hall on Friday, April 19, featuring three co-founders: Dee von Allmen (Leocopter), Katrin Mayrhofer (ELSA Industry), and Dr. Frank Liemandt (managing director of the German Helicopter Association and show director of European Rotors).
The board of European Rotorcraft Women comprises a diverse group of talented and dedicated women, including Eleonora Avi, a renowned aviation psychologist; Marketa Mudrunkova from Heli Centre BV; Charlotte Pedersen, a former military pilot in Denmark, turned business mentor; and Emily Lewis from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), whose specific job title will be announced soon.
European Rotorcraft Women aims to promote gender equality and visibility for women in the helicopter industry. One of its latest initiatives is the upcoming launch of a podcast titled “Rotor Rendezvous.”
This podcast will provide a platform to share inspiring stories from women in the rotorcraft industry, offer insights into their careers, and discuss important topics.
European Rotorcraft Women invites all interested individuals to join the initiative and work together towards an inclusive and diverse future for the helicopter industry.
Dee von Allmen, one of the co-founders of European Rotorcraft Women and CEO of Leocopter, commented on the importance of the initiative: “We firmly believe that the diversity of perspectives and experiences that women bring to the aviation industry is invaluable. Through European Rotorcraft Women, we aim to encourage women to advance their careers in the helicopter industry while also providing a supportive network to accompany them on this journey.”
Katrin Mayrhofer, co-founder of European Rotorcraft Women and CEO of ELSA Industry, added: “The helicopter industry has made significant progress in the past, but there is still much to be done to achieve true equality. European Rotorcraft Women strives to break down barriers, encourage women to rise to leadership positions, and create an environment where they can fully unleash their potential.”
Dr. Frank Liemandt, managing director of the German Helicopter Association and show director of European Rotors fully supported the initiative: “The rotorcraft industry greatly benefits from diversity and inclusion. We are proud to welcome European Rotorcraft Women at AERO and to work together to make the future of the helicopter industry more accessible and equitable for women.”
For more information about European Rotorcraft Women and its initiatives, visit
european-rotorcraft-women.com or follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.
This press release was prepared and distributed by European Rotorcraft Women.
