Donna Robinson has been a flight attendant with Endeavor since April 2022 and has brightened countless passengers’ days with small or large gestures. Whether lending a passenger an extra jacket, creating a snack basket for a bride-to-be, or making someone’s 102^nd birthday extra special, Donna treats each passenger with purpose and care. Her actions embody who we are as an airline – putting safety and customer service at the top of our flight path.

We sat down with the LGA-based flight attendant to kick off a new series called ‘First Class Acts.’ This series will highlight our Endeavor employees as they go above and beyond for our customers and each other.

What is your favorite thing about being a flight attendant?

I am a retired bus operator and have been in the transportation industry since 1987. One of my goals in life was to become a flight attendant. Whenever a plane would fly low or take off, I would look up and say, ‘I should be on that plane,’ and now I am! I’ve always loved being around people and I’ve always loved caring for people, so for me, being a flight attendant has been the perfect second career.

Why is it important to go above and beyond for passengers?

Over the years, I’ve realized that we can’t judge people as they are boarding our planes. We need to show care for them, and they may see it in our smile, in our ‘hello,’ or even in our ‘have a good day.’ For me, that’s the best part of every day. 

What is your favorite passenger story or memory?

I noticed while doing my safety demo that the passenger in 1D was looking out his window and tears were coming down his face. After doing the safety demo, I asked the man if he was okay and if there was anything that I could do. He informed me that his partner had passed, and he just buried him. I hugged him and he cried on my shoulders. After he had gotten out a good cry, I gave him a glass of Chardonnay, which relaxed him a bit, and I made sure to check on him throughout the flight.  

What is your advice for people beginning their flight attendant career?    

Let your personality flow – you got this job because of your customer service and how you interact with others. Always greet your public with a smile, as it may be all that they need to make their stressful day better. Don’t just ‘like’ your job, but ‘love’ your job! You will shine better.

Ready to join our team of world-class professionals?