Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Miyukiko ‘Koko’ Kostelny

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today’s profile is Miyukiko ‘Koko’ Kostelny of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

Originally from the island of Guam, Miyukiko “Koko” Kostelny came full circle when she became a first officer for United Airlines; her childhood dream came true as Kostelny now flies with crew that flew her around the Pacific as a child. Along with being an ALPA member, Kostelny continues to inspire women through her work with the International Society of Women Airline Pilots, Women in Aviation, Professional Asian Pilots Association and United Airlines’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion groups. Kostelny co-founded Guam’s Women in Aviation chapter, where she enjoys hosting educational events and school visits to increase visibility of Asian American and Pacific Islander aviators to the local community.