In a recent gathering with former co-workers, a story was shared about the working conditions of employees in the aviation industry during the 1960s and 1970s. It was mentioned that, despite the perception that those times were easier, the heavy work actually came in the years that followed. Viscount and Vanguard were not the only aircraft in the fleet during that era, as there were also other planes such as DC-8 freighters and Stretch DC-8s, which carried up to 200 passengers and all their belongings.
One of the most challenging tasks was loading these planes, as all of the cargo had to be hand-loaded. There were no diesel-powered toggle-controlled loaders or mechanized floor loading drives available at the time, making the job physically demanding. Despite the lack of weekends off for 5 to 6 months and the mandatory overtime hours, the job was highly coveted as it paid more than what could be earned pumping gas at a service station.
Although the work was tough, it was also fulfilling as it provided for their families and allowed them to live a comfortable life. The overtime pay was especially important in the early days of their careers, as it helped put food on the table. Despite the challenges, they look back on those days with fondness as they helped shape who they are today.
