'I'm a flight attendant and these are the most rude habits passengers have'

26 June 2023 , 21:56

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A flight attendant draws the line at physical contact from passengers (Image: Getty Images)

A flight attendant recently revealed some major no-nos that passengers should avoid when trying to get their attention during a flight.

While there are various methods passengers use, such as clicking, whistling, and even making kissing noises, physical contact is absolutely off-limits.

The attendant, who chose to remain anonymous, shared on the Sun's travel blog that they have been prodded, poked, and even pinched before by grabby fliers.

They emphasized that there are plenty of other ways to get their attention while walking through the aisle but crossing the boundary of physical contact is something they strongly dislike and advise against.

Gentle shoulder taps are acceptable, but only in very rare instances (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The attendant mentioned that in rare cases, a gentle tap on the shoulder may be acceptable, but beyond that, it is incredibly rude and obnoxious.

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However, the flight attendant added that they are generally happy to respond to most other methods of getting their attention, as long as they are not overtly rude or demeaning.

They acknowledged that not everyone speaks the same language and people may have their own unique ways of trying to grab their attention. As long as it's done respectfully, they are willing to help.

Flight attendants prefer not to be prodded, poked, or pinched by passengers (Getty Images)

On the other hand, the flight attendant emphasized the importance of the call bell.

They revealed the in-flight mantra of "coke or stroke," highlighting that when someone rings the button, it could be either a medical emergency or simply a request for a soda.

Due to the various possibilities, the flight attendant would prefer passengers to only use the call bell for genuinely important matters, as they might be occupied with other crucial tasks elsewhere on the aircraft.

Attendants are happy to respond to most ways of getting their attention (Getty Images)

While excellent service is expected, the attendant suggested that passengers should find better ways to get their attention, such as getting up from their seats and approaching them directly, rather than relying on the call bell.

They reasoned that this would prevent unnecessary rushes to the aisle, where they might mistake a simple request for a medical emergency.

Children, however, seem to have a knack for pushing the attendants' buttons—literally.

Flight attendants would rather passengers approach them directly than use the call bell (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The call bell becomes particularly bothersome when young children continuously ring it.

The attendant revealed that they have the ability to deactivate a child's call bell, allowing them to press it without disturbing the attendant and the service.

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They assured passengers that there are other call bells throughout the aircraft if they urgently require assistance.

Vassia Barba