This comes from the category where one hopes the story is fictional. Alas, it checks out as true.
A Westjet pilot was left this note by an unhappy passenger after a routine flight Victoria and Calgary in Canada.
The note-writer apparently had questioned flight attendants about Captain Steacy’s ability as soon as she spoke over the PA system to passengers as the plane prepared for take-off. He asked them if she had enough flight hours to be flying a plane?
Ironically, Proverbs 31 lauds the virtues of an ideal woman saying not only does she ensure the hime functions smoothly but she also runs a successful business: “She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. She puts her hands to the distaff nd her hands hold the spindle.” There is nothing in that section of the Bible or anywhere else that specifically forbids women from commanding flying machines.
Captain Steacy posted the original note to Facebook with this response:
“To David in 12E on my flight #463 from Calgary to Victoria today. It was my pleasure flying you safely to your destination. Thank you for the note you discreetly left me on your seat. I respectfully disagree with your opinion that the ‘cockpit,’ (we now call it the flight deck as no cocks are required), is no place for a lady. In fact, there are no places that are not for ladies anymore.
Facebook: Carey Smith Steacy
You made sure to ask the flight attendants before we left if I had enough hours to be the Captain so safety is important to you, too. I have heard many comments from people throughout my 17-year career as a pilot. Most of them positive. Your note is, without a doubt, the funniest. It was a joke, right? RIGHT?? I thought, not.
You were more than welcome to deplane when you heard I was a ‘fair lady’. You have that right. Funny, we all, us humans, have the same rights in this great free country of ours. Now, back to my most important role, being a mother.”
Westjet responded: “We take enormous pride in the professionalism, skills and expertise of our pilots and this note is very disappointing”
The mother-of-two hopes her story will inspire more women to enrol in flying schools. I wonder if David has flown again?
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