Flying may be a stressful experience for many, but it’s important to remember the dedication and professionalism of flight attendants who ensure your journey is safe and comfortable. These crew members are tasked with much more than serving drinks and snacks; they are trained safety professionals responsible for handling any emergencies that may arise. Despite their patience, passengers often unknowingly test their limits. Here are 10 behaviors that might be rubbing your flight attendants the wrong way and how to avoid them.
1. Touching a Crew Member Without Their Consent
“Do not touch us. Stop touching us. Don’t poke me or tap me or wiggle your fingers on my arm. I have a name tag. ‘Ma’am’ and ‘excuse me’ also work really well,” one flight attendant shared. Physical contact may seem like a quick way to get attention, but it’s invasive and unprofessional. Respect their personal space and use polite verbal cues instead. A simple “excuse me” goes a long way in maintaining mutual respect.
2. Asking for Water Immediately Upon Boarding
“Why didn’t you take the pill while waiting in the gate area? There are ample water fountains and bottled water for sale in the airport,” one crew member noted. Boarding is one of the busiest times for the crew, as they are focused on ensuring everyone is seated and prepared for takeoff. Asking for water during this time can interrupt critical tasks. To avoid being a distraction, plan ahead by bringing your own water or hydrating before boarding.
3. Using the Bathroom at an Inopportune Time
“It’s hard to carry the tray as it is, let alone balance it over someone’s head while they try to squeeze in beside me,” one crew member said. Timing is everything when it comes to bathroom breaks on a flight. If you choose to use the restroom during food or beverage service, you may disrupt the flow of work and create unnecessary inconvenience for both the crew and fellow passengers. Plan your trips strategically to minimize disruption.
4. Pressing the Call Bell Excessively
“If we have just taken off and the seat belt sign is still on, we will be out [soon]. Just hang on for five minutes,” a crew member suggested. The call button is there for emergencies or urgent needs, but excessive use can quickly irritate the crew. Before pressing the button, consider whether your request can wait until the attendants are already nearby or less occupied. Thoughtful use of the call bell shows consideration for their workload.
5. Expecting Personalized Flight Connection Assistance
“We find out about the delay when passengers do, and we can’t control connections,” explained one attendant. While it’s natural to worry about missed connections, expecting flight attendants to have all the answers is unreasonable. They are not equipped with detailed schedules for every connecting flight. Instead, use airport resources or apps to track your connections and manage changes on your own.
6. Demanding Meals After Service Ends
“We have about 300 passengers here. Why not behave like everyone else?” a flight attendant explained. Once meal service is complete, the crew must focus on other tasks, including preparing for landing. If you miss a meal, it may not be possible for the attendants to accommodate you later. Following the service schedule ensures that everyone is treated fairly and avoids unnecessary delays.
7. Expecting Help with Oversized Bags
“A lot of [flight attendants] get torn rotator cuffs and other issues from repeated heavy lifting,” one shared. If you’re unable to lift your carry-on bag into the overhead bin, it’s a sign that it may be too large or heavy to qualify as carry-on luggage. Instead of risking injury to the crew, consider checking your bag before boarding. This simple step can prevent delays and ensure safety for everyone.
8. Stretching in the Middle of the Aisle
“When I’m moving through the aisles doing my work, and a passenger is standing there, don’t act like I’m inconveniencing you when I ask to go past,” one attendant said. Stretching during a flight is important, especially on long-haul journeys, but the aisles are also a workspace for the crew. Find a designated area, such as near the restrooms or galley, where you can stretch without obstructing others.
9. Grooming on the Plane
“Clipping or filing finger and toenails is up there on the passenger annoyance list,” one attendant lamented. Personal grooming, particularly tasks like nail clipping or filing, can be disruptive and unhygienic in a confined space. Save grooming activities for private areas, such as the airport restroom, to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone on board.
10. Forgetting Basic Courtesy
“Not acknowledging us or looking us in the eye, not saying please and thank you — we are people, too,” a crew member reminded travelers. Simple gestures of politeness, such as saying thank you or making eye contact, can make a significant difference in the day of a flight attendant. These small acts of kindness show appreciation for their hard work and help foster a positive atmosphere during your journey.
Final Thoughts
“If you show me a little respect, I’ll be more than happy to go the extra mile for you,” said Andy from a major airline in an interview with Travel + Leisure. Flight attendants are the backbone of in-flight safety and comfort, often working under challenging conditions. Keeping these tips in mind can ensure a smoother and more pleasant journey for everyone involved. After all, a little consideration goes a long way at 36,000 feet.
Editor’s Note: Andy is identified by first name only to protect his privacy, as with every crew member quoted here.
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