25 Years Later: A Message from Your AFA EAP

25 Years Later: A Message from Your AFA EAP

This coming September marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001

terrorist attacks, a day that forever changed the Flight Attendant profession, the aviation

industry, and for many, our own personal lives. Twenty-five years later, many of us still

carry memories of where we were that morning, the uncertainty that followed, and the

profound impact the tragedy had on our careers and our sense of safety. Others entered

the profession after 2001 yet continue to serve in an industry shaped by the lessons

learned from that day. Regardless of when you began flying, anniversaries of traumatic

events can stir strong and difficult emotions unexpectedly. You may notice sadness,

anxiety, vivid memories, difficulty sleeping, or a renewed sense of grief. These reactions

are normal and can occur even decades later. Trauma does not always follow a

timeline, and there is no "right" way to remember. 

As we pause to remember this solemn anniversary, we are also reminded of the remarkable resilience of the Flight Attendant community. In the years since 9/11, Flight

Attendants have faced additional tragedies, public health crises, workplace violence,

economic uncertainty, and countless critical incidents. Through each challenge, Flight

Attendants have continued to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism and compassion.

The AFA Employee Assistance Program encourages every Flight Attendant to

care for themselves as intentionally as they care for their passengers and flying

partners. If this anniversary brings up difficult emotions, reach out to someone you

trust. Talk with a fellow Flight Attendant, a family member, or an AFA EAP

representative. Connection remains one of the most powerful tools for healing.

Remember, your AFA EAP is here to listen, provide confidential support, and

connect you with additional resources whenever needed. Your local EAP committee

members can be reached through the AFA EAP helpline at 855-433-8232 x5