To be a flight attendant is not an easy job. Its their job to be nice, but if we are good to them, they’ll be extra nice to us. Here are some suggestions how to charm them.
1. Say hello! If a flight attendant greets you upon boarding at the Jetway, say hi back. A simple “good morning” or “good evening” does it.
2. Listen to the safety demo. It’s just polite. When was the last time you really listened? If it was more than a few years ago, it’s time for a refresher. At the very least don’t talk loudly to your neighbor when a flight attendant is standing in front of you trying to keep you safe.
3. Headphones off! Take your headphones off when they ask you what you’d like to drink so they don’t have to repeat it three times.
4. Be specific when ordering. When you ask for coffee or tea, specify milk or no milk, sweetener or not, without being asked as in “I’d like coffee with milk please” or “I’d like coffee, black.” Not only does it make their job easier, but everyone on the plane will get served more quickly. Same thing with the drinks.
5. Say please and thank you. As in the examples above, say please and thank you when asking for and receiving something. Again, common courtesy that will get you treated extra well.
6. Treats. It’s perfectly permissible to bring a little tasty treat for your crew. Just make sure its safety-sealed not your homemade muffins, which might be considered a safety hazard. They’re always a big hit and you may be rewarded with a free cocktail or maybe even get reseated in the exit row.
7. Pens! People are always asking flight attendants for pens, whether to complete immigration and customs forms or to simply do the crossword puzzle. Bring a few extra cheap pens, bundle them up and give them to your crewmember. It may not be as enjoyable as a box of chocolates, but they will surely put them to good use.
8. Stay out of the aisles. Make your best effort to stay out of the aisles when the carts are brought out or when the plane is boarding. Try to use the bathroom before boarding or after takeoff, but if the crew begins their service, it is best to stay seated. The carts are heavy and awkward to maneuver, and there’s no reason to become an obstacle to them unless absolutely necessary. And if a crewmember reminds you that the seatbelt sign is still illuminated, remember that they are just doing their job.
9. Tell the airline. If a flight attendant offers exceptionally nice service, most airlines have a mechanism for recognizing them. Ask for their employee number and note the flight number.
Being nice is its own reward.
