A flight delay in Atlanta turned into an unexpected holiday celebration thanks to Wayne Hoey, a retired U.S. Army band musician. Passengers aboard Delta flight 1238 were growing restless after more than an hour on the tarmac when Hoey decided to lighten the mood with his saxophone.
Hoey walked up and down the plane’s aisle, playing Christmas carols from memory. His performance lifted spirits, turning frustration into joy. “People were clapping, singing and cheering,” said passenger Kate Dailey, who called it a “gift to everyone.”
A passenger on a Los Angeles-bound flight spreads holiday spirit with mid-air saxophone solo 🎷🎶https://t.co/o5e9m5JW6M
— KTLA 5 Morning News (@KTLAMorningNews) December 23, 2024
After retiring from the Army, where he performed to boost morale during the Vietnam War, Hoey became a music teacher. Now living in Augusta, Georgia, he performs with the Wayne Hoey Big Band and substitutes in local schools.
On the flight, Hoey played a series of festive classics and a playful rendition of “Baby Shark” for the children. Passengers were left smiling, reminded of the power of music to unite and uplift even in difficult circumstances.
Dailey later posted on social media: “Thank you, good sir, for your service—then and now. You just renewed my faith in humanity.”
