The calendar turns once more to a special day of the year, dedicated to the unheralded heroes in the clouds: our flight attendants. Each year on May 31st, we mark International Flight Attendant Day, embraced by the heartfelt theme “Once a flight attendant, always a flight attendant.” As per tradition on this day, I reach out to various flight attendants across the globe, with a majority of Filipinos, inviting them to share their pictures for posting on my page. Indeed, this year shall follow the same cherished tradition.
Every year, we mark International Flight Attendant Day on May 31 to honor and celebrate these essential members of the airline industry. This day of appreciation is observed in various parts of the world, shining a spotlight on their untiring commitment to ensure passenger safety and comfort. We now talk about the history of International Flight Attendant Day and sheds light on the critical role of these airborne caretakers.
The Origin of International Flight Attendant Day
International Flight Attendant Day, which began in 2015 in Canada, carries a straightforward yet meaningful purpose – to laud the efforts of flight attendants. A Canadian Union was the first to initiate this celebration, deciding to acknowledge the hard work and spirit of flight attendants. From then on, this day of recognition found its way to different corners of the globe, gradually becoming an international observance.
An interesting connection lies between this celebration and St. Bona of Pisa, whose feast day falls on May 29. Widely considered as the patron saint of flight attendants, St. Bona belonged to the third order of Augustinian nuns and assisted pilgrims. This linkage between the saint and flight attendants symbolizes the idea that the profession is more than just a job – it’s a calling, a commitment to safeguard lives even at the risk of their own.
The Significant Role of Flight Attendants
Flight attendants, also known as air hosts or hostesses, stewards, or stewardesses, are integral members of the flight crew on commercial flights, private jets, and certain government aircraft. Collectively known as the cabin crew, these professionals are chiefly responsible for ensuring passengers’ safety and comfort during the flight.
Their primary duties involve meticulous safety and security procedures to protect passengers throughout the flight. However, their responsibilities extend beyond these core tasks. Flight attendants cater to the passengers’ needs, making their flight experience comfortable and enjoyable, right from welcoming them aboard to bidding them farewell.
Noteworthy Pioneers in Flight Attendant History
The roots of this profession trace back to 1912 with Heinrich Kubis, the world’s first flight attendant. A professional waiter who previously worked in luxury hotels, Kubis was the first to attend to passengers on the LZ 10 Schwaben rigid airship.
The first woman to join the ranks was Ellen Church in 1930. Church was a trained nurse and a pilot, bringing her unique skills and perspective to her role as a flight attendant for Boeing Air Transport.
International Flight Attendant Day serves as a reminder of the countless flight attendants worldwide who ensure our journeys are safe and comfortable. As we take to the skies, let’s remember to express our gratitude to these unsung heroes, who ensure our in-flight experience is second to none.
On this day, May 31, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our flight attendants, the unsung heroes who grace the skies. Wishing you all a joyous International Flight Attendant Day, and may your journeys always be marked by safe skies.
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!
