American Airlines flight crew shares details of flight with Pope Francis

It belatedly turned out that Pope Francis (photo) who had visited the U.S. last month left crew members with a strong impression by showing his usual folksy attitude in the chartered airplane.

The Star-Telegram newspaper in Forth Worth, Texas introduced what American Airlines flight crew who transported the pope talked about. “It was the most incredible life-changing experience ever. It was a spiritual experience,” the crew members expressed a chorus of impression, remembering the moment they were blessed by the Pope as the best highlight of their life. Blessing all the crew at their request, the Holy Father said “Pray for me.”

American Airlines Captain George Griffin introduced the episode that as the plane was headed to Philadelphia, he asked Pope Francis to bless his landing. Pope Francis said he would, and in return he asked Griffin to pray for him so he would do well in Philadelphia. At one point toward the end of the flight, Pope Francis invited all of the crew members to line up and expressed his gratitude in person.

“Pope Francis didn’t want any type of special services,” said Tom Howard who is a tech specialist in the airlines, adding, “The Holy Father didn’t want any modifications to the plane that would cost extra money.” At his request, no modification was made other than the curtains added to the first class area, Vatican City flags and the papal seal.

zsh75@donga.com