The world’s aviation industry is mourning one of its iconic flight attendants.
Bette Nash, the holder of the Guinness World Record for longest-serving flight attendant, has died at the age of 88.
The death of Nash was confirmed by statements from American Airlines and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants.
“We mourn the passing of Bette Nash, who spent nearly seven decades warmly caring for our customers in the air. She started in 1957 and held the Guinness World Record for longest-serving flight attendant. Bette inspired generations of flight attendants. Fly high, Bette,” American Airlines posted on X.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), the union that represents flight attendants in the United States, posted a glowing tribute to Nash.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of DCA-based Flight Attendant Bette Nash, the world’s most senior flight attendant. Bette’s remarkable career spanned over six decades, during which she touched countless lives with her warmth, dedication, and unparalleled service,”
“Her passion for flying and her commitment to her passengers were truly inspiring. Bette’s legacy will forever be remembered in the aviation community and by all who had the privilege of knowing her,” they posted.
Nash began her outstanding career as a flight attendant with the defunct Eastern Airlines in 1957.
She then joined American Airlines when the carrier obtained many of Eastern’s routes in 1990.
WoK recently covered the inspiring story of Captain Theresa M. Claiborne who retired after 43 years of flying.
The pioneering aviator started as a second lieutenant and the first Black female pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and later as a captain at United Airlines.
Theresa was employed by United Airlines in January 1990 after seven years of active service with the Air Force and 13 years in the Air Force Reserves.
