Hantell “Shannie” Pooser always dreamed of becoming a flight attendant after years of travelling between South Carolina and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for treatment of a serious airway condition.
Shannie, who has Down syndrome, spent much of her childhood undergoing surgeries and medical care. During her frequent flights, she developed a strong love for aviation and became close to the pilots and cabin crew who regularly flew her to treatment.
American Airlines and its regional carrier PSA Airlines decided to make her dream special. Shannie received her own flight attendant uniform, badge and wings and was welcomed as an honorary flight attendant.
The experience continued on later medical trips. Wearing her uniform, Shannie greeted passengers, helped crews before departure and handed out snacks. American Airlines later said she had flown dozens of segments with PSA crews and had become a familiar and much-loved part of their operation.
