An American Airlines Pilot “Returns Home” to Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda native Bernel Simon just flew home in historic fashion — in his new role as an American Airlines captain. 

Captain Simon was greeted with a water cannon salute with the arrival of American Airlines flight 2378 fro New York. 

In a gesture of national pride, Simon flew the Antigua and Barbuda national flag from the cockpit window. 

The historic event was attended by The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, Colin C. James, C.E.O of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Mr. Joseph Samuel acting C.E.O of Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority, along with Simon’s parents, among others. 

Simon, a veteran of a 20-year aviation career, was promoted to captain on May 16, 2024. 

“I am deeply thankful to American Airlines for the opportunities they have provided and for believing in me throughout my journey,” Simon said. “During all my years spent with American, I’m proof that a little child growing up in in the Caribbean with a dream of aviation and aspirations of taking flight has only one thing limiting them: The sky.”

For more, visit Antigua and Barbuda.