Flight attendants share the 14 things they wish all passengers would start doing

It's not just in your head — airplanes are cold for a few reasons. 

So, Monserrat Andujar-Geacoman, a flight attendant for a domestic US airline, told Business Insider she advises passengers to always bring a sweater, hoodie, or blanket on flights.

It may be tempting to book flights with a short layover so you can save travel time, but Lorelei McAree, a flight attendant for a domestic US airline, said that may not be the best choice. 

"Weather, mechanical delays, and a whole host of other things can turn what would otherwise be a smooth and one-time operation crazy," she said. "It's not in anyone's control."

Her advice? Give yourself an added cushion of time so you don't miss a connecting flight.

It's always best to do your research before booking a ticket, McAree told BI, especially if you might require special assistance or specific accommodations.

"If you're traveling with a large family, for example, please purchase a ticket that guarantees you a seat assignment so nobody can split you up," she added.

Yes, flight attendants are there to make your flight comfortable — but their main focus is on safety, meaning they also need to follow the rules. 

"If there is turbulence or something that warrants us to stay seated, please be mindful that we have to discontinue service so that we can maintain the safety of ourselves, passengers, and the aircraft," McAree told BI. "We love helping customers, but we cannot do so if we are not safe."

McAree said bringing your own food and water on a flight can make it much better.

Water is especially key, as the high altitudes can lead to dehydration, and you may not be able to have your cup refilled as frequently as you'd like. 

McAree also told BI that snacks are just as important — especially if you have any dietary restrictions.

"Bringing food that caters to your needs ensures there will be no issue of not having any snacks that fulfill those needs available in flight," she added.

You may have heard it several times before, but it is important to pay attention to the safety demonstration before takeoff.

"Again, flight attendants are there for safety," McAree said. "Safety demos take no more than five minutes, and they will be helpful in an emergency situation."

McAree told BI that you should show your flight attendants some respect by taking out your headphones when they are talking to you.

Lorrie Metrejean, a flight attendant for a domestic US airline, told BI that being ignored by passengers could be disheartening.

"I wish passengers would realize that my job is just as important as a pilot's job," she said. "Flight attendants are responsible for the safety of the entire aircraft. At the end of the day, we're there for when an emergency occurs — whether that be a medical issue or security issue or if there's something wrong with the plane and we'd have to evacuate the aircraft and get everyone off safely."

The takeaway? Be sure to thank your flight attendants as you're exiting the aircraft.

Make sure to greet your flight attendants as you board the plane, too.

"It does bother me when people don't respond when I greet them as they're coming aboard," Metrejean said. "I feel like if I can take the time to make them feel welcomed, then they would at least acknowledge that I'm there instead of ignoring me."

Andujar-Geacoman told BI that passengers should think of the aisle as flight attendants' office space.

"I would never dream of coming into your office, taking off my shoes, and leaving them out in plain sight so you could trip over them," Andujar-Geacoman said.

As a courtesy to your flight attendants, do your best to keep your belongings, knees, and elbows out of the way throughout the trip, not just during the beverage service.

Andujar-Geacoman said following the luggage will make boarding smoother and help your fellow passengers. 

"When you cross this line, it hurts someone else's chances of keeping their own carry-on with them," she said. "Mindfulness and courteousness go a long way when it comes to personal property."

Be mindful of the other passengers when you're using the restroom by trying to be as quick as possible. One way to speed things up is by not bringing your phone with you in the stall. 

"It's already gross that you're taking your phone in there, but there are also only two bathrooms on a 737 for 170 passengers, not including the bathrooms for first-class," Andujar-Geacoman said. "The line can get long, and turbulence is real."

Yes, this area can be a nice, spacious relief from your seat, but Andujar-Geacoman said it shouldn't be your full-time escape from your row.

"Being cordial and nice does not mean you should take a seat in our galley and make yourself at home," she said. "We know you're trying hard not to go back to your seat, especially on longer flights ... but we also like our space and privacy."

Andujar-Geacoman told BI that a small token of appreciation can go a long way, whether it's a small bag of chocolates or a kind note.

"This has to be the biggest, most wonderful compliment to us," she said. "Please do this more often. We'll be your biggest fans and be sure to spread the word to the crew by including your seat number for praises and high-fives."

Read More:

• 18 things flight attendants wish you would stop doing
• The 12 skin-care products that flight attendants swear by for long trips
• The best ways to fight jet lag, according to flight attendants

• This story was originally published on January 7, 2020, and most recently updated on August 23, 2024.