Celebrating Margaret Vatia – 32 years with Solomon Airlines

• Watch the interview with Margaret Vatia here

When Margaret Vatia left her home Gizo in the Western Province in 1989, she travelled to Honiara to pursue her dream of becoming a flight attendant for Solomon Airlines.

Not only did she achieve her dream, but she flew for Solomon Airlines for 20 years from 1990 to 2010.

Thirty-two years on since she started with the airline, now a mother of two and also a grandmother of two, Margaret’s career with the national carrier continues.  Today she is Solomon Airlines’ Domestic Airport Coordinator.

Following 20 years of flying as a cabin crew member, Margaret moved through several roles as a Switchboard Operator, Ticketing Officer, Check-in Officer, Operations Flight Coordinator to become Airport Coordinator for the airline’s Domestic airport operations.

“Apart from being my country’s flag carrier and pride, Solomon Airlines is my mother, she nurtured me into what I am and who I am today. We have shared a lot of good and challenging times. She put food on my table since 1990. Sometimes a feast and in hard times just enough to survive.

“My advice to anyone aiming to have a career is to accept the challenges and learn to grow, never break the rules and acquire knowledge from the best,” she said.

“At Solomon Airlines I truly value the people and the environment. I would not be here today if it was not for the support of my colleagues and all the leaders that have been involved in taking this company this far.

“The airline industry has its ups and downs, but so is life full of challenges,” she said.

“In life and in work I would encourage all to do things as best you know how, and as best you can.

“Try always to be loving and considerate, however also be prepared to stand your ground and speak up when you know and feel you have to do so.“