What to Avoid Saying to an Airplane Pilot Before and After the Flight—Essential Do’s and Don’ts

The key to maintaining a safe and smooth flight experience is to ensure that the pilot, who is responsible for the aircraft's operation, remains undistracted and focused on their critical duties. Here are some phrases and interactions you should avoid having with the pilot.

Before the Flight

During the pre-flight period, the pilot is engaged in a series of safety and operational checks. Disturbing them at this stage can lead to potential dangers. Avoid the following:

Avoid asking about planned changes to the schedule

Statements such as "Scheduling called…" or "Your schedule has been updated" may cause unintended changes or even negative impacts on the flight plan. Pilots need to focus on pre-flight preparations to ensure safety, and these kinds of adjustments can disrupt their concentration. For example:

"Scheduling called... they want to move us to another gate. This is just frustrating and shows a lack of respect for the pilot's time and effort in preparation."

Stay clear of questions about a pilot's availability or preferences

Inquiries such as "When are you available?" or "What would you like for duty-free refreshments?" can steer the pilot's focus away from essential pre-flight checks. A pilot's primary responsibility is to the aircraft and passengers, not personal preferences or external factors.

After the Flight

Post-flight interactions need to be handled with similar care to ensure the pilot can decompress and reflect constructively on the flight. Avoid the following:

Avoid complaints or criticism

Debating or voicing concerns about the flight in the pilot's presence can lead to adverse reactions and hinder their ability to process the experience. For instance, saying "The flight to [destination] was so delayed. It’s a disaster" can make the pilot feel pressured and less inclined to discuss the positive aspects of the flight.

Avoid insisting on immediate feedback or discussions

Pilots often need time to decompress after a flight, process the events, and review their performance. Intruding on this time can be frustrating. Telling them, "Can we talk about the flight now?" can make them feel rushed, especially if they have other duties or a briefing to prepare.

Essential Do’s for Pilot Interactions

While it’s important to avoid certain interactions, there are positive ways to engage with the pilot that can enhance the flight experience for everyone. These include:

Complimenting their professionalism and competence

Saying, "Your flying skills are amazing, thank you for keeping us safe," can boost the pilot's morale and create a positive environment. Acknowledging and appreciating their efforts can make the flight smoother and safer.

Showing gratitude for accommodating last-minute requests

Saying, "Thank you for accommodating the last-minute change in my schedule. It’s greatly appreciated," can foster a collaborative and respectful relationship. Pilots value respect and understanding, which can lead to a more pleasant and focused interaction.

Conclusion

Respecting the role and responsibilities of the pilot is crucial for a safe and enjoyable flight experience. By steering clear of negative and distracting interactions, you can contribute to a professional and safe environment. Remember, the pilot's focus should remain on the safety and comfort of all passengers, so let them do their job to the best of their abilities without interference.