Unifi Station Manager reminisces about four-decade long career in aviation

When you've worked in aviation for as long as Michael Longo has, there is a lengthy career to look back on, and many stories to tell.

Michael began working in the industry in 1986. His career has taken him around the world – working for several airlines and airports, including Pan Am in Miami before the airline ended operations. For the past 25 years, starting in 1999, he has been station manager for Unifi (then Delta Global Services) at Albany International Airport .

"I used to work for Delta above wing years ago, back in '93, and I've worked for a few other carriers. I was working for a regional carrier in Albany, and the Delta manager I knew said, 'Hey, Delta's starting this new company.' So, I took on the challenge. We built Albany from the ground up with minimal resources."

Michael has had a front-row seat to witness changes in the aviation industry – seeing it evolve and advance with new technology – and new risks. "I would say the biggest difference is security. The whole aviation industry changed after 9/11. Security and safety became a big focus, and how we interact with people changed," he noted.

While the improved focus on safety and security has been a big plus, there has been one very visible change that, according to Michael, isn't always good. "The cellphones everywhere – it feels like that almost happened overnight, and it's so hard to get people's attention now," he say. ?"We used to talk to each other. Now, everyone is distracted by their phones."

Michael has no shortage of interesting stories from his career. One particularly memorable and frightening incident involved the transport of human remains. "The box was constructed poorly and broke while we were loading it on the flight. ?My staff stepped up and handled the situation with great care," he recalled.

Another time, he found himself locked in a flight's cargo hold after a crate of small birds escaped their enclosures. "I had to get in the bin and grab these birds. It was quite an experience for someone like me who is claustrophobic," he said, laughing.

While it's unusual these days to find someone working at the same company and in the same role for as long as Michael has, he doesn't feel like he's missing out, and in fact, has forged a team that he values tremendously.

"My right hand here has been with me for more than 20 years, and I have another handful of folks who have been here for more than 10 years. It's like a family," he shared. The support and camaraderie among his team members have been a source of strength, especially during difficult times, such as the passing of his mother.

Working in Albany, Michael has also faced his fair share of extreme weather conditions. He recalls a particularly challenging blizzard where he used a snow blower to clear an aircraft, which took six hours. "Despite the harsh conditions, my team managed to get the job done, showcasing their dedication and resilience," he said.

When it comes to hiring new employees, Michael places a strong emphasis on first impressions. "That first meeting, and appearance are crucial. How they present themselves and how serious they are about wanting to work in this industry are crucial."

And for those looking to enter the aviation industry, Michael offers advice: "Every day is different. If you enjoy a dynamic and challenging environment, this is the place for you."