In 1976, Air Pacific took a significant step in enhancing its operations by appointing Sandra Valentine, a former air hostess and trainer with Ansett Airlines of Australia, as hostess superintendent. This newly created role aimed at improving the efficiency and satisfaction of air hostesses during a period of reorganization within the airline.
Ms. Valentine recognized the challenges faced by the previous supervisor, who had dual responsibilities of supervising and flying, often leading to conflicting demands. “It was found that previously the supervisor-cum-hostess had a great deal of work up on her,” she noted in an article published in October that year. The restructuring provided a dedicated administrative position at the head office, enabling better planning and support for the air hostesses.
Her proactive approach included implementing a forward planning program for the department, emphasizing that without planning, progress would stagnate. Additionally, Tute Daveta was appointed chief hostess to serve as a liaison between Valentine and the hostesses, responsible for addressing grievances and conducting regular check-ins with the staff.
Although Ms. Valentine was deeply engaged in counselling hostesses regarding personal issues, she also oversaw scheduling, training programs, and emergency preparedness drills. She revealed that recruiting new hostesses was essential, particularly from September to December, when turnover was highest. Training was conducted on domestic aircraft, incorporating first aid and aviation protocols to ensure hostesses were well-prepared for any situation.
The role of an air hostess, as described by Ms. Valentine, required comprehensive knowledge ranging from health emergencies to the technical aspects of the aircraft, alongside physical skills such as swimming for emergency situations. With her leadership, the hostesses under her guidance were noted for their strong work ethic and ability to engage with passengers skillfully, often being tasked with sales of items like Christian Dior perfume on flights.
Reflecting on her experience, Ms. Valentine highlighted the delicate balance of glamour and hard work inherent in the role of a hostess. She identified her time as a hostess from 1966 to 1971 with Ansett Airlines as foundational, alongside her later role as a trainer which prepared her for her new responsibilities at Air Pacific.
In her journey, personal connections were significant; after meeting and marrying renowned Fijian sportsman Curling Valentine, she shifted her focus to this new role while also nurturing their family, which included their daughter, Kara. Her move back into the aviation world after a brief stint as a secretary was driven by her enduring passion for the industry, which she believes is critical for success.
This appointment at Air Pacific highlights a remarkable evolution in gender roles within the aviation sector, as women like Ms. Valentine lead initiatives to improve workplace conditions and outcomes for fellow female employees, exemplifying resilience and a commitment to empowerment. As the industry progresses, stories such as these encourage the next generation of women and men to take flight in their respective aspirations, fostering a promising future in aviation.