Bette Nash, the world’s longest-serving flight attendant, passed away at the age of 88 after nearly 67 years of working in the skies. She began her career with Eastern Airlines in 1957, primarily working the shuttle flight between Washington DC and Boston so she could be home every night to care for her son.
The allure of romance and glamour in flying initially drew Nash to the job at the young age of 16. The pilot and flight attendant she saw on her first flight left a lasting impression, inspiring her to pursue a career in aviation. However, she noted the challenges she faced early in her career, when strict height and weight requirements were in place for flight attendants.
In 2022, Nash was honored with the Guinness World Record for being the longest-serving flight attendant. She never officially retired from her role with American Airlines, where she worked until her passing in May after a recent breast cancer diagnosis. American Airlines and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants paid tribute to Nash for her dedication, warmth, and service to customers and the industry at large.
Nash’s legacy as a trailblazer in the aviation industry will not be forgotten, as she inspired generations of flight attendants with her commitment to excellence and passion for her work. Fly high, Bette