Passengers aboard Delta flight 1238, stuck on the tarmac in Atlanta, Georgia, received an unexpected gift of holiday cheer when one man transformed a frustrating delay into a memorable experience. As tensions rose among the cramped, tired travelers, Wayne Hoey stood up and began assembling his saxophone, ready to lift spirits with music.
What followed was an impromptu concert of Christmas carols as Hoey walked up and down the plane’s aisle, his soulful playing brightening the mood. “I was surprised and delighted,” passenger Kate Dailey said, describing how the cabin erupted in clapping, singing and laughter.
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
Hoey, a U.S. Army veteran who spent 20 years performing with the Army band during the Vietnam War, brought the same morale-boosting energy to the flight. His setlist included festive tunes, a rendition of “Baby Shark” for the kids and some playful moments that had everyone laughing.
After retiring from the military, Hoey earned a master’s degree in music education and taught middle school band in Colorado Springs. Now living in Augusta, Georgia, he works as a substitute music teacher and performs with the Wayne Hoey Big Band.
“He played really well—and everything from memory!” Dailey shared, praising his ability to turn a stressful situation into a joyful one.
Hoey’s performance was a living example of holiday kindness, leaving an impression on passengers and social media alike. Dailey’s post summed up the sentiment: “Thank you, good sir, for your service—then and now. You just renewed my faith in humanity.”
The flight eventually departed, but not before Hoey reminded everyone of the power of music to unite and uplift, even at 30,000 feet.
