Saying Goodbye to Spirit Airlines: A Flight Attendant’s Story

Saying Goodbye to Spirit Airlines: A Flight Attendant’s Story

Behind every airline is a huge group of hardworking people ensuring the safety and comfort of every flight. It is the frontliners who truly run the show and are the real heart of aviation. But what happens to the thousands of aviation professionals when an airline disappears? In this episode, we are talking with former Spirit Airlines flight attendant and union representative, Donald Gionta. Donald was with the airline for 8 years and is here to share his memorable experiences with Spirit, his journey, and how he started as an aviation professional. Get ready to laugh, feel sentimental, and enjoy our "Spirited" conversation this week. To all the Spirit Airlines crew listening or watching us, our hearts and best wishes are with you. Whether you continue in the aviation industry or not, you’ll always be a flight attendant and a part of our Galley Gang! Episode Highlights: [0:00] Welcome to Episode #38! [1:29] Donald & the sweet proposal [5:16] Spirit making aviation more accessible [8:06] Donald’s aviation story [10:59] Aviation professionals come from everywhere [12:20] The universe speaks to us in mysterious ways [13:56] Donald’s favorite memories with Spirit  [16:05] Flying out for tacos and tequila? [17:24] What people wish they knew about Spirit Airlines [18:31] Disconnect, even for a bit [22:10] The aviation industry is so interesting [23:15] Changing airlines is not easy [26:05] Navigating two bankruptcies [29:15] Coping with the fall [32:22] Showing support as a union representative [34:18] Dealing with the shock  [38:38] How other airlines support the Spirit crew [41:17] What’s next for Donald? [44:12] One thing we’ll miss most about Spirit [45:29] Donald’s message to the Spirit crew [47:10] People are the heart of aviation [47:59] Let’s play Cross-checked! Text us or leave us a voicemail! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458177/fan_mail/new] Join us for an unforgettable Christmas Markets adventure through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in December 2026! Experience festive markets, charming medieval cities, holiday treats, and the magic of three countries in one incredible trip... View the Itinerary + Book Your Spot [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/estonia/estonia-with-two-guys-on-a-plane-dec-2026] ✈ Join our official community for exclusive merch, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. We couldn't do it without you! Join the Galley Gang on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/twoguysonaplane] ✈ Have a funny, wild, or heartwarming travel story from a flight that you’re dying to share with us? Submit your story at the link below and we could feature your story on an upcoming episode of the show! Submit Your 'Galley Gossip' Story [https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcast/] ✈ This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app! If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out StaffTraveler for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download StaffTraveler [https://stafftraveler.com/twoguys]

Pride in Aviation: Why LGBTQ+ Representation Matters

Happy Pride Month, everyone! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ Let’s appreciate how far we’ve come as a community—how we’ve earned our place, gained a meaningful representation, and how we can walk freely and fearlessly anytime, anywhere. While there are still stereotypes surrounding the LGBTQ+ community and so much work to be done in breaking those stigmas, we can’t help but be proud of the progress and effort each of us is putting in to make our voices heard and our presence felt. “Why are many flight attendants gay?” We’ve been asked this a lot, and when we really think about it, it’s likely because they feel safer in our industry! In this episode, we’re diving into all things queer in aviation. We’re squashing stereotypes, talking about why true representation matters, and unapologetically, being ourselves (Sorry, not sorry!). Here is what Pride looks like at 35,000 feet!  Episode Highlights: [0:00] Welcome to Episode #37! [1:00] #1 reason people visit our website [1:48] Rich had fun doing turns [4:26] Drew & what pins represent [5:44] Being a safe space for someone [7:42] The stereotype [8:55] Have conversation with people first [11:08] Celebrating YOU in the aviation industry [14:14] Are flight attendants getting enough media representation? [16:56] Now, it's getting better! (ask flight attendants) [18:39] The industry & the queer community [20:32] Mindset shifts, empowerment [22:17] Traveling anywhere, safely, and without judgment [23:46] Rainbow pins & lanyards [25:37] Uniform diversity (Airlines, listen!) [29:18] StaffTraveler is super convenient [31:03] The true essence of Pride celebrations Text us or leave us a voicemail! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458177/fan_mail/new] Join us for an unforgettable Christmas Markets adventure through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in December 2026! Experience festive markets, charming medieval cities, holiday treats, and the magic of three countries in one incredible trip... View the Itinerary + Book Your Spot [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/estonia/estonia-with-two-guys-on-a-plane-dec-2026] ✈ Join our official community for exclusive merch, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. We couldn't do it without you! Join the Galley Gang on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/twoguysonaplane] ✈ Have a funny, wild, or heartwarming travel story from a flight that you’re dying to share with us? Submit your story at the link below and we could feature your story on an upcoming episode of the show! Submit Your 'Galley Gossip' Story [https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcast/] ✈ This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app! If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out StaffTraveler for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download StaffTraveler [https://stafftraveler.com/twoguys]

The Ultimate Non-Rev Travel Survival Guide

Have you seen the standby list in July? If you have, then you completely understand the stress and crazy things passengers go through at this time of the year. Non-Rev travel in the summer is not for the weak! You need a solid backup plan, good weather, and hopefully—an extra tablespoon of patience. Non-revving can be chaotic, and that’s okay! It has taught us the value of patience and flexibility.  Plus, our loved ones always get a thrilling sense of adventure out of it!  In this episode, we are sharing our ultimate Survival Guide for Non-Rev flyers. Here are the 15 most important travel tips you need to survive the summer fiasco! For new merch, practical travel advice, and more aviation gossip, join the Galley Gang! Episode Highlights: [0:00] Welcome to Episode #36! [1:16] Drew & union duties [2:32] Rich & crazy people  [5:45] Non-rev & standby [6:34] Tip #1: You need StaffTraveler! [8:50] Chaotic summer travel experiences [11:27] Tip #2: Stay flexible [12:23] Tip #3: Avoid peak travel times [13:15] Tip #4: First flight only [13:54] Tip #5:Backup plans are essential [15:07] Tip #6: Get ready for connecting flights [17:06] Tip #7: Small baggage is queen [17:49] Tip #8: Pack for every scenario [19:17] Tip #9: Dress comfortable [20:37] Tip #10: Monitor flights constantly [22:09] Tip #11: Be nice to the crew! [23:23] Tip #12: A backup ticket [25:20] Tip #13: Extra time on both ends of your trip [27:19] Tip #14: International standby [29:02] Tip #15: The art of airport survival [30:59] We’ve got to love non-rev trips [31:35] A tarot reading inflight? Text us or leave us a voicemail! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458177/fan_mail/new] Join us for an unforgettable Christmas Markets adventure through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in December 2026! Experience festive markets, charming medieval cities, holiday treats, and the magic of three countries in one incredible trip... View the Itinerary + Book Your Spot [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/estonia/estonia-with-two-guys-on-a-plane-dec-2026] ✈ Join our official community for exclusive merch, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. We couldn't do it without you! Join the Galley Gang on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/twoguysonaplane] ✈ Have a funny, wild, or heartwarming travel story from a flight that you’re dying to share with us? Submit your story at the link below and we could feature your story on an upcoming episode of the show! Submit Your 'Galley Gossip' Story [https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcast/] ✈ This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app! If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out StaffTraveler for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download StaffTraveler [https://stafftraveler.com/twoguys]

How Volunteer Pilots Are Changing Lives Across America

This week, we are flying with a purpose. We recently connected with a team of inspiring individuals who work to make a resounding impact in their communities. Galley Gang, let’s remember that even our smallest acts of service can truly create a ripple effect that inspires change. In this episode, we are joined by Reid & Alé from Elevated Access [https://www.instagram.com/elevatedaxs]—a non-profit organization that connects individuals who need to travel for gender-affirming care and abortion care with their growing network of volunteer pilots. Enjoy an immersive, eye-opening conversation about aviation, inclusion, and making a positive impact in our world. Donate or volunteer here: Elevated Access [https://www.elevatedaccess.org/] Chapters: [0:00] Welcome to Episode #35! [0:56] Meet Reid & Alé, Elevated Access  [1:42] Alé & turbulence [3:53] Reid & a crazy 24-hour flight [7:42] Alé in entering the world of aviation [8:46] What is Elevated Access? [11:05] The Process  [13:18] Types of care people are traveling for [17:17] The lack of access [20:56] Vetting process for volunteer pilots [23:53] Misconceptions about Elevated Access [25:31] A purpose supported by airlines! [29:34] What makes their work more important than ever? [35:36] Reid & Alé’s meaningful stories   [39:39] The aviation industry and inclusion [50:26] Let’s be supportive and more compassionate [59:50] Words of wisdom  [1:03:07] Support the cause! [1:05:35] Let’s play Cross-Checked! Text us or leave us a voicemail! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458177/fan_mail/new] Join us for an unforgettable Christmas Markets adventure through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in December 2026! Experience festive markets, charming medieval cities, holiday treats, and the magic of three countries in one incredible trip... View the Itinerary + Book Your Spot [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/estonia/estonia-with-two-guys-on-a-plane-dec-2026] ✈ Join our official community for exclusive merch, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. We couldn't do it without you! Join the Galley Gang on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/twoguysonaplane] ✈ Have a funny, wild, or heartwarming travel story from a flight that you’re dying to share with us? Submit your story at the link below and we could feature your story on an upcoming episode of the show! Submit Your 'Galley Gossip' Story [https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcast/] ✈ This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app! If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out StaffTraveler for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download StaffTraveler [https://stafftraveler.com/twoguys]

Flight Attendants Reveal Shocking Passenger Red Flags

Are flight attendants judging you? (Maybe, just a little). In reality, we are focused on your safety and on-watch for potential threats or issues that might arise onboard.  In this episode, we’re reacting  to passenger red flags and how we “calmly” deal with them—from coping with rude remarks to managing a large group of rowdy adults. Trust us, a day in the life of a flight attendant is never short of drama and wild sights! A simple gesture of appreciation can completely change our day. Join the conversation on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@twoguysonaplane/post/DVKQXx5DZHz?xmt=AQG0KBWhyxQmL-5RZ9uM5C1_HDWdMMtIMqa3DWR5fBNZTBY38DAHQlnszXOJm5z6BasrHSxF&slof=1]! Episode Highlights: [0:00] Welcome to Episode #34! [1:07] Are flight attendants judging us? [1:41] Ask the Audience! [2:05] Rich’s flight updates (Wait, WHAT?!) [4:51] Drew is in passenger mode [5:52] #1: Intentionally slow boarders [6:45] #2: Tight connections [8:30] #3: Your bag WILL NOT fit there, Ma’am [9:21] #4: “I know my seat” [9:53] #5: Water, please… [11:21] #6: Ignoring the crew’s greetings [13:17] #7: Blaming us for a missed connections [13:51] #8: Telling us to smile more [15:10] #9: You need time apart…for like 7 minutes [16:06] #10: Use the bathroom before boarding [17:45] #11: A loud and rowdy group of adults [18:36] #12: Handing us trash as they board [19:33] #13: Pilot cards (not all airlines have them) [21:10] #14: Nope, we’re not doing that [21:31] #15: Moving other people’s bags  [22:13] #16: Hey Captain, don’t tap the fuselage [23:30] #17: “They” will take care of it [24:23] #18: Well, that’s rude. [25:29] #19: Alcohol first, really? [26:27] #20: Call button isn’t a toy [29:03] #21: Complaining about literally anything [29:47] #22: Enormous backpacks are not cute [30:59] #23: Status fliers & getting away with rules [32:56] #24: Aggressive questions [34:19] #25: Nonsense for free stuff [35:51] #26: Thinking that they’re funny [37:15] Fan comment: Why are people so feral? [39:20] Let’s play Cross-Checked! For more travel updates, jaw-dropping aviation stories, and cool merch, join the Galley Gang! Text us or leave us a voicemail! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458177/fan_mail/new] Join us for an unforgettable Christmas Markets adventure through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in December 2026! Experience festive markets, charming medieval cities, holiday treats, and the magic of three countries in one incredible trip... View the Itinerary + Book Your Spot [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/estonia/estonia-with-two-guys-on-a-plane-dec-2026] ✈ Join our official community for exclusive merch, early access, behind-the-scenes footage, and more! As independent podcasters, we rely on audience support to keep our show going. We couldn't do it without you! Join the Galley Gang on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/twoguysonaplane] ✈ Have a funny, wild, or heartwarming travel story from a flight that you’re dying to share with us? Submit your story at the link below and we could feature your story on an upcoming episode of the show! Submit Your 'Galley Gossip' Story [https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcast/] ✈ This episode was brought to you by StaffTraveler, the #1 non-rev app! If you travel on standby and are looking to make your journey easy and stress-free, check out StaffTraveler for free in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download StaffTraveler [https://stafftraveler.com/twoguys]