We recently flew Virgin Atlantic from JFK to London, and had an unusual and somewhat humorous problem. Because of advanced age and gradual loss of hearing, we often carry small, portable amplifier buds for our ears.

However on this overnight flight, the devices weren’t on when a flight attendant approached our seat. The lights were low and most other passengers were asleep. She leaned over and whispered something we couldn’t hear. In a loud voice, we responded with, “What did you say?”

Of course, it awakened everyone nearby, who shot dirty looks our way. She gave us a frown and said in a normal voice, “Virgin is training us in proper whispering. Would you like a cup of tea?”

Later we found out Virgin has hired voice coaches who instruct crew members on how to whisper when cabins are dark and passengers asleep.