In the 1960s, as flying boomed in the 1960s, women were drawn to the promise of glamorous jet-setting, the chance to see the world, and an alternative to traditional occupations. "Sky girls" had to adhere to strict weight limits at all times, or be suspended from work. They couldn't marry or have children; their makeup, hair, and teeth had to be just so. Girdles were mandatory while stewardesses were on the clock. And, most important, stewardesses had to resign at 32. This book shows how the stewardesses began to push back, helping working women get closer to workplace equality today. Her book is a rousing narrative of female empowerment, the paradigm-shifting '60s and '70s, the labor movement, and the cadre of gutsy women who fought for their rights-- and won.

Part I. Patt -- Honeybuns on the charm farm -- Gloves to grievances -- The airstrip -- Sonia in fantasyland -- What the BFOQ? -- Black mollies -- Think of her as your mother -- Do women age faster on airplanes? -- In and out of uniform -- Part II. Tommie -- Flying pianos -- Pregnancy and pursers -- The case of Mary Pat -- Men on board -- Smiling through it all -- Stewardesses for women's rights -- We really move our tails for you -- First the commies, then the feminists -- The single room contract -- Part III. Patt and Tommie -- Stay or go? -- Election day -- Professionals at last.