SAN FRANCISCO: Passengers aboard an Alaska Airlines flight earlier this week became part of a landmark trip for the carrier, as it was the first of its flights to be piloted by two African-American women.
Captain Tara Wright took to the intercom to make the announcement shortly before takeoff on Sunday, telling passengers they were about to be part of “a pretty interesting piece of Alaska Airlines history.”
In a Facebook post shared by Wright, the captain can be seen standing in front of the cockpit alongside First Officer Mallory Cave, addressing the cabin ahead of the flight from San Francisco to Portland, Ore.
“Today is a fun day. We have Mother’s Day, and I’m sure there are plenty of mothers on board this morning,” Wright began.
But Wright’s most exciting news was yet to come.
“And finally … you’re sharing a pretty interesting piece of Alaska Airlines history this morning,” she told travelers. You’ll be piloted by two African-American female pilots, for the first time in Alaska Airlines history.
“You’re making history this morning, whether you’re awake or not,” joked Wright, as passengers began to applaud.