A recent survey from Delta Airlines has prompted me to reflect on my incredible 26-year journey with this airline, which began in 1997 when it was Northwest Airlines. This reflection has compelled me to express my deep gratitude and appreciation for their service. Delta Airlines has been more than just a means of transportation; it has been a constant companion on my personal and business adventures around the world. While I want to share my story, I must emphasize that this article is not intended as a commercial for Delta Airlines. Rather, it is a heartfelt expression of my deep appreciation for their service and a special tribute to a remarkable individual, Ms. Christy Timmons.

My passion for travel was ignited at a young age when I took my very first plane ride at the tender age of 5, flying from New York to Lagos. Little did I know then that this experience would set the stage for a lifetime of exploration, adventure, and business travel. Since that momentous journey, I have traversed the globe, discovering new cultures, meeting incredible people, creating cherished memories, and conducting business on behalf of my company. Throughout this incredible journey, one name has remained constant—Delta Airlines.

Delta has been my preferred airline for a multitude of reasons, chief among them being their unwavering commitment to service excellence. As a loyal Diamond Medallion member for several years, I have experienced firsthand the exceptional level of service and dedication that sets Delta apart. Over the years, Delta has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure my personal and business travels are comfortable, safe, and memorable.

One of the standout features that have enhanced my travel experience with Delta Airlines is the Delta Sky Clubs. These exclusive lounges provide a haven of comfort and convenience in the midst of the hustle and bustle of airport terminals. They offer a wide range of amenities and services that truly elevate the travel experience.

From indulging in delicious meals and refreshments to rejuvenating showers and soothing massages, the Delta Sky Clubs cater to every aspect of a traveler’s needs. The lounges also boast well-equipped business centers, making it easy to catch up on work, conduct important meetings, or prepare for presentations while on the go. The convenience and luxury of the Delta Sky Clubs have been a source of great comfort and relaxation for me, enhancing both personal and business travel.

Moreover, these lounges are not just for business travelers. They also provide a welcoming environment for families, allowing travelers to spend quality time with their loved ones in between flights and connections. It’s the perfect place to unwind, bond, and recharge, making the overall journey more enjoyable and stress-free.

When I board a Delta plane as a long-time Diamond Medallion member, I am greeted with a warmth and appreciation that goes beyond the ordinary. The flight attendants extend a special welcome, saying, “Thank you for being a Diamond Medallion Member, Mr. Salako.” This personalized touch makes me feel valued and appreciated, and it exemplifies the extraordinary level of service that Delta provides to its loyal passengers.

It’s also interesting to note how I’ve grown to recognize familiar flight attendants on the planes and in the welcome videos. This sense of familiarity adds a personal touch to my journeys with Delta, making me feel like a part of the Delta family.

In the midst of our uncertainty and anxiety during the unforgettable night of July 5th, 2017, in Lagos, Nigeria, my family was literally stranded, and Ms. Christy Timmons, a Delta Airlines representative, emerged as a beacon of hope. She exhibited an extraordinary level of empathy, understanding, and service that will forever be etched in my memory. She not only helped us navigate the complexities of the situation but also provided us with reassurance and comfort during a trying time. Ms. Timmons’ dedication and kindness were truly exceptional, and she exemplified the values that Delta Airlines holds dear.

This experience highlighted to me the remarkable character of the individuals who make up the Delta Airlines team. It reinforced my belief that Delta is not just an airline; it is a community of caring and compassionate individuals who understand the significance of their role in making the world a smaller and more connected place.

As I reflect on my 26-year journey with Delta Airlines, which began when it was Northwest Airlines in 1997, I am reminded that it is the people behind the scenes, like Ms. Christy Timmons, who truly make the difference. They transform ordinary travel into extraordinary experiences, whether for personal exploration or business endeavors, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

In closing, I would like to reiterate that this article is not a commercial for Delta Airlines. It is a heartfelt tribute to an airline that has been a constant companion on my adventures, both personal and professional, and a salute to the exceptional individuals like Ms. Christy Timmons who make every journey memorable.

Thank you, Delta Airlines, for 26 years of extraordinary service, and thank you, Ms. Christy Timmons, for your remarkable empathy, understanding, and service on that unforgettable night in Lagos, Nigeria.  As my mentor and friend, the late Bob Proctor, had said, “gratitude is an attitude that hooks us up to our source of supply.  And the more grateful you are, the closer you become to your maker, to the architect of the universe, to the spiritual core of your being. It’s a phenomenal lesson.”  You have my deepest gratitude, Delta Airlines.

Here’s to many more years of adventure, relaxation in Delta Sky Clubs, personalized greetings, recognition of familiar faces, and exploration with Delta Airlines.

Sincerely,

Shola Salako