In a heartwarming tribute to legacy, love, and aviation, Alaska Airlines has made history by flying its first-ever mother and son pilot team, Captain Michelle Miles and First Officer Jeff Miles, on Mother's Day.

The milestone flight from Seattle to Kahului, Maui, marked a full-circle moment for the Miles family, nearly three decades after Michelle once shared the flight deck with her father at the same airline.

Three generations of pilots have now served Alaska Airlines, making it a story not only of aviation excellence but also of enduring family legacy.

Paddle Your World records that an emotional Jeff disclosed he had waited 27 years for the moment for moment to fly alongside the woman who inspired his career.

“They say you don’t get to meet your heroes, but I’ve known mine since I was born,” he said.

Captain Michelle Miles joined Alaska Airlines in 1988 after serving in the U.S. Air Force.

At the time, she was only the 17th female pilot in the Seattle-based carrier’s history and the first with a military background.

Her journey in aviation was inspired by her father, Ski, a former Navy pilot who joined the airline in 1981.

In 1995, Michelle and Ski flew together during a “Take Your Daughter to Work Day”—a cherished memory that has now come full circle.

“Flying with my dad was special, but flying with my son—words can’t express how much this means to me,” said Michelle.

Michelle added that her career at Alaska Airlines has been an incredible experience, and to close her chapter with Jeff by her side is truly unforgettable.

Jeff charted his path in aviation, completing an aviation program at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, Washington.

He then worked as a flight instructor and pilot for regional carrier SkyWest before being recruited by Alaska Airlines in 2023.

While this special pairing wasn’t left to chance, the airline’s chief pilot’s office coordinated their schedules to make it happen, it may be the only time the pair will fly together, as Michelle is set to retire.

“She knew from the start how much I wanted to fly,” Jeff shared. “She’s been my mentor every step of the way.”

Alaska Airlines, which has been in operation for over 90 years, confirmed this is the first time a mother and son have flown together in the cockpit, a historic moment for the company and a fitting tribute to a remarkable career.

Source: TUKO.co.ke