Bette Nash, iconic flight attendant, dies at 88
Bette Nash, World's longest-serving Flight Attendant with over 60 years at American Airlines, dies at 88
- By Gurmehar --
- Sunday, 26 May, 2024
Bette Nash, the world's longest-serving flight attendant, passed away at the age of 88 on May 17 after a recent breast cancer diagnosis. Nash, who began her career with Eastern Airlines in 1957, served American Airlines for nearly 67 years. She earned the Guinness World Record title for the longest-serving flight attendant in 2022. American Airlines and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants confirmed her death, expressing deep sadness and honoring her legacy.
A dedicated and inspirational career
Nash, based in Washington, DC, preferred working the American Shuttle flight from DC to Boston to be home every night to care for her son with Down Syndrome. Throughout her career, she witnessed several name changes of the airline, from Eastern Airlines to US Air Shuttle and eventually American Airlines. Despite these changes, Nash's dedication to her job and her passengers remained unwavering. In a memo to flight attendants, American Airlines described her as an inspiration to generations of flight attendants and praised her for her warmth and care.
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Tributes and legacy
Following Nash's passing, tributes poured in from colleagues and the aviation community. American Airlines released a heartfelt statement mourning her loss and celebrating her nearly seven decades of service. The airline emphasized how Nash inspired many with her quick wit, magnetic personality, and passion for serving others. The Association of Professional Flight Attendants also expressed their condolences, highlighting Nash's integral role in the history of flight attendants. Brady Byrnes, a senior vice president at American Airlines, remarked on Nash's exemplary service, noting that she set a high standard for everyone in the airline industry. Bette Nash's remarkable career and dedication will always be remembered.
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