Writing Prompt

Skyward Dreams

In the spring of 1930, the world was buzzing with a new marvel—commercial flights. It was a crisp morning in New York City, and the air shimmered with anticipation. At the small airfield tucked away in Queens, a crowd gathered for what was to be a historic flight. Among them stood Eleanor, a spirited young woman with a heart full of dreams and a mind riddled with apprehension.

Eleanor had always fantasized about flying. She had read every book on aviation and clutched the newspaper articles about daring pilots, their exploits sparkling like stars in her mind. But as she watched the large, lumbering biplane, the Aero Queen, draw closer, excitement began to mingle with trepidation. The machine was magnificent yet intimidating, with its metal wings stretching wide against the azure sky, a giant gleaming bird poised for takeoff.

“Are you sure about this?” her brother Charlie asked, his brow knit with concern. “What if something goes wrong?”

Eleanor’s heart fluttered. “It’s the future, Charlie! Look at all these people,” she gestured towards the enthusiastic crowd, their voices filled with laughter and shouts of excitement. “We can’t let fear hold us back.”

As they boarded the plane, a wave of laughter blended with nervous murmurs. The wooden benches creaked under the weight of passengers. Some clutched old leather bags, while children pressed their noses against the glass windows, their eyes wide with wonder.

Once seated, Eleanor cast a glance at her fellow travelers. An elderly couple was attempting to appear casual, the wife gripping the armrest like a lifeline. A young man sat near the front, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, scribbling fervently in a small notebook, capturing the moment as though the experience itself would be etched into history.

The engines roared to life, drowning out the cacophony outside. Eleanor felt the vibration beneath her feet, a tremor that reached deep into her chest. As the plane began to taxi, the initial thrill surged within her, yet unease crept in like a shadow. What if the plane faltered? What if they plunged from the sky?

“Just look out there!” Charlie said, nudging her elbow. Through the small window, the world outside transformed; trees shrank, streets morphed into thin ribbons of gray, and bustling city dwellers became mere dots.

With a sudden surge, the plane lifted off the ground. Eleanor gasped, her heart racing as they soared into the clouds. Her fear melted into exhilaration, the horizon unfolding before her like a vibrant canvas. She let out a laugh, the kind that bubbled from the deepest part of joy.

But the thrill was short-lived. Dark clouds rolled in, swirling ominously around them. The plane shook, a violent reminder of their fragile existence thousands of feet above the earth. Panicked whispers filled the cabin; the elderly couple clutched each other tightly, the young man’s fingers soared across his notebook in a frenzy, capturing every moment of tension.

Eleanor's stomach churned. Her dream of flight now felt like a perilous leap into the unknown. She peered out the window at the swirling tempest, the skies churning like a turbulent sea. Panic threatened to drown her excitement.

Just then, the pilot’s voice crackled over the intercom, steady and calm. “Ladies and gentlemen, we’re encountering some turbulence, but please remain seated with your seatbelts fastened. We’re navigating through it smoothly.”

That voice, so confident, rekindled a glimmer of hope in Eleanor’s heart. She closed her eyes, focusing on the rhythmic thrum of the engines against the storm’s rage. One by one, the passengers began to relax, some returning their attention to one another, stories of adventure exchanged amid bursts of laughter.

The tumult subsided as they soared above the clouds, breaking free into a brilliant blue sky lit with the golden hue of the sun. It was as if the world below had transformed into a vast, serene sea of clouds. Eleanor couldn't help but gaze in awe. Every flicker of doubt dissolved in the radiant beauty surrounding her.

As they flew on, the sense of camaraderie among the passengers grew stronger. They shared snacks, jokes, and dreams, the earlier fear transforming into exhilaration. Eleanor felt alive, a part of something much bigger—an adventure that straddled the edge of the modern world.

Eventually, the plane began its descent, the ground emerging from the sea of clouds. Eleanor’s heart raced again, but this time with excitement, not fear. They landed safely on a neat runway, the plane rolling to a steady stop.

As they disembarked, each passenger stepped onto solid ground with a glance back at the Aero Queen, a newfound reverence for the invention that had whisked them away into the wind. Eleanor took a deep breath, the scent of earth mingling with the crisp air, and grinned at Charlie.

“Can you believe we did it?” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

“Yeah,” he chuckled, “but next time, let’s take the train.”

Eleanor laughed, already dreaming of her next flight. The sky was no longer just a distant dream; it was now a canvas of adventures waiting to be painted. The thrill of flight had captured her heart, marking the beginning of a grand journey into the skies.

Once upon a time in the 1950s, when commercial flights were just becoming popular, a young woman named Amelia found herself embarking on a thrilling adventure. She had always dreamed of flying high above the clouds, and now, with her ticket in hand, she couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.

Amelia arrived at the airport, a bustling hub of activity with sleek airplanes lined up on the tarmac. She watched in awe as the propellers spun, ready to carry passengers to far-off destinations. As she stepped onto the plane, the scent of leather seats and aviation fuel enveloped her, filling her with a sense of wonder.

Finding her seat by the window, Amelia fastened her seatbelt and gazed out at the runway. The engines roared to life, shaking the plane as it taxied along. The anticipation grew with each passing moment. As the plane accelerated down the runway, Amelia felt a surge of adrenaline. And then, with a powerful surge, they were airborne.

The feeling of weightlessness washed over Amelia as the plane climbed higher and higher into the sky. She marveled at the panoramic view below—a patchwork of green fields, winding rivers, and miniature houses that seemed like toys. The world appeared so different from above, as if she had stepped into a whole new realm.

As the flight progressed, Amelia struck up conversations with fellow passengers. They shared stories of their destinations, dreams, and fears. The atmosphere in the cabin was one of excitement and camaraderie, with strangers becoming friends within the confined space.

While the plane soared through the clouds, Amelia's mind wandered, imagining the possibilities that lay ahead. She thought about the cities she would visit, the people she would meet, and the memories she would create. The thrill of exploration coursed through her veins, reminding her that she was part of a new era, one where the world was becoming more accessible.

But just as Amelia was lost in her thoughts, she noticed a sudden change in the plane's altitude. The captain's voice crackled over the intercom, announcing that they were encountering turbulence. The plane shook and jolted, causing a collective gasp from the passengers. Fear gripped Amelia's heart, but she reminded herself that this was all part of the adventure she had signed up for.

With each passing minute, the turbulence eased, and the plane steadied once more. The captain's voice reassured everyone that they were returning to smooth skies, and a sense of relief washed over the cabin. Amelia took a deep breath, appreciating the strength and resilience of the plane and its crew.

As the journey continued, Amelia's heart swelled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the miracle of flight. She realized that this new era of commercial aviation had opened up a world of possibilities, connecting people from different corners of the globe. It brought them closer, enabling them to share stories, cultures, and dreams.

Finally, after hours of exhilaration, the plane began its descent. Amelia peered out the window, witnessing the breathtaking sight of the city below. The twinkling lights and bustling streets beckoned her, promising new adventures and endless excitement.

As the plane touched down, a wave of applause erupted in the cabin, celebrating the successful journey. Amelia stepped off the plane with a newfound sense of wonder and gratitude. She had flown through the skies, overcome her fears, and discovered the magic of flight. And as she stood on solid ground, she knew that her journey had only just begun.

With swollen rolling suitcases and howling babies, the center aisle of Flight 404 was packed with harried passengers. A ridiculously hairy man in a coral Hawaiian shirt leaned over Frenchie’s aisle seat to reach the overhead compartment. His furry pannus whacked her forehead. Frenchie righted her glasses and leaned towards the window seat.

“God this entire plane smells like an Italian hoagie in an used gym sock,” Frenchie muttered to the oldster by the window seat. “Excuse me.”

Frenchie fished for her AirPods and neck pillow. Hawaiian shirt moved down the aisle and an older couple in matching sweatsuits open the overhead compartment above Frenchie again.

“Ladies and gentlemen please move to the back. There is plenty of storage in the rear of the plane,” the flight attendant said urging passengers deeper. “Please clear the aisle for the beverage cart.”

Waiting for her edible to kick in, Frenchie adjusted her sleep mask on her forehead. She playfully nudged the old man by the window.

“Make way for $14 turkey jerky and five buck almonds. Wahoo,” Frenchie said.

For the first time Frenchie looked at her row mate. Thin and wizened the man was in an old fashioned uniform. Frenchie felt the man at her elbow was a window to the past. He turned his gray washed face to Frenchie and fixed her with a watery stare.

“I remember Champagne service over the Rockies to celebrate the end of prohibition, I remember the salty bite of caviar over Stockholm and leg of lamb with cigars in seaplanes. I hope the captain remembers to turn on the autopilot over the Everglades,” the old man said.

Without another word the man turned back to the window with a papery rustle. Frenchie watched as the man fades in and out before vanishing completely. She froze as a scream bubbled to the lips. Frantically she clawed at her seat belt and raced to the exit.

TWA Fly my way Rich and famous Airplane take us

Up in the sky Very high Not for the poor Wine does pour

“Get off that contraption RIGHT NOW” to say my dad was concerned would be an understatement.

“I’ve already made up my mind and I’m already here, I’m just letting you know” he couldn’t drag me off if I tried. I’ve been searching for a sign to start a new life elsewhere so when I heard this plane thing is finally up and running, I found the first flight to anywhere and ran with it.

Come to think of it, I don’t even know where I’m going, I just packed my bags, bought my ticket and went straight to the plane.

“Excuse me, where is this flight headed?” I asked the nearest attendant

“Seattle, sweetie.” Well, that does it, I’m going to Seattle, wherever that is.

I was able to say bye to mom, but I never developed a close enough relationship with my dad to care about what he thinks- at least not since my folks separated.

But I’m here now. Come to think of it, this is out of this world- never seen anything like it. No point in being nervous, so I just anticipate what my life is going to look like in Seattle.

Some time went by before I got really light headed- except that wasn’t my head, that was the plan moving? Wild. What is this thing? By the time we got in the air, I thought my head was going to blow up. My ears popped and all I could think about was how much closer I was to my new life.

I can’t believe I’m doing this. But here I go.

Phoebe fiddled with the hem of her blue uniform shirt as she boarded the first commercial Boeing 747 in U.S. history.

She was one of 20 women to become one of first airline attendants in the country and she was enthralled with such an accomplishment.

If he were still alive, her big brother Beaux never would’ve imagined that she would be serving drinks in the sky.

She and 3 other flight attendants were onboard preparing for the incoming passengers when they got the signal to take their positions and greet the boarding passengers.

As Phoebe smiled at the people filing into the plane, she noticed a wide range of emotions plaguing their features. Some looked excited, others seemed nervous and many were curious.

Phoebe felt all of those emotions too. But she knew that she was meant for this. After everyone was on the plane and the door was closed, she went through the safety procedures and before she knew it, she was strapped in her seat and ready for takeoff.

As the nose of the plane lifted into the sky and the sounds of the engine roared Phoebe gripped the arm rests. She went through many trainings and simulations but this was the real thing and she couldn’t help but feel wary about the takeoff.

Once they were in the air at a safe altitude, she and the other attendants prepared snacks and drinks to distribute to the customers.

She smiled at those who looked nervous and soothed them with crackers and water. This seemed to calm the people’s nerves and even her own.

The pilot announced that they would be landing in Michigan in 15 minutes, so after collecting all of the trash from the passengers, Phoebe buckled herself back in her seat and prepared for landing.

Her heart beat wildly as she realized that her first flight was going to be successful. As the plane began to descend, the sound of metal clanging and rattling grabbed her attention.

She looked at Heather, who sat across from her, with a questioning look. This wasn’t normal. After a few seconds, the pilot announced that they would be making an emergency landing and that everyone should stay buckled and still.

Phoebe’s heart began to pound and she almost panicked, but she remembered to stay calm for her mental well-being and of the passengers.

She closed her eyes and leaned her head back in her seat. She wasn’t the religious type but she found herself praying to God.

A few minutes later the bump of the wheels hitting the tarmac shook the plane causing Pheobe to lurch forward against her seatbelt. Seconds later, the aircraft slowed down and Pheobe was able able to catch her breath again.

“Welcome to Michigan” the pilot announced as cheers rang through the aircraft. Pheobe made history and she thrilled that she was alive to tell the story. Beaux would be proud.

It’s 1914 and today they announced the first passenger served plane. I’m one of the 2 passengers. Are pilot is Mr. Jannus, He insured us that it will be a good flight. I’m very scared because this is the first and what If something bad happens. I sat tense on the plane. I was shaking and scared. I sat and ate my peanuts. We started the landing process which was the worst part. We landed and I set off to be a nurse on the battle field. The battle field made me realize the plane wasn’t the worst thing I’ll go through. But was it safe…

Penelope sneezed. She quickly grabbed her handkerchief and pressed it against her nose.

“Oh,” she said to the young gentleman wearing a green suit who was sitting next to her. “Do excuse me. I do sneeze when I am nervous.” Penelope could hear her voice rising as she spoke. She tucked one of her red curls behind her ear, also a nervous habit, and looked into the eyes of the man next to her. “Is it your first time too?” she asked. “On the plane? Oh, I do tend to babble when I am nervous as well. Do excuse me.”

The man coughed, and his mustache shook. “Yes,” he said. And that was all that he said.

Penelope leaned in closer to him, expecting more. She heard only silence. She sat back up in her seat. She felt incredibly disappointed. Should she try again? She would. “Then,” she said, “you must also be nervous?”

The man looked away from her

Penelope deduced that this must mean she was correct. She had figured out his secret, and he must be shy about it. She smiled, eyes alight with smug pride. “There’s nothing wrong with being nervous,” she continued. “I am quite frequently nervous myself. There’s no need to pretend to be strong.”

The man looked up at her. “I am not nervous,” he said.

“Oh,” Penelope said, “of course, you are unable to admit it, but we will be in solidarity in secret.”

“There is nothing wrong with being nervous,” the man agreed, “but I am not nervous. And there is something wrong with talking too much.” The man stood and walked to the other side of the room and sat.

Penelope stared after him with her mouth open. She couldn’t believe his nerve after she’d tried so hard to be nice to him and to calm his nerves.

She sat back in her seat and waited to be called to board the plane. But she did feel so nervous. She sneezed and tucked her hair and babbled to a woman in a pink dress who was sitting across from her.

Then, at long last, Penelope boarded the plane, her first plane. She walked down the aisle and looked for her seat. She found it. She gasped with shock.

And there, sitting right there, right next to her seat, was the man in the green suit. She was to spend an entire hour next to him in this plane.

Penelope suddenly felt more nervous about being forced to sit next to the man in the green suit than she did about flying for the first time. She sat down next to the man in the green suit.

Penelope sneezed. “Oh,” she said as she grabbed her handkerchief, “I do sneeze when I am nervous.”

“Not bad at all!” Frank exclaimed, “Little more room than buses have. If they get us from Houston to LA in under six hours I would say the ticket price is worth it.”

“I just wish these things served alcohol. I’m second guessing how this could work. How could we “fly”?”

“You mean how could this thing stay in the air with all our weight, Bob? Hell, your guess is as good as mine, but it’s been done! You knew what you were signing up for, don’t back out now! My brother flew one last week, said it was fine!”

“Sure, but I just cannot wrap my head around it. Did you happen to bring any booze?”

“Sure thing, Bob. Here’s my flask. Maybe one day you could even get a Bloody Mary on this thing - ha, how special would that be? The future is coming at us fast! Flying cars by 1970, no doubt.”

“No doubt, Frank.”

How? I ask myself. How could such a thing really be truly real? But sure enough I find myself lifting up, My stomach gets this nauseating feeling like it’s doing the flip flop. I’m certain I’m about to throw up, but then it settles. I shake my head from side to side popping my ears. Well…. I think to myself. That was an experience. Then suddenly my breath catches, Outside my window is the most beautiful view I’ve ever seen. The ground is made of clouds that look so fluffy I’m tempted to jump out the window and sink into it, And over it is a sunset unlike any other, Pastel oranges fade into pastel pink which is followed by a hazy sun. If this is what flying is. Then it’s worth it.