#BeInspired: CYPRUS AIRWAYS’ FIRST FEMALE PILOT

Cyprus Airways has always been ready for making the next big step and being on the right side of history. Maria Ioakim, the first female pilot of Cyprus Airways, spoke with us about balancing family life and work life in the most creative ways. Read on for a fascinating Q&A with our pilot!

Written by Ioanna Lambrou

Hi Maria! Firstly, tell us a few things about yourself. One thing to know about me is that I love and cherish my family dearly; I’m the eldest of 4 with a younger sister and two brothers. Family has always been my priority, and recently I have become a mother myself! My partner, who is also a pilot, and I have been blessed with a beautiful little girl who is now almost one! In my free time I enjoy going to the beach, hanging out with friends and family, and reading books. I am, of course, a travel addict; I love seeing new places, meeting new people of different cultures and being able to learn from them, and I’m a known foodie so tasting new cuisines is definitely a highlight of my job.

You studied to become a pilot, originally, when and why did you decide to become a cabin crew member? Was it part of your original plan?

Becoming a cabin crew member was not always part of my plan, although my 7-year-old self did dream about it, and it’s a decision I will never regret! I decided to join Cyprus Airways as cabin crew back in 2018 as I wanted to be within the aviation industry, since it is something I am passionate about. In 2020 I was employed as a first officer at Cyprus Airways with a conditional offer which stated that I had to have my type rating by a specific date. I started the training but then Covid-19 happened and I could not complete it. I continued working as a flight attendant until the end of 2020 when I got pregnant, and I worked at the office until I gave birth. I returned to the offices after my maternity leave and completing my type rating, and continued working at the office until May when I got a new contract as a first officer. After the completion of ground training and IOCC (Initial Operator Conversion Course) simulator, I am currently doing my Line Training with Cyprus Airways. a lot of hours of studying. Fortunately, I have people around me (my partner, parents, and in-laws) that are always willing to help.

What was your experience as a cabin crew member? What was your favourite destination back then?

The three years that I worked as a flight attendant were very special to me. I loved the job since day one, with its ups and downs it was worth being part of the team of Cyprus Airways. The hardest but most rewarding period was during the pandemic where we had to do some repatriation flights. It was challenging and difficult under the circumstances but being able to help people get back home was very fulfilling. Generally, I believe I am privileged that I got to work as a Cabin Crew member as I learned the cabin extremely well and I got to see other aspects of aviation as well.

As far as the destination is concerned, I would say St Petersburg, it’s a beautiful city and since we had layovers there, I had the chance to explore it a lot.

Becoming a pilot is a huge decision, especially as a woman. What was the reaction from friends and family when you told them of your decision to train as a pilot?

When they asked me as a child what I want to be when I grow up and I answered, ‘a pilot’, they didn’t really pay much attention to me, as they thought it was just a childish dream. But through the years when I insisted on my decision, people realised that I was being serious, it came in naturally, as it was something they kept hearing about for years. Both my parents are proud of my decision; they supported and encouraged me to follow my dream since the beginning.

What’s your top flying tip?

Enjoy it, take it in, and live in the moment. There’s nothing like it!

What do you love most about being a pilot?

Firstly, I have the most beautiful office view! I also love the fact that I don’t have a fixed schedule with office hours.

How has your decision to become a pilot changed your life?

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”. This quote always stuck to me because it truly feels like I’m not even working!

What was your first flight as a pilot?

My first flight as a commercial pilot was on the 20th of June 2022 from Larnaca to Tel Aviv, Israel.

What’s the one thing you’ll miss about being a cabin crew member? The interaction I had with the passengers; it was such a socially rewarding experience!

How challenging is it being a pilot and a new mother? Especially since you were training during a pandemic.

I must admit it was one of the hardest things I had to do, since the training itself is really demanding and requires

Firstly, I have the most beautiful office view! I also love the fact that I don’t have a fixed schedule with office hours; I am not a routine type of person, and it really suits my personality as I enjoy having a day off on a weekday. Perhaps working on some holidays is not ideal but I still get to spend it doing something I love.

What are your pilot must-haves? What’s something you always make sure you pack for your flights?

Except from the work related things I must carry, I always have my diary to write any tips from the Captains I am flying with. I am always willing to listen and learn new things.

What’s the best thing about being a pilot for Cyprus Airways?

Cyprus Airways is a small company where everyone knows each other and is willing to help you whenever needed. We’re like a big family.

Lastly, what does Cyprus Airways mean to you?

Cyprus Airways is my second family. I’ve been in this company for the last 4.5 years as a cabin crew member, at the office and as a pilot. I am grateful for the opportunity I was given in various positions and for the experience I have gained both professionally and personally. The company has been through some difficult situations, especially during the pandemic, but it has managed to come through it triumphant. I think that is what brought Cyprus Airways employees closer together and I hope made them stronger.