A retiring Southwest Airlines captain's final flight was transformed into an emotional and viral moment when his daughter, who served as his first officer, delivered a surprise tribute. Captain Jim Curtis, who is concluding a 43-year aviation career including 21 years in the Air Force and 22 with Southwest, was joined by his daughter, First Officer Julia Curtis, for his "fini-flight."
During the flight, Julia addressed the passengers, expressing her deep admiration for her father, whom she called her greatest mentor. She credited him with inspiring her to pursue a career in aviation and for teaching her valuable life lessons.
Appearing on "Fox & Friends Weekend," Jim Curtis shared that he struggled to maintain his composure during his daughter's speech. "I spent 30 years trying to have a stern profile. And people noticed my lip quivering, and so I was just lucky to be able to keep it together," he said.
Julia Curtis stated that the opportunity to fly alongside her father and express her gratitude was a deeply special experience. She explained that her father's guidance, particularly his emphasis on mindset and work ethic, significantly contributed to her own career achievements. "The two things you can control are your attitude and your effort," she recalled him saying. "And he said, if you show up with a positive attitude and give a good effort with whatever you're doing, good things should follow."
Captain Curtis is retiring to a family farm where he plans to grow walnuts with his wife. The airline industry mandates retirement at age 65, often marked by a ceremonial final flight.