The world’s longest-serving flight attendant, Bette Nash, has passed away at the age of 88. The news was announced by her employer, American Airlines, on X (formerly Twitter), where the airline mourned her death and celebrated her remarkable career.

Nash began her remarkable journey in 1957 when she started working as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines, which later became part of American Airlines. She held the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving flight attendant, dedicating nearly 70 years of her life to the aviation industry.

Throughout her illustrious career, Nash became a familiar face to frequent flyers on the shuttle route between Washington D.C., where she lived, and Boston. She preferred this route as it allowed her to return home every night, a decision she made early on in her career.

Despite initially intending to stay for just a few years, Nash ended up making a lifelong commitment to the profession she loved. She never officially retired, continuing to inspire generations of flight attendants with her dedication and passion for her work.

In a 2017 interview with the BBC’s US partner, CBS News, Nash shared her secret to a long and fulfilling career: “The people are exactly the same. Everybody needs a little love.”

Sadly, Nash passed away on May 17th in a hospice, after recently being diagnosed with breast cancer. The Association of Professional Flight Attendants, the union that represented Nash, expressed their deep sorrow over her passing, stating that she will always be an integral part of their history and will not be forgotten.

Bette Nash’s legacy as the world’s longest-serving flight attendant will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate aspiring aviation professionals for years to come. Her unwavering commitment to her craft and her dedication to providing exceptional service to passengers will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her during her remarkable career.