Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day is observed annually on July 19. The day is marked to appreciate flight attendants for the important work they do during flights. The holiday was proclaimed on July 13, 1990, by President George Bush. Flight attendants strive to make air travel as comfortable and enjoyable as possible as well as guard the safety of aircraft passengers. Their professionalism has saved many passengers from injury or death and continues to increase the margin of safety.
History of Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day
Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day was created by proclamation of the President of the United States of America on July 13, 1990. Declared by President George Bush during his tenure, the proclamation enumerates the importance of flight attendants to passenger safety. Flight attendants strive to make air travel as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Their chief responsibility, however, is to guard the safety of aircraft passengers. Federal aviation regulations entrust flight attendants with an array of duties that are essential to protecting cabin occupants from in-flight hazards and ensuring their safe evacuation in the event of an emergency. The men and women who serve as flight attendants carry out their duties with an outstanding degree of dedication.
Their behavior has been calm and professional during accidents, hijackings, in-flight fires, sudden cabin decompression, and other situations of potential or immediate danger to human life. This tradition of professionalism has saved many passengers from injury or death and continues to increase the margin of safety for those who travel by air today.
The proclamation also reads, in part:
“In recognition of the contributions America’s flight attendants have made, and continue to make, to the safety and comfort of the traveling public, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 278, has designated July 19, 1990, as Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day and has authorized and requested the President to proclaim an observance of that day.
“Now, Therefore, I, George Bush, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim July 19, 1990, as Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day. I urge the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies and activities designed to recognize the important role flight attendants play in enhancing the safety and convenience of our nation’s air transportation system.”
Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day timeline
Heinrich Kubis becomes the world’s first flight attendant on board the L.Z 129 Schwaben airship.
Western Airlines employs stewards to serve food during flights.
United Airlines hires the first female flight attendant, 25-year-old Ellen Church.
Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day is proclaimed by President George Bush.
Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day FAQs
Who was the first African-American flight attendant?
Ruth Carol Taylor. She became the first African-American flight attendant in the United States in 1957.
Do you need a college degree to become a flight attendant?
An aspiring flight attendant must have at least a high school diploma or G.E.D.
Are there special schools for flight attendants?
Yes, there are flight attendant schools that train people to become flight attendants.
How to Observe Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day
Appreciate a flight attendant
Every time flight attendants board a plane, they expose themselves to danger while still ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers. So next time you fly, take out time to say a big thank-you to these brave individuals.
Learn more about flight attendants
Flight attendants must meet several requirements to qualify for the job. Learning about their duties and responsibilities fosters more empathy for these dedicated individuals.
Spread the word
Spread the word about Flight Attendant Safety Professionals’ Day. Share this article, using the hashtag #flightattendants.
5 Airlines With The Highest-Paid Flight Attendants
The average annual salary of a flight attendant working at Alaskan Airlines is $53,000.
On average, an American Airlines flight attendant is paid $40,000 per annum.
United Airlines reportedly pays its flight attendants an average of $44,000 per year.
On average, a flight attendant at Southwest Airlines earns about $42,000 per year.
JetBlue pays its flight attendants about $42,500 a year, on average.
Why Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day is Important
Flight attendants are brave
Think of the risk involved in being on several flights every day. Being a flight attendant is a strenuous and potentially dangerous job. Flight attendants deserve all the accolades they get.
Flight attendants are caring
Not only do they have to perform one of the toughest jobs, but they also have to do it all with charm and grace. Though part of their job is to keep passengers comfortable and safe, there is no doubt that they sometimes go above and beyond their duties.
Flight attendants ensure safety
On average, a flight attendant may clock 65 to 85 flight hours every month. During these flights, their duties include ensuring passengers' safety rules and making sure that all emergency equipment is functioning properly.
Flight Attendant Safety Professionals' Day dates