Valerie Barrett, Global Air Charters’ Lead Cabin Attendant, enjoys spending time with her dog and visiting Thailand. Read on to learn more about Valerie.
Where did you grow up?
Boston
What education and certifications do you hold?
CPR and First Aid Certified
What makes GAC stand apart from other private charters?
GAC feels like a family and genuinely cares about its employees. It’s a special feeling, and we’re able to pass along those feelings to our passengers and make them feel at home when they’re flying with us.
What specific moment with a customer made you realize why you do what you do?
I had the privilege of flying a passenger home who had been stationed overseas for an extended period and missed the birth of his baby back home in the US. He was naturally overwhelmed with emotions during the flight, and I had the chance to sit and talk with him while he proudly showed me pictures of his baby. I was moved as I watched him walk off the plane and finally meet his beautiful baby. I will never forget that moment.
What is your favorite thing about working for GAC?
I love that GAC gives us the freedom as flight attendants to let our personalities shine and customize flight experiences for our passengers.
What do you enjoy most about your position?
Two of my favorite things in life are traveling and hosting. I’m fortunate to do both of those things every day at work. I love mixing up cocktails and creating delicious bites on board. People taste food with their eyes first, so everything I serve needs to look as good as it tastes.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a Cabin Attendant?
Probably when I was a teenager. I never traveled much growing up, and the idea of waking up in one country and going to sleep in another was so fascinating to me. I became a cabin attendant 13 years ago, and I love this job just as much now as I did at the beginning.
What is your favorite occasion to celebrate while flying?
I love throwing parties, so any chance to celebrate on the plane is a favorite. It’s always fun when we have a birthday. I get to decorate and help people start their celebrations at the beginning of their trip.
What motivates you to do the best on the job?
Every time I see people happy and smiling on the flights, it makes everything we do worth it.
In your opinion, what makes a good Cabin Attendant?
I think being able to read people is the most important, especially anticipating what people need and going the extra mile to make each flight special. People will notice and appreciate the effort if you pay attention to detail.
What was your most memorable moment with Global Air Charters?
My first flight working with GAC was a surprise birthday trip that a husband planned for his wife and their friends. None of them had any idea they were on their way to Cabo until they landed. What an incredible experience for my first flight!
What do you like to do when you aren’t flying?
I love cooking, gardening, and going for hikes with my dog. I also love concerts and beach days.
What is your favorite travel destination? Why?
It’s so hard to pick just one! But I’m going to say Thailand. The beaches, the food, the culture, the elephants. I love that place.
We’re glad to have you on the team, Valerie Barrett!
