Many have the impression that flying and being a cabin crew is just a short-term career. While maybe they base this assumption on the average retirement age of flight attendants which falls between 50 to 60, some airlines make an exception. An American Airlines flight attendant named Betty Nash, who has been flying for 65 years, shows us that this is indeed a long-term career. She began her career in 1957.
The Guinness has named her the longest-serving flight attendant! Talk about her love for this career indeed!
A witness to the evolution of commercial aviation
Betty Nash is a living witness to how commercial aviation has transformed throughout the years. She started her career in 1957 at Eastern Airlines which was later on absorbed by American Airlines. Indeed, Ms. Nash is an icon not only in American commercial aviation but in the global aviation industry.
Being also the most senior cabin crew of American Airlines, Betty can fly to any route she wants. While most senior flight attendants go for the long haulers, Betty chooses to fly only between Boston, New York, and Washington. Many of her passengers have become familiar faces. “I love my people. I know my customers. I know what they want. The airline thinks names are important, but I think people’s needs are very important. Everybody wants a little love”, said Betty.
Is Betty Nash the oldest cabin crew ever?
While she is currently the longest-serving flight attendant and oldest flight attendant on active duty today, she is not the record holder for the oldest flight attendant.
A Delta flight steward named Bob Reardon was forced to retire at the age of 90 after serving the airline for 63 years! That means that given a choice, Bob would not retire, yet.
Indeed, both Betty Nash and Bob Reardon prove to us that flying and being a flight attendant is a long-term career. Aside from the perks, you get to grow with the airline. I have personally seen this among the Philippine Airlines flight pursers who I have met. It’s sometimes all a matter of mindset and attitude, especially if you love what you are doing.
Congratulations Betty!
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
