Gailen David
Advocating for Respect in Travel, Fairness for Aviation Workers, and the Preservation of Airline History
Gailen David draws on years of experience in the travel industry to highlight the vital connection between aviation professionals and the travelers who rely on them. Understanding that the well-being and success of aviation workers are key to creating better travel experiences, Gailen is dedicated to advocating for their careers while helping his fellow travelers navigate the skies safely and comfortably. At the same time, he is committed to preserving the rich history of commercial aviation, ensuring that the legacy of air travel is accessible to future generations.
Early Career and Inspiration
Gailen’s love for aviation began early and grew into a career with a major international airline. As a Purser Flight Attendant, he focused on making travel a positive experience for passengers while understanding the needs of frontline employees. His commitment to service inspired him to create “Jetiquette,” a program designed to support airline staff in enhancing customer interactions. This initiative earned recognition, including the Travel Weekly Magellan Award, and remains a testament to Gailen’s commitment to improving the travel industry from within.
The Jetiquette® Movement
Building on his efforts to improve service culture, Gailen started the Jetiquette Movement to encourage civility and empathy among travelers and the travel industry. Through workshops and outreach, the initiative highlights the importance of mutual respect in ensuring enjoyable travel experiences.
Preserving Commercial Aviation History
In addition to his advocacy for travelers and aviation workers, Gailen is dedicated to preserving airline history. As co-founder of the Air History Project, he works to document and share the evolution of commercial aviation through exhibitions, digital archives, and collaborative initiatives. A lifelong collector of airline memorabilia, he manages the photography, digitization, and storage of historic artifacts, ensuring that aviation’s past remains an inspiration for future generations.
A key focus of the Air History Project is the preservation of the legacy of the Pan American Airways terminal in Coconut Grove, a landmark of early commercial aviation. Through historical research, restoration efforts, and storytelling, the project aims to honor the pioneering spirit of Pan Am and its role in shaping global air travel. Gailen’s passion for airline heritage is also reflected in his work with The First Flight Out, where he helps bring aviation’s golden era to life.
Books, Media, and Outreach
Gailen has written resources on travel etiquette, using storytelling to offer guidance for navigating modern travel challenges. His media appearances—spanning TV, podcasts, and articles—underscore his dedication to fairness, respect, and aviation history. Beyond travel, Gailen is involved in causes that reflect his broader commitment to community and sustainability.
Interviews: USA Today | Travel Weekly | DC Modern Luxury
A Vision for Better Travel and Aviation Heritage
Gailen invites everyone—travelers, professionals, and aviation enthusiasts—to help create a more considerate and inclusive travel culture while also celebrating the legacy of flight. Whether promoting the Jetiquette Movement or preserving history through the Air History Project, he inspires thoughtful engagement in modern and historic aviation.