American Airlines runs historic flight with all-Black female crew from Dallas to Phoenix
The sky’s the limit for New England Council member, American Airlines as they partnered with the Bessie Coleman family to run a historic all-Black female crew from Dallas, TX to Phoenix, AR in honor of Bessie Coleman, the first Black and Native American woman to hold a pilot’s license. The American Airlines flight left from Dallas-Fort Worth near Coleman’s hometown to Phoenix where Coleman performed in an air show.
The Bessie Coleman family wanted to honor the legacy of Coleman’s historic career while encouraging future generations of Black women to follow in her footsteps. This flight marked the 100-year anniversary of Coleman obtaining her pilot’s license. Gigi Coleman, Bessie Coleman’s great-niece, was among the passengers on the flight. The aviation field continues to have small representation from BIPOC communities but American Airlines and Coleman’s family hope to change that. American Airlines began the Cadet Academy which provides financial support and mentorship to encourage diversity in the airline community. In addition, the airline plans to donate $1.5 million to the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals to help train pilots with diverse backgrounds.
Flight captain, Beth Powell, discussed her experience at pilot training in Florida and said, “I was the only Black girl there. It did feel lonely. There were times where you questioned yourself, because you didn’t see anyone that looked like you. It was very important to me, from a young age, to go back to the community and tell them what they can do. That’s where I find the most pride and joy, in speaking to the next generation, and telling them what they can become.”
The New England Council would like to commend American Airlines and the flight crew for their work to encourage more diversity in the business of aviation.
Read more in the Washington Post.