From Ramp Agent to Pilot: Justin Mutawassim’s Inspirational Journey at Delta Air Lines”
Justin Mutawassim, a 27-year-old African American, fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot at Delta Air Lines, where he once worked as a ramp agent. His journey, chronicled by the Washington Post, began at the age of 5 when he first explored the cockpit of an airplane, igniting his passion for flying.
Despite facing discouragement from a middle school teacher who wrongly claimed perfect vision was a requirement for pilots, Mutawassim remained determined. Initially pursuing a career in broadcasting after high school, he eventually returned to aviation, finding it more fulfilling.
Joining Delta as a ramp agent in 2014, Mutawassim’s enthusiasm for aviation resurfaced. With perseverance, he rose through the ranks to become a supervisor and instructor. However, it wasn’t until he met mentor Ivor Martin, a Black pilot, in 2016 that he gained the confidence to pursue his dream.
Under Martin’s guidance, Mutawassim completed his licenses in less than a year. By 2018, he began working as a pilot for regional and startup airlines. seizing an opportunity at Delta in 2022 after learning that a college degree was no longer a requirement for pilots.
Celebrating his achievement on Twitter, Mutawassim shared a transformational photo from his days as a ramp agent in 2016 to becoming a Delta pilot in 2022. Now based in New York City, he is pursuing a degree in Aviation Science while working towards his goal of becoming a captain. Additionally, he pays it forward by mentoring aspiring pilots, continuing the cycle of support and encouragement that propelled him to success.