Katy Lee MBE: A Trailblazer in Aviation and Mental Health Advocacy
Katy Lee MBE is an inspiring figure in the aviation industry, combining her professional expertise as a First Officer on the Boeing 787 with her passionate work in charity, mental health advocacy, and youth development. Recognised with an MBE for her services, Katy has forged a unique path that blends operational excellence, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to improving diversity and mental wellbeing in aviation. This article explores her remarkable journey, her contributions to the sector, and her educational background, providing an insightful profile of a truly exceptional professional.
Katy Lee MBE: Professional Career and Aviation Excellence
Katy Lee currently serves as a First Officer on the Boeing 787 for TUI, based in Birmingham. Her role encompasses ensuring flight safety, passenger comfort, punctuality, and cost-effectiveness, alongside maintaining effective crew resource management (CRM) and communication. Having logged thousands of flight hours, Katy brings extensive operational experience to one of the world’s most advanced aircraft.
Prior to joining TUI in 2018, Katy flew as a First Officer on the Dash 8 Q400 for Flybe, where she gained valuable experience operating regional and European routes. This background laid a solid foundation for her transition to wide-body jets, marking her progress through one of the most challenging and competitive fields in aviation.
In addition to her piloting career, Katy has been deeply involved with the British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA), serving for three years as a company council elected representative. In this capacity, she addressed issues such as fatigue management, peer support, health and safety, and wellbeing, demonstrating her early dedication to the welfare of colleagues.
Leadership in the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC)
Katy Lee’s leadership extends beyond commercial aviation into her longstanding role with the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC). Since 2009, she has contributed as an RAFAC officer, ascending to Squadron Leader and currently holding the prestigious position of Region Aerospace Officer for London and South East Region (LaSER). Her responsibilities include overseeing flying and gliding opportunities for approximately 5,000 cadets, alongside managing aerospace-related initiatives such as the RAFAC Drones project.
Katy’s role in RAFAC has been marked by a strong emphasis on increasing diversity within aerospace activities, actively encouraging participation from less represented demographics. She is recognised for her strategic leadership and commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
Championing Diversity and Mentoring: Aviation in Reach
In 2022, Katy Lee established the charity Aviation in Reach, where she chairs the board of trustees. The charity aims to provide mentoring and support to individuals from underrepresented groups aspiring to careers in military or civilian aviation. This initiative addresses barriers to entry, promoting inclusivity and fostering a more diverse aviation workforce.
Aviation in Reach is known for its high-quality mentoring programmes, connecting experienced professionals with young people who might otherwise lack access to opportunities within the sector. Katy’s vision for the charity reflects her passion for equality and her understanding of the importance of mentorship in shaping careers.
Mental Health Advocacy and Wellbeing Initiatives
Katy Lee’s dedication to mental health in aviation is both personal and professional. She served as Head of Wellbeing at the charity PilotsTogether, which supports unemployed airline pilots struggling with mental health challenges. During her tenure, Katy launched the #WePilots text crisis initiative, a confidential service offering support to industry workers often reluctant to seek help due to stigma.
Her work has included raising awareness through media interviews, advocacy, and participation in mental health programmes. Katy’s efforts have been instrumental in breaking down the cultural barriers around mental health in the aviation community, making support more accessible.
Education and Academic Achievements
Katy Lee’s academic background is extensive and diverse, complementing her practical aviation expertise with strong theoretical knowledge.
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Master’s Degree in Human Factors in Aviation (Coventry University): Katy completed her MSc with a focus on human factors, particularly mental health and fatigue management. This advanced study has allowed her to integrate scientific insights into her professional and charitable work, addressing critical issues affecting aviation safety and wellbeing.
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Bachelor of Science (Hons) in International Studies (Open University): This degree provided Katy with a broad understanding of economics, politics, and additional modules in mathematics and web technologies, equipping her with analytical skills and a global perspective.
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Pilot Training (Oxford Aviation Academy): Katy attained her Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Frozen Airline Transport Pilot Licence (fATPL) with high marks, reflecting her technical competence and dedication to her craft.
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ILM Level 3 in Leadership and Management (CVQO): This qualification underpins her leadership roles in RAFAC and charitable organisations, enhancing her ability to manage teams and projects effectively.
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Further Qualifications: Katy also earned a Flight Instructor rating, International Studies expertise, and functional skills teaching experience, showcasing her versatility and commitment to continuous learning.
Early Career and Teaching Experience
Before becoming a commercial pilot, Katy gained valuable experience as a flight instructor at RAF Benson Flying Club, providing pilot training for current and former service members. Her role in instruction reflects her skill in communicating complex information and nurturing others’ abilities.
She also worked as a maths tutor and functional skills lecturer, supporting students with various learning needs. This teaching experience highlights her dedication to education and mentoring, traits that have carried through her career.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of her outstanding services to the RAF Air Cadets and charitable work, Katy Lee was awarded the Military Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 New Year Honours list. This prestigious accolade acknowledges her leadership, dedication, and impactful contributions to both aviation and community service.
Impact and Vision
Katy Lee MBE exemplifies a modern aviation professional who blends operational excellence with a strong social conscience. Her work spans frontline flying, mentoring, mental health advocacy, and youth development—each element reinforcing her overarching vision of a safer, more inclusive, and supportive aviation community.
She is particularly committed to breaking down barriers for women and minorities in aviation, sectors historically dominated by narrow demographics. Through her leadership in RAFAC and Aviation in Reach, Katy is helping to shape a future where aviation careers are accessible and welcoming to all.
Conclusion
Katy Lee MBE’s career is a powerful example of how passion, expertise, and compassion can combine to create meaningful change. Her professional achievements as a pilot, alongside her influential work in mental health and diversity advocacy, mark her as a true leader in the aviation world.
With a solid academic foundation and a commitment to mentoring the next generation, Katy continues to inspire and empower those around her. Her MBE recognition is well deserved, symbolising a career dedicated not only to flying aircraft but also to elevating the entire aviation community.
