Bernel Simon’s journey from the sun-drenched shores of Antigua to the commanding cockpit of an American Airlines jetliner is nothing short of inspiring. As a young boy growing up in the Caribbean, Bernel would gaze up at the planes flying overhead, dreaming that one day he, too, would take to the skies. Little did he know that his ambition would not only lead him to become a pilot but also see him returning to his homeland as a captain for one of the world’s largest airlines.
Bernel’s story is one of determination, hard work, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams. From his earliest days, it was clear that he was captivated by flight. He would spend hours watching the planes at V.C. Bird International Airport, fascinated by their power and grace. His interest in aviation only deepened as he grew older, and he began to nurture the idea of becoming a pilot. In a place where opportunities in aviation were scarce, Bernel knew he would have to overcome significant challenges to realize his dreams.
After completing his education in Antigua, Bernel decided to pursue his passion in the United States. Leaving behind his family and friends, he enrolled in a flight school in Florida, where he would take his first steps toward a career in aviation. The path was not easy. The rigorous training, long hours of study, and the financial burdens weighed heavily on him. But Bernel was not one to back down from a challenge. With a relentless drive to succeed, he earned his private pilot’s license, then his commercial pilot’s license, and eventually, the much-coveted airline transport pilot certification.
Breaking into the airline industry proved to be another hurdle. Bernel began his career flying smaller planes for regional carriers, logging countless hours in the cockpit, often in challenging weather conditions and on demanding schedules. But with each flight, his experience grew, and so did his reputation as a skilled and dependable pilot. His dream of flying for a major airline seemed within reach, and he never lost sight of his ultimate goal: to return to Antigua as a captain for a major international carrier.
After years of dedication and perseverance, Bernel’s big break came when American Airlines offered him a position as a first officer. It was a monumental achievement, not just for him but for his entire family and the community that had supported him along the way. With American Airlines, Bernel had the opportunity to fly all over the world, from bustling metropolises to serene islands. But no matter where his flights took him, his heart always remained in Antigua.
In 2024, after climbing the ranks within American Airlines, Bernel achieved his long-held dream of becoming a captain. The promotion was a testament to his skill, experience, and the respect he had earned from his peers. But what made this accomplishment even more special was the opportunity it afforded him to fly into V.C. Bird International Airport as the captain of an American Airlines flight, a moment he had dreamed of since he was a child.
As Captain Simon prepared for his first flight home, he was filled with a sense of pride and nostalgia. The flight was a symbolic journey, representing not just his career success but also his return to the place where it all began. As the plane descended over Antigua, Bernel could see the familiar landscape below— the rolling hills, the turquoise waters, and the towns and villages he knew so well. It was an emotional moment, one that he had envisioned for many years.
Upon landing, Bernel was greeted with a hero’s welcome. The airport staff, local officials, and members of the community came out to celebrate his return. For many young Antiguans, Bernel’s journey was a beacon of hope, a reminder that with determination and hard work, dreams could indeed take flight. His success was not just personal; it was a source of pride for the entire nation.
Captain Simon’s return to Antigua as an American Airlines captain was more than just a professional milestone. It was a powerful message to the youth of the Caribbean— a message that no dream is too big, no goal too lofty. Bernel took the time to visit schools, sharing his story with students who, like him, had big dreams of their own. He emphasized the importance of education, perseverance, and the belief that with enough effort, anything is possible.
His homecoming also highlighted the importance of representation in the aviation industry. Bernel’s success story resonated deeply within the community, inspiring a new generation of aspiring pilots. It underscored the idea that the skies are not just for those born into privilege but for anyone willing to put in the work to reach them.
For Bernel, flying back to Antigua as a captain was not the end of his journey but a new chapter. He continues to fly for American Airlines, taking pride in every flight that brings him back to the Caribbean. Each time he lands in Antigua, he is reminded of how far he has come, and he remains committed to giving back to the community that nurtured his dreams.
The story of Captain Bernel Simon is a reminder that the journey to success is rarely a straight path. It is filled with twists and turns, challenges and triumphs. But with determination and resilience, those dreams can be realized, no matter where they begin. As Bernel continues to soar through the skies, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of countless others, proving that the sky is not the limit— it is just the beginning.
