An American Airlines pilot experienced a deeply emotional moment on his final flight to Miami before retirement, sharing the cockpit with his daughter as his co-pilot. The heartwarming episode was captured in a now-viral Instagram video that has touched people around the world.
In the video, the pilot addresses passengers and crew with a heartfelt farewell. “This is my last day at American Airlines – 11,835 days,” he announces as the cabin erupts in applause, with his family and friends who had joined the flight cheering loudly as well. “They’ve been a little rowdy,” he jokes, “but we’re going to have a good time and get you to Miami as fast as we can.”
What makes the moment even more special is when he introduces his daughter, seated beside him in the cockpit. “I am lucky enough to have my daughter on board as my co-pilot,” he says with pride.
The flight concluded with a celebration as passengers honoured the retiring pilot with a guard of honour, marking the end of his aviation career.
Watch the video:
The video has already amassed more than 6 lakh views with social media users couldn’t get enough of it.
One user wrote, “Why did this make me cry?! Thinking into my future when this could be my husband and daughter.”
Another user added, “Congratulations, sir! My FIL flew for American for 28 years. A shame the force y’all out of the cockpit at 60. Fabulous that your daughter beside you in the right seat!”
A third individual commented, “Enjoy your retirement man. That is definitely not an easy job to have with all the people you are responsible for while flying! Stay blessed!”
