Our History: The Great Silver Fleet and Beyond
The story of The Silverliners is deeply intertwined with the golden age of commercial aviation. We were born out of a desire to maintain the unique camaraderie that can only be forged at 30,000 feet.
The Early Days
In 1949, three former Eastern Air Lines flight attendants recognized a problem: the strict industry regulations of the era often forced women to resign from flying once they married or reached a certain age.
Refusing to let those rules sever their friendships, they formed a social group to stay connected. They named themselves “The Silverliners” as a proud nod to Eastern Air Lines’ famous “Great Silver Fleet.”
Word quickly spread among former stewardesses, and independent chapters began forming along the Eastern seaboard.
Becoming an International Force
As the group expanded, the members realized their collective organizational skills could become a powerful force for good.
1968
Four independent chapters — New York, New Jersey, Miami, and Atlanta — gathered in Atlanta to officially form the National Silverliners.
1974
Exactly 20 years after our first major organizational meeting, a chapter in Mexico was added, officially transforming us into Silverliners International. At this landmark moment, membership was opened to current flight attendants.
A New Era
Following the tragic bankruptcy and closure of Eastern Air Lines in 1991, The Silverliners faced a crossroads.
Rather than disbanding, the organization chose to grow. We rebranded to welcome current and former flight attendants from all commercial airlines.
Today, while we will always honor our Eastern Air Lines heritage, we are a diverse, global network of aviation professionals dedicated to maintaining high standards, preserving our history, and serving our communities.