As travel returns, we are seeing many special, personal moments created by our industry and those that work within it. In this issue’s column, we feature two very different stories that have put a big smile on many people’s faces. And happily, both are welcome indications that the travel industry is at last emerging from crisis. We start with the US’s second largest airline, Delta, where 88 flight attendants have graduated and are preparing to take their first flights in their new roles (pictured above and below). Delta had been forced to pause this intake’s flight attendant training classes due to COVID-19 in March of last year. Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months. But their new employer said that their commitment and dedication never waned. After over 500 days of waiting, the training resumed and earlier this month the 88 finally earned their long-awaited and well-deserved wings. As you can see from the photos, they are pretty happy about it! Delta Air Lines EVP and Chief Customer Experience Officer Allison Ausband said in a LinkedIn post: “As I watch these 88 shining new faces beaming with pride take their first flights, I am reminded of the very same feelings of pride and hope that have carried me throughout my career all these years. “I have no doubt that their patience and perseverance will certainly pay off today, tomorrow, and for many more years to come, and I am thrilled to watch them soar. Congratulations, training class B of 2021, and welcome aboard!”