Secrets From a Flight Attendant

Eat something!

Even if you’re not hungry. With air travel, you can never be certain when you’ll get your next meal. Just tell yourself that calories don’t count at the airport. And, yes, you can bring food through security. Don’t forget to share packaged snacks with the crew! We’re hungry too, and there could be more attention in it for you.

Bring a sweater — always

Airplanes are like movie theaters: They’re often freezing! And wear sneakers in case you need to move quickly through the airport. Flip-flops or heels will only slow you down. Remember, closed shoes have another benefit: That isn’t always water on the bathroom floor.

Make eye contact

Say “Hello,” “Please” and “Thank you” to your flight attendants. It’s shocking how many people don’t return my greeting, let alone my gaze, when I say “Good morning” or ask them what they’d like to eat or drink. Then they wonder why I’m not smiling when they ask for help. Passengers who are kind and courteous really stand out. Those are the ones who get the extra snacks, when we have them. Those are also the passengers I go above and beyond for. Want to make a flight attendant’s day? Say “I don’t know how you do it.” It’s nice being seen. Coffee-chain gift cards are nice too.

Let it go!

Traveling is like being on an episode of Survivor. You can’t control delays, mechanicals, cancellations, bad weather, your seatmate’s arm hair rubbing against you, the smell of tuna two rows behind you or a crying baby across the aisle. Getting stressed out about it will only ruin your trip. A phone app with soothing sounds might be good for uptight travelers. Or do what I do and create a playlist of calming music that will keep you grounded and happy.

Reminder: Most flight-crew members aren’t getting paid until the airplane door closes and the plane backs away from the gate. We’re paid for flying time only, which is why we dislike delays just as much as passengers do. At my airline, when a flight gets canceled, we don’t get paid for the trip, so don’t take your frustration out on the crew. We’re upset too. Try to remember: We’re all in the cramped flying metal tube together. And if you can reach your destination by car in less than five hours, drive!