Theresa Claiborne’s Post

View profile for Theresa Claiborne, graphic

Retired B787 Captain United Airlines

For one last time… This is your Captain speaking… As we descended into EWR on my final approach, memories of my entire 34-year career floated across the clouds like butterflies. I saw the smiles of millions of happy passengers, thousands of loving reunions, hundreds of safe landings, and the face of my favorite passenger I’ve ever flown with—the one who sacrificed so much for me to get to this moment—my Momma. A close friend and retired pilot advised me to soak it all in and take things slow. Calm as Captains do, my heart began to swell as I saw the water cannon salute and held back what felt like water cannons behind my eyes. Then the wheels kissed the ground—a perfect landing. Now everyone’s asking me, “What’s next?” And I tell them, “This is only just the beginning of what I believe is the best chapter of my life.” I plan to spend my days inspiring young people to follow their dreams by turning them into goals, shattering glass ceilings, and defying all odds. I’ll be calling in my friends from all around the world to share their experiences to empower the next generation of trailblazers who are destined for greatness. If they can see it, they can be it. Today, I may be retired from flying airplanes at United Airlines, but in the words of one of the G.O.A.T.s (Greatest of All Time), Kobe Bryant, “Job’s not finished.” It’s been a pleasure to be your Captain and an absolute honor to fly the friendly skies 🛬 📸 photo credit: Brianna Cabassa

  • No alternative text description for this image
Carlos J. Rodriguez

B787 Captain for United Air Lines (Ret.)

2mo

My dear Captain Theresa Claiborne , I have no words for you other than congratulations. I hope you soaked it all in slowly… Over the next few weeks and months you will go from feeling like on vacation days, to the realization of retirement. It’s been almost 8 months since my water cannon at ORD and I can tell you that it’s going to be just fine. You will be ok. You planned for this, and while you didn’t get to choose your retirement date, it arrived with fanfare and a well deserved and earned celebration. I know SOS will keep you busy and involved. Know that I am free with an open calendar to assist in any way you deem appropriate. Best wishes Captain. Clear skies and tailwinds forever…

Mario Suarez

A320 Check Airman at American Airlines/Retired Major USAF and PRANG

2mo

Congratulations TC! I am proud of you today as I was proud of flying with you in the 924th ARS at Castle AFB. Enjoy your well deserved retirement!!!

Henry Hampton

First Officer at United Airlines

2mo

Tears of joy 🥲 for me today Theresa Claiborne thanks for everything you have done for all of us

Kate Gebo

Executive Vice President Human Resources and Labor Relations at United Airlines

2mo

We all learn from you every single day - and we will continue to do so. So blessed to have gotten a chance to know you and see you change lives. You inspire us all.

Nick Franklin

Standards Captain - IT at PepsiCo Aviation

2mo

A true trailblazer!!! Nicely Done! God Bless.

Wow! Just wow. This post gave me goosebumps of pride, admiration and most of all, THANKS, Captain Theresa Claiborne. Not only did you break the glass ceiling that at times seems unbreakable, but through your perseverance, determination and drive you soared proudly through those friendly skies and made success happen. Congratulations! 🎉♥️

D Yvonne Rivers

Phoebe Marketing Group is a global business marketing , strategic planning, serving SMEs and NGOs across four continents and training in 4 languages. We build entrepreneurial ecosystems across Africa as an AGOA Advisor.

2mo

Well Done, My Sister ❤️❤️❤️🥳🥳🥳

Melinda Zisser

Helping pilots create financial flight plans, independence & freedom, in spite of furloughs, displacements & layoffs ✈ 737 Captain

2mo

Congratulations Captain Claiborne on a stellar career! I know you won't be "resting" on your laurels, but instead will continue soaring as you inspire the next generation of aviators and inspire others to pursue their dreams. So blessed to know you and excited to see you create your next impactful chapter.

John Setler

Retired Aircraft Mx. Manager Fedex Memphis.

2mo

CONGRATULATIONS 🎉. ENJOY YOUR NEXT ENDEAVOR.

Dr. George Nolly

Keynote Speaker/Veteran/Fleet Technical Instructor at United Airlines

2mo

Congratulations!

See more comments

To view or add a comment, sign in

Explore topics