Antigua and Barbuda native Bernel Simon recently made a historic homecoming in his new role as an American Airlines captain, and the was welcomed home in fine style.
Captain Simon was welcomed with a water cannon salute upon the arrival of American Airlines flight 2378 from New York. As a mark of national pride, he flew the Antigua and Barbuda national flag from the cockpit window.
- Advertisement -
The momentous occasion was attended by The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment; Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority; Joseph Samuel, acting CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority; along with Simon’s parents and other dignitaries.
Simon, who has a 20-year aviation career, was promoted to captain on May 16, 2024.
“I am deeply thankful to American Airlines for the opportunities they have provided and for believing in me throughout my journey,” Simon said. “During all my years with American, I’m proof that a little child growing up in the Caribbean with a dream of aviation and aspirations of taking flight has only one thing limiting them: the sky.”
