Southwest Airlines shared that Mackenzie “always knew she wanted to be a pilot” — she even used to dress up as her dad, who is a Captain, when she was a little girl.
A father and daughter from Arizona recently experienced a dream come true when they flew their first Southwest Airlines flight together as pilots!
Mackenzie Rennhack recently joined Southwest Airlines and marked the occasion by taking to the skies with her dad—as well as her mom, brother, and fiancé, as shared in a Facebook post by the airline.
The airline explained that Mackenzie, now a First Officer, had always aspired to be a pilot. She even dressed up as her dad for elementary school events.
“After being gifted a ‘discovery flight’ (a short introductory flight for aspiring pilots), Mackenzie realized she was destined to fly,” the airline wrote.
For college, Mackenzie attended Arizona State University and immediately joined the Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program. This program supports aspiring pilots in achieving their dreams, regardless of their prior flying experience, current career, or education.
As her dad, Michael, told KNXV-TV, Mackenzie has always been an overachiever. He said, “A 110% isn’t good enough for her; she’ll push a little harder and aim a little higher.”
Although their first flight together went off without a hitch, Mackenzie shared that the most amusing challenge was figuring out what to call her dad. She laughed as she explained, “It was weird figuring out whether to call him ‘captain,’ ‘Mike,’ or just ‘dad.’”
In a heartwarming message, Southwest Airlines concluded their post by saying, “Welcome aboard, First Officer Mackenzie; we’re so glad you’re here!”
