On November 19, Finnair, an airline based in Helsinki, did something unusual in celebration of International Men’s Day, organizing a special flight, AY-1331, with an all-male crew en route to London-Heathrow.
It is important to highlight that International Men’s Day is not in competition with International Women’s Day, but seeks to highlight the experiences of men, particularly those related to mental health.
The Western aviation sector has promoted gender diversity, but actions to combat gender stereotypes among staff have not been effective. Finnair’s vice president admitted that only 10% of the company’s flight attendants are men. The same situation occurs in most airlines around the world. Similarly, in the cockpit, there are very few women piloting aircraft.
As the airline industry continues to evolve towards greater diversity and inclusion, discussions like this are needed to build a fairer and more representative work environment.
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What are the key goals of International Men’s Day and how do initiatives like Finnair’s flight contribute to them?
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re delving into a fascinating initiative by Finnair as they celebrate International Men’s Day with a unique flight operated entirely by men. Joining us is Dr. Alex Harper, an expert in aviation psychology and gender studies. Alex, thank you for being here!
Dr. Harper: Thanks for having me! It’s great to discuss such a meaningful topic.
Interviewer: Finnair’s special flight, AY-1331, is quite a bold move. What do you think prompted them to do this?
Dr. Harper: Well, the decision seems to stem from a recognition of International Men’s Day and its focus on men’s experiences, particularly concerning mental health. By having an all-male crew, Finnair is potentially creating a space to celebrate masculinity and address the often-stigmatized mental health issues that men face.
Interviewer: That makes sense. You mentioned mental health—how does this approach relate to the broader conversation about men’s mental health?
Dr. Harper: It’s incredibly relevant. International Men’s Day aims to raise awareness about men’s mental health challenges and encourage discussions around topics that affect them. Events like this flight can help foster a supportive community and highlight the importance of seeking help. It demonstrates that organizations can play a role in promoting mental well-being.
Interviewer: Some might view this initiative as controversial, even suggesting it marginalizes International Women’s Day. What’s your take on that?
Dr. Harper: It’s a common misconception, but International Men’s Day is not meant to overshadow women’s issues. Rather, it’s about creating a dialogue around men’s specific experiences, which can coexist with the celebration of women’s contributions. Each day serves its purpose, focusing on different yet equally important aspects of humanity.
Interviewer: I see. How do you think the airline industry, in general, can benefit from embracing this kind of initiative?
Dr. Harper: The airline industry, like many sectors, often struggles with workplace stress and mental health challenges. By acknowledging days like International Men’s Day, companies can cultivate a culture of openness and support, encouraging their staff—regardless of gender—to discuss mental health. It can also attract a more diverse workforce that values inclusivity.
Interviewer: You mentioned diversity. How could events like this shape perceptions of gender roles in the aviation industry?
Dr. Harper: Events like the Finnair flight can challenge traditional gender roles by promoting acceptance of men in nurturing roles and emphasizing emotional well-being. They can serve as a platform for rethinking how we construct masculinity in professional settings, moving beyond stereotypes toward a more holistic understanding of gender.
Interviewer: It’s certainly a step forward. What do you anticipate will be the long-term impacts of such initiatives on men, particularly in high-pressure industries like aviation?
Dr. Harper: Over time, these initiatives can create a ripple effect. They encourage men to vocalize their struggles, seek support, and embrace vulnerability—all critical components of mental health. In high-pressure industries like aviation, where stress is common, this can lead to healthier work environments, increased job satisfaction, and ultimately, better performance.
Interviewer: Excellent points, Alex! where do you see the conversation about men’s health and gender roles heading in the future?
Dr. Harper: I believe we’re moving toward a more comprehensive dialogue. The more we embrace these discussions, the more we can break down barriers and stereotypes across genders. I hope we see continued efforts from organizations to promote mental health awareness and gender inclusivity, benefiting everyone in society.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Harper, for your insights! It’s been a pleasure talking with you about this important initiative and the broader implications it has for society.
Dr. Harper: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these vital topics.