Complaining about air travel is often a hot topic amongst the masses. The cramped spaces, the overpriced airport food and drinks, the shared fear of sudden death when there's turbulence. Whether you're complaining with the stranger sitting next you, or your friend Sara on social media, you can be sure there are people who agree with your opinions on traveling.
However, although the traveling itself is a hassle, have we ever thought about how our behavior as travelers effects the flight attendants or captains? Here are some behaviors that most air-traveling staff would rather do without when it comes to passengers.
1. Ordering Hot Drinks on a Short Flight
One anonymous flight attendant with several years of experience in the industry says that, "I hate when passengers order hot tea or hot chocolate on a flight less than an hour. Flight attendants must wait about 15 minutes to start service, and must take away all drinks and service items about 15 minutes prior to landing.
That leaves 30 minutes to set up an serve over 100 people, assuming we don't have to sit longer for turbulence. Waiting for that hot water spigot to slowly pour your hot water seems like an eternity. And that drink that takes three times as long to make will not even be cool enough to drink before it has to be collected for landing. It is often returned full."
2. Taking Their Shoes Off
Yes, it's true that passengers need to take their shoes off during security screenings, but that doesn't mean that your feet should be exposed once you're in the air. If you do decide to take your shoes off, make sure you at least put your socks on before you head to the bathroom.
One flight attendant says, "Just a tip: That water on the floor is not water. The lavatory is not thoroughly disinfected throughout the day. That's gross."
3. Treating Flight Attendants Like Servants
Although this sounds like a normal request, this still needs to be repeated for some people in the back. When a flight attendant says "Hello," you should probably return the greeting. Oh, and when your flight team gives you a safety briefing, pay attention.
"Most people who sit in the exit row do it intentionally, because they are frequent flyers and know that is where they can get extra legroom." A Flight attendant named Tammy, says.
"They know flight attendants are required to brief them on every flight. Don't act like the rules don't apply to you because you've done it before. It takes a few seconds out of your day to do what you're supposed to do."