The Elevator Operators: Vertical Pilots

Operating tower elevators requires more skill than pushing buttons. These "vertical pilots" manage crowds, provide commentary, and ensure safety during the 300-meter journey. Sylvie Leblanc has operated elevators for 30 years, transporting an estimated 3 million people skyward.

"You develop intuition," she explains. "That businessman checking his watch will push to exit first—I position myself to prevent stampede. The family with crying baby needs calm reassurance. Honeymoon couples want a moment alone—I give them the corner."

Operators master multiple languages for basic safety instructions but communication transcends words. "A smile, a gesture, eye contact—these are universal," says Leblanc. "I've had marriage proposals in my elevator, births almost happen, panic attacks, pure joy. I'm not just driving; I'm hosting their moment."

The job's physical demands are underestimated. Standing for eight hours, constant vibration, pressure changes. "Your ears pop 50 times a day. Your legs ache. But then a child sees Paris spread below for the first time, their face lights up, and you remember why this job is magical."