FAQs About Interacting with Flight Attendants
What annoys flight attendants the most?
While specific phrases can be irritating, the underlying attitudes are what truly annoy cabin crew. The biggest sources of frustration are ignoring safety instructions, showing disrespect for their profession, and acting with a sense of entitlement. A passenger who puts their feet on the bulkhead, leaves a mess in the lavatory, or complains loudly about things beyond the crew’s control is far more bothersome than someone who simply asks a clumsy question. The core issue is a lack of awareness that they are in a shared, rule-bound space where safety is the top priority.
Is it okay to give flight attendants a gift?
A small, thoughtful gift is often a very welcome gesture, though it is never expected. Crew members frequently mention appreciating things like a box of sealed chocolates, a bag of good coffee, or a gift card to a coffee shop. These are easy to share among the crew. Avoid anything homemade due to safety policies, and never give cash. Honestly, the best gift you can give is your cooperation, a sincere smile, and a “thank you” as you deplane. Acknowledging their hard work verbally costs nothing and means a lot.
How can I get special treatment or an upgrade from a flight attendant?
It’s important to manage expectations here. Flight attendants have very little power to grant upgrades. Seating assignments and upgrades are almost exclusively handled by the gate agents before the aircraft door closes. The myth of getting upgraded to first class for being nice is largely just that—a myth. The “special treatment” you can realistically earn through kindness and respect is more subtle. It might be an extra snack, a free drink, or simply a warmer, more attentive level of service. Being a pleasant, low-maintenance passenger makes their job easier, and that goodwill is often returned in small but meaningful ways.
