Women in Aviation Series: Nicola-Jane Sellers, Group Head of Sustainability, Luxaviation
December 27, 2024
Nicola-Jane Sellers’ career in aviation began with an unexpected twist: her first job interview was televised nationally. A natural adventurer with a lifelong passion for air travel, Nicola-Jane has carved a unique path in the industry, combining her expertise with a commitment to sustainability and a strong sense of purpose. Actively seeking to inspire the next generation of industry professionals, she shares her story, insights, and vision for a more responsible future in aviation.
What is your background in the industry? Where did it all begin for you?
Nearly 10 years ago, I began my aviation journey with an inflight dining experience company based in London. What made this start unique was that the interview process was televised nationally—an exciting and surreal way to enter the industry. It was, in many ways, like stepping into my own version of Alice in Wonderland, a story I’ve always loved for its whimsical sense of adventure and discovery.
That role gave me valuable insight into complex supply chains, logistics, and the art of delivering luxury experiences to discerning clients. It also opened my eyes to the intricate ecosystem that supports aviation, from operational precision to the human connections that drive the industry forward.
In 2017, I joined Luxaviation as a Charter Sales Executive. Over the next five and a half years, I managed multidisciplinary charter flights, each one adding new layers of complexity to my understanding of aviation. These experiences, combined with my growing awareness of aviation’s environmental and societal impacts, laid the groundwork for my current role as Luxaviation’s Group Head of Sustainability.
What are your ambitions? Where do you want this to go?
In 2021, I stood atop a melting ancient glacier in Iceland, witnessing firsthand the fragility of our environment. That moment was a turning point for me. I made a personal pledge to dedicate my career to fostering positive change by raising awareness about sustainability and translating that awareness into actionable strategies. Today, my ambition is to embed environmental and social sustainability into the core of Luxaviation’s operations, helping the company thrive while aligning with broader climate goals. Beyond my role at Luxaviation, I also serve as Chair of the Air Charter Association’s Next Generation Group. Through this platform, I aim to inspire young people to explore careers in aviation and contribute to shaping a more sustainable future for the industry. I believe that true change requires collaboration, and I’m committed to building bridges between stakeholders, from corporate leaders to emerging talent, to drive meaningful progress.
What is your best aviation memory so far?
One of my most cherished memories is stepping onto the airside tarmac for the first time beside a Bombardier Global 6000. That moment was the culmination of a childhood dream, and it filled me with pride and excitement for the journey ahead. I’ve also had the privilege of working alongside incredibly talented professionals, including Michelin-starred chefs, skilled pilots, and dedicated cabin attendants. Each collaboration has been a testament to the passion and expertise that define the aviation industry. Ultimately, it’s the people I’ve met—each with their own unique stories and contributions—that have left the most lasting impression on me.
What is your best advice for younger people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Take the leap. The first step toward your ambition is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important. Surround yourself with positive influences—mentors, colleagues, and friends who will support and inspire you. My career has been relatively linear, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. Each obstacle, whether personal or professional, has taught me resilience and opened doors to growth. I’ve learned that perspective is everything—what may initially seem like a setback can often be a stepping stone to something greater.
For young people entering aviation today, opportunities like the ACA 75 Internship Programme are invaluable. These initiatives provide a structured way to gain industry exposure and build connections. I encourage the next generation to seize these opportunities, stay curious, and embrace the dynamic nature of the industry. The path may not always be clear, but that’s part of the adventure.
Do you have any heroes or idols from the sector, past or present?
Rather than looking to a single figure, I draw inspiration from the collective efforts of those in the industry who consistently strive for excellence. I’m fortunate to work alongside individuals who are not only passionate about aviation but also committed to making ethical and responsible decisions. Their dedication to continuous improvement motivates me to aim higher. It’s this shared sense of moral responsibility and commitment to progress that I find truly inspiring.
What inspires you about this sector and the people in it?
The aviation industry is a hub for innovation and creativity. It’s an ecosystem fuelled by collaboration, where visionary leaders and entrepreneurial thinkers are constantly redefining what’s possible. What inspires me most is the interconnectedness of the sector—the way it brings people together, both literally and figuratively. Each person within this ecosystem plays a vital role in shaping the future of flight.
What does success look like?
Success, to me, is about taking a holistic approach to progress. It’s not just about achieving financial goals or hitting operational targets—it’s about considering the broader societal and environmental impacts of our actions—factors which are considered an equal priority so that progress is truly conducive to a sustainable future.
In aviation, success can be attributed to decoupling the industry’s growth from its environmental impact. This requires collaboration across all stakeholders and a willingness to think beyond traditional metrics of success.
True success lies in our ability to “meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” It’s about fostering innovation, building resilience, and ensuring that our decisions lead to positive outcomes that contribute to the long-term wellbeing of all.
What is the biggest challenge you are facing?
The path to sustainability in aviation is both complex and multifaceted. One of the biggest challenges is engaging all stakeholders—and transforming ambition into action. Decarbonising aviation will require a combination of disruptive technologies, including Sustainable Aviation Fuels, advancements in aerodynamics, and innovations in propulsion systems – examples of intervention functions which can help support behavioural changes that are crucial to driving meaningful progress. Sustainability has gained unprecedented attention in recent years. The challenge now is to maintain that momentum and embed sustainability as a purpose-driven principle in every aspect of aviation. This means not just meeting but exceeding current expectations and ensuring that our industry evolves in harmony with both people and the planet.
