10 Simple Ways to Get on a Flight Attendant's Good Side
Walking onto the plane is the final step in the whirlwind experience that is the modern airport. Between luggage upcharges at check-in and the herding of barefoot passengers that is the security check point, by the time you get to the gate there’s no doubt you could be a little frustrated. Fear not, when you cross the threshold into your plane, your feet can finally catch a break and maybe you can even get some shut eye. There you will also find people to make sure you’re comfortable and safe - your flight attendants. Here are some simple ways you can get on their good side, because at the end of the day, you will want to.
1. Say hi.
Believe it or not, a friendly greeting from a passenger goes a long way these days. Flight attendants are used to seeing disgruntled passengers, many of which don’t even respond to a welcoming smile. Get off on the right foot with the people who will be taking care of you for a couple of hours or more - make a little eye contact and say hello. If you’re feeling friendly, introduce yourself and/or learn their name. Chances are you will be remembered, and this may be to your benefit during the flight. More on that later!
2. Don’t talk on your phone or hold a conversation during the safety demo.
We get it, more than likely you’ve seen this before, and it’s not something you particularly care to think about. But for the sake of your fellow passengers, maybe the one who is afraid of flying and really wants to hear the instructions, hold the chit chat for those 2 minutes.
3. Keep your feet out of the aisle.
While you may think you’re scoring some extra leg room when the carts aren’t going down the aisle, remember that space is a flight attendant’s walking path. If the lights are dim or set to night, there’s a good chance you’ve created a dangerous obstacle.
4. Be ready to order or politely decline.
Unless you’re sitting in Business or First Class, chances are your drink choices are always the same. Sodas, juices, water and coffee are the standard, and you will be asked if you want ice or not. If you want something stronger, be prepared and have your card out to be swiped. On long haul flights or in business class you may be offered a meal. Listen to what the flight attendant is offering other passengers or check out the options that are available in your inflight magazine. When they come to you, stop what you’re doing and be ready to tell them what you want. Not interested in ordering? Take a second to politely decline, a friendly head shake will suffice instead of avoiding eye contact or waving your hands.
5. Don’t hang out in the galley.
While the large space may draw you like a moth to a flame, avoid going into the galley to stretch or do some yoga poses. Think of it as the office for the flight attendants. Not only is this where they work from, it’s also the only place they can sit comfortably, so having someone come in to do downward facing dog is a little strange (oh yes, it happens). Typically, galleys that are large enough for this are on larger aircraft, meaning there are other spaces that are better suited for some toe touches. The areas in front of exit doors in the cabin are a great place to get some blood flowing without being in the way.
6. Not feeling okay? Say something.
The primary job of a flight attendant is to make sure you are safe, and knowing that there’s potential you may not be is important. Fearful flyer? Let your flight attendant know. It’s nothing they haven’t seen before and they will be ready to help you if things aren’t going well. Feeling queasy? At the very least they may be able to prevent you from losing your lunch all over your neighbor.
7. Wait until the end of service to get up and head to the lavatory.
Have you ever had someone slowly walk very closely behind you for an extended period of time? It’s a strange feeling, and definitely not enjoyable, even for flight attendants. Instead of getting up and starting a Conga line behind the flight attendant as they continue serving other passengers, check to make sure the aisles are clear before you head towards the nearest lavatory.
8. Be Ready.
Before departure and before landing the protocol is always the same. Make sure your seatbelt is on, your chair is not reclining, and your bag is completely under the seat in front of you. While it may seem like a mundane task, the longer it takes for every passenger to comply, the longer it takes the wheels to get on or off the ground. When you do finally touchdown, get ready to leave the plane. Flight attendants are only paid while the aircraft door is closed, and they’re just as ready to leave the plane as you should be.
9. You bring it, you sling it.
This is a popular saying in the industry for a reason, and it requires very little explanation. While flight attendants are there to help with bags, please be aware that if you feel you shouldn’t lift it, they probably shouldn’t either.
10. Simple gifts.
If you haven’t gathered already, this is some advice from a flight attendant and frequent flyer! If you’re coming up on a long haul flight, picking up shareable snacks or candy from duty free will go a LONG way with flight attendants. As in life, being friendly is almost always in your best interest. For instance, say a seat in business class has opened up, guess who’s most likely to be remembered and possibly offered that seat? Flight attendants are known to play favorites when it comes to perks they can offer - and you’d be surprised how far you can get with small gestures.