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For millions of people, the name Alitalia evokes images of stylish Italian elegance, unique coffee served at 30,000 feet, and a distinctive shade of rich green, white, and red adorning the tails of aircraft. But for those who worked in its cabins, it was much more than a brand. It was a career, a family, and a significant part of their identity. Among the approximately 11,000 employees impacted by the airline's final chapter in 2021 was a woman named Manuela Imperato.
For those who worked the galleys, walked the aisles, and welcomed millions of travelers to Italy, the job was never just a paycheck—it was a lifestyle, a passion, and a commitment to hospitality at 35,000 feet.
For much of the 20th century, securing a role as an assistente di volo (flight attendant) or hostess for Alitalia was considered an elite career achievement. It represented economic independence, global travel, and unmatched prestige.
: Following the airline's dissolution, she frequently acted as a spokesperson in the media, highlighting the "slaughter" of jobs and the "humiliation" of experienced staff who were offered lower-tier contracts or left unemployed. Symbol of "Alitalia Style"
Alitalia was famous for collaborating with elite fashion houses to design its cabin crew uniforms. Designers like Giorgio Armani, Mila Schön, and Alberta Ferretti turned the airplane aisle into a runway. Wearing the Alitalia uniform meant representing the nation on the world stage, demanding a high level of professionalism, poise, and multilingual diplomacy. The Industrial and Economic Reality
Ensuring that everything from safety equipment to the catering carts—frequently stocked with premium Italian regional delicacies—was perfectly in place.
Her statement captured the core anxiety of thousands of workers. Would ITA Airways offer them jobs? Would they have to re-apply? Would their seniority and pensions be recognized? The new airline was being created with a deliberately smaller, more efficient structure, meaning there was no room for everyone.
On platforms like Instagram , where she garnered over 10,000 followers, she shared glimpses of her travels and the stylish lifestyle associated with Alitalia crews.
Among the professionals who dedicated their careers to this demanding industry, individual stories like that of offer a vital lens into what it truly meant to work as an Alitalia hostess. Her career represents more than just a job; it reflects a specific era of aviation characterized by prestigious training, global travel, and ultimate resilience during the airline's turbulent final chapters. The Allure and Reality of Being an Alitalia Hostess
The work of an Alitalia hostess is far more involved than the in-flight service passengers witness. The job is a demanding mix of safety management, customer service, and adaptability.
Emergency evacuations, ditching procedures, and firefighting.
: She is noted as being fluent in Italian, English, Spanish, and French.
Once on board, hostesses checked emergency equipment, verified catering supplies, and ensured the cabin met immaculate presentation standards. 3. In-Flight Service and Hospitality
Designed the final, elegant navy and silk uniform series, honoring traditional Italian tailoring before the airline's transition to ITA Airways.
Representing Italy on an international stage means presenting a polished image, often assisting diverse international clientele with care.
Manuela's case is a reminder that behind every bankruptcy statistic and news headline about "restructuring," there are real people. People who perfected the art of making a nervous flyer feel safe, who worked holidays and birthdays at 35,000 feet, and who loved their jobs despite the turbulence.