Anika Markle Have you ever been on a plane and witnessed the pilot announcing a “special passenger” on board? It’s usually a birthday celebration or a frequent flyer member being recognized for their loyalty. But for one United Airlines flight, the reason for the special announcement was absolutely touching.
Michelle and her mom were on board the flight when the captain made an unusual announcement. He asked, “If you were a Capital Airlines stewardess, would you mind raising your hand?” Michelle knew what was going on and managed to capture her mom’s surprised reaction on her smartphone.
Michelle’s mom had been a flight attendant for Capital Airlines over sixty years ago before it merged with United Airlines in 1961. Despite leaving her job to become a stay-at-home mom, she still felt at home in the sky.
It turns out that Michelle had arranged for her mom to be recognized as a special passenger because her son was the captain of the flight. Michelle’s brother had followed in their father’s footsteps and became a pilot for United Airlines as well.
The captain, who was Michelle’s brother, walked up to his mom and gave her a big hug and kiss, telling her he loves her. Michelle’s mom was overwhelmed with emotion and thought of her late husband when she saw her son in the pilot’s uniform.
The surprise was a beautiful and heartwarming moment for everyone on board the flight. It’s clear that being in the air runs in the family, and the captain had made his mom proud with this special recognition.
Michelle and her brother’s thoughtful and loving gesture for their mom was truly special. It’s moments like these that remind us of the power of family and the impact a simple surprise can have on someone’s day.