Cabin crew, often looking after over a hundred passengers per flight, don’t always have the easiest job, especially when dealing with less than ideal guests. Former flight attendant and consumer commentator Jane Hawkes has revealed her insider advice for airline passengers aimed at reducing the workload of cabin crew.
Jane suggests that travellers can optimise food delivery by timing their toilet visits accordingly. She advised Express.co.uk: “Try to avoid going to the toilet when the trolleys are moving through the cabin, unless there are free aisle seats that you can get in and out of quickly.”
Jet2, EasyJet or Ryanair crew do their best, but people often get stuck behind a food trolley when trying to get to the toilet. It would be disruptive for crew members to maneuver around a blocked passenger, reports the Express.
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On larger aircraft, in urgent cases when holding on is not an option, passengers must wait near the toilets until the service cart has moved on.
When it comes to reclining seats, the question of whether or not to recline remains a contentious issue among air travelers. While some consider a reclined seat necessary for sleeping, others advocate remaining upright for the entire journey.
Jane recommends: “Politely ask the passengers on your back if they can recline their seat to avoid arguments that have to be resolved by cabin crew.”
It goes without saying that the seats remain in their upright position during meals and when the aircraft is climbing and descending.
Regarding the stowage of hand luggage, Jane did not provide any specific instructions in the extract provided.
Jane advised: “Stow your luggage as instructed – place bags under the seat in front of you (except at emergency exits) or in overhead bins.”
“It takes less time than the cabin crew needs to do the important checks before departure and before landing. For larger pieces of luggage, if you can’t carry or lift them, don’t bring them with you.”
Passengers should be aware that cabin crew are not permitted to assist with stowing luggage in the overhead bins and passengers must therefore take care of their own luggage.
In a nice gesture, Jane suggests bringing cookies and chocolates to the crew, as they may have several flights that day.
This is a nice way to show your gratitude to the flight attendant and give him a nice break from his busy day.
