If you’ve ever wondered how to be a better passenger on a flight, you’re not alone. Many of us try to be polite and helpful, but some of our well-meaning habits might actually annoy the crew more than we realize.
I came across a great article by Brenda Chuinkam that offers practical advice straight from flight attendants themselves. It starts with five simple tips that can make your next flight smoother for everyone.
1. Pack Light and Lift It Yourself
If your carry-on is too heavy for you to lift into the overhead bin, consider checking it. Flight attendants are not required to lift bags and doing so can lead to injury.
2. Bring Water Before Boarding
Grab a bottle of water at the gate or bring one from home. Asking for drinks during boarding slows down the process and adds stress to the crew’s routine.
3. Use the Call Button Sparingly
Only press the call button when you truly need assistance. Personally, I’m terrified of accidentally hitting the call button by accident. Flight attendants have a schedule and will come around with snacks and drinks.
4. Handle Trash Responsibly
Hold onto your trash until it’s collected. If it’s messy or unsanitary, like used tissues or diapers, bag it up before handing it over. Don’t hide it in the seat pocket!
5. Time Your Bathroom Breaks
Avoid using the lavatory during boarding, meal service, or right before takeoff and landing. These are busy times and using the bathroom then can disrupt operations.
These tips are easy to follow and show respect for the crew and fellow passengers. But what about the things you think are polite that might actually be irritating?
The article also dives into 12 habits that flight attendants secretly dislike. Some of them might surprise you, like touching a flight attendant to get their attention or trying to rearrange overhead bins. If you want to know what not to do on your next flight, this list is must-read.
You can check out the full article here:
12 Habits Flight Attendants Secretly Hate