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Delta Pilot’s Viral Safety Message Reassures Flyers With Ice-Cream Promise

The feel‑good clip gained traction during a federal shutdown that has slowed FAA traffic flows, disrupting schedules nationwide.

Overview

  • The captain told passengers the plane would not move "a single inch" unless both pilots were certain it was safe, framing the assurance with a promise to buy his young daughter ice cream.
  • Posted by @sisterhoodwomentravelers on TikTok, the video has accumulated millions of views and extensive media attention.
  • The message landed as FAA staffing slowdowns during the shutdown produced one of the toughest travel days Sunday, with more than 11,000 delays and nearly 3,000 cancellations.
  • Commenters identified the pilot as Christopher Pennington and said the flight was from Atlanta to Raleigh‑Durham, though Delta has not confirmed his name as outlets seek comment.
  • Reactions ranged from praise for the calming tone to concern about broader safety issues following last week’s deadly UPS cargo‑plane crash in Louisville that killed 14.