Sunwing Airlines marked Black History Month for a second year by operating a flight from Toronto to Montego Bay led entirely by a Black flight crew.
Captain Jeffrey Gill, based in Montreal, piloted the commemorative flight alongside First Officer Bereket Dadi from Toronto.
The cabin crew included Cabin Safety Manager Urszula Dec and flight attendants Chantele Francis, Nicole Cregg, and Cheryl Williams.
Director of Line Operations at Sunwing Airlines, Michael Simmons, played a pivotal role in making this flight a reality.
"Celebrating Black History Month through this commemorative flight is more than just recognition – it's a powerful message about progress and possibility," said Simmons.
"As someone who's spent over 30 years in aviation, I've witnessed firsthand how representation has evolved. When I started, I rarely saw pilots who looked like me. Today, by highlighting the achievements of Black aviation professionals, we're showing the next generation that this exciting industry has a place for them. This isn't just about acknowledging our past but also how we’re actively shaping the future by ensuring young people can see themselves in aviation. When they see us in the cockpit and on board as crew members, they know their dreams can take flight too."
Sunwing Airlines and Sunwing Vacations continue to support and celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians beyond February through their Brave Space Conversation series.
According to the operator, the initiative encourages ongoing reflection and highlights the achievements and challenges faced by the Black community in aviation.
While February serves as a time of reflection and celebration, Sunwing says it remains committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion year-round. As part of its DEI Strategy and EPIC Values, the company promotes a workplace culture that champions all backgrounds.
