INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day Special…
First Woman Director of Mysore Airport P.V. Ushakumari speaks about challenges, women entering airport management, leadership and the future of aviation.
When P.V. Ushakumari took charge as Director of Mysore Airport on Oct. 31, 2025, it marked a significant milestone for the Airport. She became the first woman to head the facility, bringing with her more than two decades of experience in aviation operations.
A native of Thiruvananthapuram, Ushakumari began her career as a Security Supervisor in the Operations Department at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport at a time when very few women were seen in operational roles. Over the years, she served at several airports, including Chennai International Airport, where she played a key role in establishing the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC).
Her leadership came to the fore during crises such as the 2015 Chennai floods and the 2018 Kerala floods, when she helped ensure smooth airport operations and passenger movement despite challenging conditions. She also coordinated closely with the Indian Air Force and Coast Guard during disaster-response efforts.
Before taking charge in Mysuru, she served as the Deputy General Manager and Head of Airside Operations at Kozhikode (Karipur) International Airport. Now leading Mysore Airport at a time when it is poised for expansion, Ushakumari speaks to Star of Mysore about her journey in aviation and the evolving role of women in the sector. Excerpts:
By B.C. Thimmaiah
Star of Mysore (SOM): Aviation infrastructure has long been seen as a male-dominated space. What was your journey like in rising to the position of Airport Director?
P.V. Ushakumari: I began my career about 25 years ago in airport operations. At that time, very few women were working in this field. In fact, I was the first woman security supervisor in the operations department at Thiruvananthapuram Airport.
I had to carry out runway inspections, drive vehicles at night and monitor aircraft movements to ensure safety and efficiency in daily operations.
Over the years, I worked at several airports and handled different types of emergencies. I also coordinated with multiple stakeholders and helped formulate standard operating procedures for smooth airport functioning. Every step came with its own challenges, but those challenges strengthened my resolve to prove that women can excel in aviation.
SOM: Over the years, have you seen a shift in the number and roles of women in airport management and aviation operations?
Ushakumari: Yes, there has definitely been a visible shift. When I started my career, women were very few in operations and technical roles. Today, we see many more women entering airport management, engineering, fire and safety services and other operational areas. Women are increasingly recognised for their competence, level-headed decision-making ability and operational excellence.
SOM: Is there formal training available specifically for women who want to enter aviation operations?
Ushakumari: There is no training exclusively meant for women. The training programmes are open to everyone. Women undergo the same courses and professional training as men. In aviation, gender equality is important. Anyone who wants to build a career in this field can apply for the relevant courses and gain the necessary qualifications and experience.
SOM: Mysore Airport is entering a major expansion phase. What does it mean to you personally to lead the airport at this time?
Ushakumari: It is both a matter of pride and responsibility. Incidentally, I became the first woman Director of Mysore Airport during this important phase of expansion. This gives me an opportunity to contribute to shaping the Mysore Airport’s future. It is not just about building infrastructure. It is also about improving connectivity, creating new opportunities and setting high standards in airport operations.
Mysuru is a heritage city and there is great expectation among people regarding the Airport’s development. The Government has been very supportive and the process of handing over land to the Airports Authority of India is now in its final stages.
Institutions should encourage women to take up technical training and leadership programmes. Career guidance initiatives and mentorship opportunities can also help young professionals understand the possibilities in aviation.
SOM: Did you have mentors or role models who influenced your aviation career?
Ushakumari: For me, the biggest motivation came from the challenges themselves. Each challenge pushed me to prove that women are capable of handling demanding roles such as runway inspections, emergency management and complex airport operations.
Today, I hope my journey can serve as a small example for young women who are considering careers in aviation.
SOM: Leadership roles come with immense responsibility. How have you balanced professional and personal life?
Ushakumari: Balancing work and personal life is always challenging, especially in aviation, where operations run 24 hours a day. I have managed it through discipline, proper planning and, most importantly, support from my family. My husband, Anil Dev, who is an Advocate in Thiruvananthapuram, has always been very supportive. That support has helped me manage both my professional and personal life.
SOM: What more should institutions like Airports Authority of India do to encourage women in technical and leadership roles?
Ushakumari: Institutions should encourage women to take up technical training and leadership programmes. Career guidance initiatives and mentorship opportunities can also help young professionals understand the possibilities in aviation. At Mysore Airport, we also conduct career guidance programmes for aviation students and encourage more girls to consider careers in this sector.
SOM: Finally, what message would you like to share with young women in Mysuru who dream of a career in aviation or engineering?
Ushakumari: My message is simple: Dream big and pursue your goals with determination. Aviation is a challenging field, but it is also very rewarding. Women are fully capable of excelling in operations, engineering and leadership roles. With dedication and continuous learning, young women can break barriers and make a meaningful contribution to the aviation sector.
This post was published on March 26, 2026 6:10 pm