Behaviors to Avoid as a Passenger: How to Show Consideration to Flight Crew
As a passenger, it's essential to understand and respect the efforts of the flight crew to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Unfortunately, some passenger behaviors can be frustrating for the flight crew, leading to delays and safety concerns. This article will discuss common annoying behaviors and offer tips for being a more considerate passenger.
Common Annoying Behaviors of Passengers
1. Crowding the Boarding Area Before It Starts: One of the biggest headaches for the flight crew is dealing with passengers who arrive early and crowd the boarding area. This not only creates a safety hazard but also delays the boarding process. The crew must maintain order and ensure that the plane is boarded in a safe and organized manner. This is particularly troublesome for first-class passengers; they should be aware of the importance of their presence during this critical safety check.
2. Storing Personal Items in the Crew Cabinets: Crew storage cabinets are not for passenger use. When passengers ask the flight crew to store their belongings, it can create additional work and distraction for the crew, taking away from their ability to focus on safety and service. If you need to store anything, ensure you have a designated area or ask the crew politely with clear instructions.
3. Yelling "Customer Service": Many passengers mistakenly believe that flight attendants provide customer service. However, the aviation industry uses a different terminology: "Customer Assistance." Flight attendants are there to assist with any needs related to the flight, not to provide customer service as you might expect in a retail environment. Misunderstandings like this can lead to frustration and delays.
4. Arriving Too Close to Departure: Arriving less than 15 minutes before the cut-off time can be dangerous and stressful for the flight crew. If your check-in or boarding process takes longer than expected, this could mean missing your flight or causing a missed connection. It's best to arrive at least 90 minutes before boarding to ensure a smooth process.
5. Boarding During the Check-In Process: Some passengers try to rush to the gate and board during the check-in process. This is a significant disruption, as it can cause delays and even result in missed flights. To avoid holding up the boarding process and other passengers, ensure you have checked in and are at the gate 30 minutes before boarding.
6. Asking Questions During Boarding: Waiting quietly and politely during boarding is crucial. Asking questions immediately after the gate agent arrives can disrupt the boarding process. Wait for a suitable moment, such as after the announcements are made, and still, keep the volume low to avoid interfering with the safety briefing.
7. Not Arriving at the Gate Timely: Late passengers can be a significant issue. Not showing up at the gate well in advance can cause stress for the flight crew and other passengers waiting to board. Always ensure you are at the gate at least 90 minutes before your flight time, especially for international flights.
My Personal Pet Peeves: Late Passengers
The most frustrating, in my opinion, are the late passengers. These individuals refuse to prioritize the overall safety and well-being of the flight over their individual needs. It's often the same passengers who start asking questions during boarding, adding to the delay and stress for everyone.
Additional Tips for Being a Considerate Passenger
1. Avoid Walking Around During Service: Limit your movement during the catering service to prevent causing a disturbance. If a flight attendant needs you to stow any items, put your seat in the upright position, or turn off your electronic devices, do it promptly and without complaint.
2. Follow Instructions Promptly: When a flight attendant asks you to stow your tray table, put your seat in the upright position, or turn off your electronic devices, respond promptly and do so without complaint. Never pull on their clothing to get their attention, and always say please and thank you.
3. Avoid Asking to Upgrade: Flight attendants cannot upgrade passengers, so asking for an upgrade is not a reasonable request. Respect their limitations and focus on being a good and considerate passenger.
4. Dress Appropriately and Hygienically: Dress comfortably, but make sure you are clean and neat. Avoid bare feet, pajamas, or overly revealing clothing. Maintain personal hygiene by showering and applying deodorant before the flight. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes that might bother others on the flight.
Conclusion
Remember, your cooperation and consideration can significantly impact the experience of everyone on board. By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and pleasant journey for all passengers and the dedicated flight crew. Thank you for being a considerate passenger!