Three decades ago, they found love. Now, they fly planes together

Joel Atkinson and Shelley Atkinson, a married couple and pilots for Southwest Airlines, embarked on their first flight together with palpable excitement. From interacting with flight attendants to posing for photos and addressing passengers, they made a big deal out of the occasion. As they settled into the flight deck side by side, anticipation filled the air, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the couple.

Their journey to this moment began three decades ago when they met as twentysomethings while flying jets in the US Air Force. What started as a friendship gradually blossomed into love, resulting in a marriage of 27 years and two children. Now, both seasoned pilots, Joel serves as the captain while Shelley operates as the first officer during their flights for Southwest Airlines.

For Joel and Shelley, piloting together is not just a profession; it’s a shared passion and a testament to their strong bond. They describe their experience of working together as “amazing,” treating layovers as “date nights” and benefiting from each other’s wisdom and judgment. Despite common misconceptions about married couples working together, they navigate their roles seamlessly, attributing their success to their friendship and mutual respect.

Their journey into aviation began separately, with Joel being inspired by the movie “Top Gun” and Shelley initially pursuing a career in college basketball. Fate brought them together at the Colorado Air Force Academy, where they formed a connection that would eventually lead to marriage. Despite initially being hesitant due to their professional backgrounds and differences, they found comfort and companionship in each other’s company.

After years of serving in the Air Force and raising a family, their love for flying never waned. Shelley’s decision to return to the skies was met with wholehearted support from Joel, leading her to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. With Joel’s encouragement and guidance from fellow pilots, Shelley overcame challenges and eventually joined Joel at Southwest Airlines.

As a pilot duo, Joel and Shelley complement each other’s strengths, leveraging Joel’s experience and Shelley’s fresh perspective. Their flights together are characterized by professionalism and camaraderie, with moments of downtime allowing for meaningful conversations about life and their shared experiences.

Beyond their professional accomplishments, Joel and Shelley cherish the opportunity to travel together and explore new destinations. Their adventures, chronicled on social media, serve as a testament to their enduring love and gratitude for the journey they’ve shared.

In essence, Joel and Shelley’s story is a testament to the power of love, companionship, and shared passions. As they continue to soar through the skies together, their bond grows stronger with each flight, reminding us that love knows no bounds, even at 36,000 feet above ground.