Stay Current PSA Newsroom
April 29, 2025
Arab American Heritage Month: Captain Muhaman ‘Mo’ Halawani
Arab American Heritage Month honors the arts, culture, traditions, history, and contributions of Arab American people in the United States. In recognition, we are highlighting our team members of Arab heritage who embody The PSA Way.
Today, we introduce Captain Muhaman “Mo” Halawani.
What is your heritage and ethnicity?
I’m Palestinian American. My background is rooted in a culture known for its deep family ties, hospitality, and strong sense of community. It’s a big part of who I am and how I connect with the world around me.
What was your journey to aviation and PSA?
Aviation has always fascinated me—the idea of connecting people and exploring new places really inspired me. What started as a passion turned into a career that I’m proud of. After joining PSA, I worked hard and was fortunate to upgrade to captain relatively quickly. As an Arab American Captain, I take pride in creating a sense of unity and family onboard—both with my crew and with our passengers.
Beyond that, one of my biggest motivations is being a role model for my daughter, Nour. I want her to see what’s possible through dedication, love for what you do, and by including others along the way—because when you uplift those around you, you realize just how much farther you can go in life. My hope is to build a legacy she’ll be proud of—and one day, even surpass in her own unique way.
As an Arab American, how do you feel you positively impact PSA’s culture of inclusion?
Coming from a culture that deeply values family and togetherness, I try to bring that same spirit into the workplace. I see every trip as more than just a job—it’s an adventure shared with a crew that feels like family. I do my best to create an environment where people feel supported, connected, and excited to be there. When we build that kind of bond, the work doesn’t feel like work—it feels like we’re creating something meaningful together, flight after flight. And hopefully, when the crew and passengers head home, they leave with a smile—and a sense of excitement for the next journey ahead.
What are some Arab cultural traditions or customs you hold dear?
One of the traditions I hold closest is the role food plays in Palestinian culture. Meals are more than just food—they’re a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a big family gathering around a dish of maqluba, fresh-baked mana’eesh in the morning, or sharing knafeh after dinner, food is how we connect, celebrate, and show love. It’s a tradition that reminds me of home, and I carry it with me wherever I go.
In the spirit of Arab American Month, what is it about your culture and heritage that you cherish the most?
What I cherish most about my Palestinian heritage is the strong sense of family and tradition. There’s so much warmth in the way we gather around food, celebrate special moments, and pass down customs from one generation to the next. It’s a culture that emphasizes taking care of one another—and not just within our families, but with everyone we interact with. That spirit of kindness, connection, and hospitality is something I carry with me every day.
