Air travel can be a unique experience, and how we behave on board can significantly affect not just our own comfort but also that of our fellow passengers and the cabin crew. There are some habits that we, as passengers, might unknowingly indulge in, which flight attendants actually find bothersome. In this article, we’ll explore 18 such habits and offer advice on what you should do instead to ensure a pleasant journey for everyone involved.
Over-Managing the Overhead Bins
While you might think you’re being helpful by arranging the overhead bins, it might cause unnecessary confusion and mess.
Instead: Place your items in the overhead bins promptly and then take your seat. If you notice someone struggling, offer to help, but don’t handle others’ belongings without permission.
Acting as the Airplane Monitor
Instead of calling out rule-breaking passengers yourself, which could lead to escalated conflict, inform a flight attendant if you see someone violating the rules. They are trained to handle these situations.
Self-Serving from the Refreshment Cart
Helping yourself from the refreshment cart disrupts the flight attendants’ process and could also lead to cross-contamination.
Instead: Wait your turn and let the flight attendant serve you. If you have specific dietary needs, request a special meal ahead of time or bring your own food.
Requesting Large Amounts of Water at Once
Requesting a large volume of water at once can be inconvenient, as flight attendants have to attend to all passengers.
Instead: Bring your own water bottle, filled after passing through security. If needed, you can request refills during the flight, but remember that attendants can only provide a small cup of water at a time.
Using Over-Familiar or Condescending Names
Addressing flight attendants using terms like “honey” or “sweetie” can be seen as condescending and disrespectful.
Instead: Use the name on the flight attendant’s name tag or simply say, “Excuse me.”
Only Thanking the Pilot
While it’s customary to thank the pilot, remember that the flight attendants also work hard to make your flight comfortable.
Instead: Show appreciation for the flight attendants’ service by thanking them when disembarking or after they assist you during the flight.
Keeping Your Fear of Flying to Yourself
Bottling up your fear of flying can lead to unnecessary stress and potential public meltdowns.
Instead: If you’re feeling anxious, let the flight attendant know. They’re trained to help passengers feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Inappropriately Flirting with the Flight Attendant
Overly flirty behavior can be uncomfortable and inappropriate in a professional setting.
Instead: Be polite and respectful. Remember that flight attendants are there to ensure your safety and comfort, not to be the subject of unwanted advances.
Engaging Flight Attendants in Lengthy Conversations
While flight attendants are usually friendly and outgoing, they have many responsibilities and passengers to attend to.
Instead: Limit conversation with flight attendants to essential requests or brief, polite exchanges.
Asking for Constant Updates on Flight Position
Flight attendants aren’t constantly tracking the plane’s location, and asking them for constant updates can be bothersome.
Instead: Use the inflight entertainment system, if available, to track the flight’s progress.
Removing Shoes on Long Flights
It might be comfortable for you, but it can create an unpleasant experience for others due to odor or barefoot contact with shared spaces.
Instead: Wear comfortable footwear or bring a pair of flight socks for long-haul flights to keep your feet covered.
Ignoring the Seatbelt Sign
Even if it seems unnecessary, ignoring the seatbelt sign can be a safety risk and adds stress for the flight crew.
Instead: Always obey the seatbelt sign and remain seated when it’s on.
Overstuffing the Seatback Pocket
Overstuffing the seatback pocket can make the cleaning process slower and more difficult for the cabin crew.
Instead: Use the overhead bins for your carry-on items and keep only essential items in the seatback pocket.
Hogging the Lavatories
Spending too long in the lavatories can cause inconvenience for other passengers and flight attendants.
Instead: Be quick and considerate when using the lavatories, especially during peak times like after meals.
Disregarding the “No Electronics” Rule During Takeoff and Landing
This rule is in place for safety reasons, and ignoring it can be a potential hazard.
Instead: Always follow the crew’s instructions regarding electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
Using Inappropriate Language or Making Loud Noises
Excessive noise or inappropriate language can disrupt the peace and comfort of other passengers.
Instead: Maintain a considerate volume level and avoid using offensive language.
Constantly Pressing the Call Button
Using the call button for non-urgent requests can distract the flight attendants from more pressing duties.
Instead: Use the call button only for important needs. For non-urgent requests, wait until a flight attendant passes by your seat.
Leaving Trash Around Your Seat
Leaving your trash can create extra work for the flight attendants and the cleaning crew after the flight.
Instead: Keep your area clean and use the provided trash bags or wait for flight attendants to collect trash.
Ultimately, having a smooth and enjoyable flight experience is a collective effort. As passengers, it’s essential to be aware of how our habits can affect those around us, especially the hardworking flight attendants who are there to ensure our safety and comfort. By being conscious of these habits and making an effort to change where necessary, we can all contribute to a more pleasant in-flight experience.
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