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In-Air Gripes: Who’s Your Worst Fellow Traveler?

Recently, a woman flying Southwest from Los Angeles to Houston started painting her nails. Knowing the smell is sharp, she asked passenger around her if it was OK. All agreed, but not the flight attendant. There was a ruckus and the nail-painter was arrested when the flight landed.

Even if she didn’t offend anyone in-flight, there are others who do. We asked frequent flyers who are the worst five of the worst, and these were the results.

1. Seat back pusher: The inconsiderate person in front of you who suddenly tips the seat into your tender knees or loaded lunch tray.

2. Crying kid: Overtired and overwrought, the little angel in the seat next to you screams during the entire flight. Of course, the diaper doo just adds to your misery.

3. The 300-pounder: When this enormous anatomy plops down next to you and overflows into your seat, you know you’re in for a bumpy flight.

4. The great unwashed: Your seatmate is in obvious need of a bath and mouthwash, and the fragrance drifts over to your unwilling nostrils. Inevitably, the clothing and breath smells are enhanced because this is also a heavily addicted smoker.

5. The yakking seatmate: You settle down in your squeezed space to catch a few winks, listen to music or do some iPadding. The passenger next to you needs to hear your entire family and career history. Then, you’ll be obligated to listen to that person’s long, boring tale.

If you’re a frequent flyer, we’re sure you also have your own list of the worst of the worst passengers. Of course, you’re not one of them!

When Is It OK To Tip A Flight Attendant? PDF Print E-mail


Q: In my many decades of airline travel, most attendants have been considerate to me. However, now that I’m elderly, some have been extra understanding and very helpful. When that happens, should I offer a cash tip? MRMcK, Chicago IL

A: Most airlines officially forbid employees from taking tips. A few, such as Southwest, allow them to accept gratuities if the passenger insists. However, today’s average flight attendant’s annual salary is $60,000, plus many added benefits including free personal flights, dining and resort hotel stays. Do they need tips to supplement their income?

The travel4seniors.com answer: It’s your decision to tip when you believe the attendant went beyond the usual duties for your personal comfort and safety. Another way to reward the attendant is to send an email note to the airline identifying the employee by name with a favorable description of the extra services provided for you.

 
 
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