Delta flight attendant Sandra Griego reflects on 40 years in aviation, from her early career at Pan Am to joining Delta when the companies merged. In an interview with Delta Chief People Officer Allison Ausband, Griego described the crew problem-solving and passenger connections that continue to give her work meaning.
A memorable welcome during Desert Storm
One of Griego’s proudest memories came during Operation Desert Storm. While on a London layover, she and her crew were summoned to help a group of U.S. Marines traveling home from Kuwait. The crew hurried to a record store to find American flags and other items to give the Marines a warm welcome aboard.
Griego described the experience as an honor. Her husband served in the military, she said, making the moment especially meaningful to both of them. She made the trip while flying for Pan Am, before joining Delta when the companies merged.
What has kept her flying
Griego said she has stayed in aviation for the lifestyle and variety of the work. She enjoys layovers, addressing problems as they arise and working with her crew to find solutions. Helping passengers feel heard is central to what makes a workday satisfying for her.
Before becoming a flight attendant, Griego was a preschool teacher. She said that experience informs her approach: offer options, consider what can be done and listen to the person who needs help. She likes going home knowing she heard a passenger out and was able to accomplish something.
A people-first message for colleagues
Asked what she would tell Delta employees, Griego urged them to stay positive and not take their work for granted. She encouraged colleagues to start each day by thinking about what they could do for someone else.
“This isn’t really just a job,” she said, explaining that the work can make a difference in another person’s life. Her answer echoes the value she places on everyday connections, whether with passengers or fellow crew members.
Pride in representing Delta
Griego said she is proud to be a Delta flight attendant and views wearing the uniform in the terminal as part of representing the airline. She recalled looking up to flight attendants when she was younger, wanting to wear their scarves and walk in their heels.
She has also taken part in Delta’s Employee Involvement Group and has been involved in shaping a new uniform collection. Griego previously served as a wear tester for the current uniform. She said she is excited to take part in another launch, likes the colors and feels they return to the airline’s home colors. She also praised the uniform leadership team for responding to employee concerns, which she said are still being noted.
Paris, the Dodgers and a favorite snack
Griego said she has fallen in love with Paris, which was her first trip. More recently, she has favored destinations where the Los Angeles Dodgers are playing. She and her husband often go to games together and enjoy them.
Her favorite onboard snack also brings Paris to mind: the Delta One Madeleine. Griego said passengers love it and that it is heated slightly before serving. These interests are among the personal connections she enjoys sharing with people she meets at work.
Source: Delta News Hub.
