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Galley Gossip: A question about tipping flight attendants
As a chronic over tipper in restaurants I've always been a bit confused when on a plane. While very occasionally an attendant will accept a tip, most often they move off before you can even try. Sometimes they outright won't accept a tip. I've been in union jobs where the union disallows tipping in order to get a higher wage. Is this the case? I tip at the very least a dollar a drink at a bar, and I figure an attendant deserves even more than that. What gives?
Cliff F.
Before I can address Cliff's question about tipping flight attendants, I have to say that I want you, Cliff, on one of my flights! Please let me know when you're traveling again and I'll trade onto the trip. Why? Because you sound nice. Because good passengers make good trips. Trust me, I'm not saying this because you're a big tipper, but because you understand the plight of the working class. As for your question about tipping on flights, flight attendants, at least the ones at my airline, are not supposed to accept tips. Why aren't we allowed to accept tips? I'm not sure - exactly. But my guess is it has something to do with the higher wage flight attendants make opposed to other service industry workers, like Cliff mentioned. Even though I do not accept tips (it's my job to serve you that drink!), that tip, the one I did not accept, is greatly appreciated. So thank you, Cliff, for thinking of me. And I'll be looking for you on my next flight.
Heather Poole
Filed under: Food and Drink, Airlines, Galley Gossip
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Jim Jul 19th 2008 2:08PM
I know some F/As who get their tips in hotel rooms after the flight
Bil Jul 19th 2008 11:52PM
I hear that!
Secret Asian Man Jul 19th 2008 6:16PM
Coincidentally, I've also been wondering recently about whether or not flight passengers can tip flight attendants and whether or not flight attendants can accept tips.
It kind of sucks that F/As can't accept tips but if they do, I wonder it could be done? Most tips are given after a service is rendered and you won't see them again for the same reason servers will not pick up your tip until you leave. Tipping is often done very discretely.
So, it'd be kind of awkward for others if you tip a F/A after she beings you a drink and you ask for other services later. Do you tip her again? Does she expect another tip? Would other passengers be annoyed or bothered by your gratuity?
If you wait till the plane lands and passengers are deplaning, you could tip the F/As who served you then. I suppose that would be the best time but only if you're the last to leave.
When and how would be an ideal time and method to tip F/As? Hypothetically speaking.
Sparkchaser Jul 19th 2008 9:37PM
I am an airline mechanic. I work very hard with little prase. Both passengers and flight crews think we are lazy and sleep all of the times. We put in very long hours and the hard work is very demanding. I have spent over 24 hours working on broken aircraft.
I was working a departing aircraft when one the flight attendant stopped me and asked if I was a mechanic. I was holding seat parts in full very at the time. When I was finished doing what was requested she didn't evey thank me for helping her with her job.
I have done this many times and nobody ever tipped me. I have prevent passanger from delay or prevent unsafe aircraft from departing. Nobody has ever thank me for my work. I have even been called names by flight crews. Ei Grease Monkey.
I will never tip a flight crew menber for doing there jobs and now we are being asked to do more with less. God forbid I find something that could cause a problem in flight and not have the parts to fix it or MEL it.
I am still can not believe the the greed of the Flight Crews. I have watched Flight Crew member hiding food from the Galley Carts. I know the food is not the greatest, but still it is for the passageners, and yes I am not mistaken by what I was watching. Now you want tips.
The last strike my airline had was because the Flight Crews wanted 10 and a half percent. There rase was more that my yearly pay.
I will always watch for your safety. So when you see a mechanic tripping in sweat or standing in a jetway to your aircraft understand that they have done there hardest to make your flight get off on time and safely. Thank them for there hard work. That is all the tip that we want.
Bob Jul 19th 2008 11:38PM
I have often pondered that same question, watched other passengers and did likewise but felt it wasn't enough at times.
AA provides its frequent fliers with Applause certificates to give service personnel as a way to gracefully acknowlege outstanding customer service.
The certicates allow the company to recognize employees that passengers appreciate while not rewarding those who go through the motions.
I have given Applause certificates to gate agents, baggage handlers and, most of all, flight attendants for service provided to me and to military service members flying on the same flight.
Airlines also appreciate comments regarding service, whether good or bad, to their customer service department via e-mail or snail-mail.
Bil Jul 20th 2008 12:00AM
I don't accept tips on the airplane but am grateful when they are offered. I've had people stuff their tips in my shirt pocket as they are getting off the airplane. Reminds me of the time I was serving snacks during a flight and a passenger put her hand inside my pants pockets. I reached in and pulled out a wad of trash! I put it back on her tray and said "I am not a trash can" and continued with my service.
Amy Jul 20th 2008 12:10PM
Heather:
I've often admired flight attendants ability to pack. Can you write an article on packing efficiently in small luggage? Whenever I go somewhere, it's big luggage that I lug around the airport, takes forever to pack, I get home and it sits on the floor of my closet for a week. Some tips on how the pros do it would be great!
Secret Asian Man Jul 20th 2008 2:21PM
I'm guessing it has more to do with the fact that they don't pack as much rather than just packing efficiently.
Think about it, most F/A shifts are what, 12-16 hours or something? They probably do two to four trips a day on average, I'm guessing. So they don't have time to go sightseeing. Therefore there's no need to be packing a lot of luggage. I'd assume they probably pack one set of civilian clothes and one set of nightwear. That, plus an extra pair of street shoes and personal hygiene, and medicine is enough to fill that tiny little suitcase they stroll around.
That's just my guess as I'm not a F/A.
As for how to pack efficiently, it's a combination of packing the right stuff and how you pack it. For example, every piece of clothing I pack has to be able to be used in at least two outfits. So, what looks like two outfits can be mixed and matched and layered to be four, even five outfits if you're clever. That's possible if these clothes do not have clashing colors and patterns.
An added bonus if you utilize the outfit you're wearing on the plane. Mix and match those with what you packed and you got yourself a week's worth of street outfits.
If you're expecting varied weather like rain or cold, do not pack bulky clothing. Instead, wear your jacket and heavier shoes to the airport and take them off on the plane if you want to. That way, you'll save room in your luggage but still be prepared.
And if you do wear a jacket, don't be shy to use the pockets for little things you need like personal hygiene items or even extra pair of socks, pantyhose, and even underwear. That way, you'll have room for another pair of shoes in your luggage.
Personally, I don't bring my hygiene stuff. I just use the ones in the hotel or buy travel-sized one at Target or Wal*Mart. It makes going through security easier.
Back to packing efficiently, many people have different methods of maximizing volume space of their luggage. One method is using those travel Space Bags™. Pack your clothes in the bag and squeeze/vacuum the air out. It does reduce volume but it might wrinkle your clothes.
I like to lay all my clothes flat on the bed. Biggest items like pants and buttoned shirts on bottom, then t-shirts, shorts, briefs on top. Make sure they're all flat. Then roll up the whole thing like a fruit roll-up, folding in the sleeves. Somehow, this reduces volume a little bit but without wrinkling your clothes because there's minimal folding and crushing creases.
Do this per outfit. Don't try to do all your clothes in one big textile sushi.
Well, that's all I can think of for now.
KAY Jul 20th 2008 1:09PM
ON TIPS TO PACK! 1st. of all; get a bag which has exterior pockets that as you unpack at home; you can throw the laundry in the washer. I started out with BUM EQUIPTMENT! Then I found an Eddie Bauer one which even has a special compartment to put your shoes in at Target. It did cost $115.00+tax; but I really love it; and it also keeps you from packing too many clothes. ALSO CHECK IT! If more people checked their luggage; it would be a better world & safer flight! Not to mentions those wheelies which tend to abuse the aisle passengers by running over their feet; or leaning over the bag on their arm; or just plain bumping them! So, that is great that you are trying to be considerate! Keep it up. we need more people like you. As far as tipping the attendants! THIS IS A PERSONAL THING AND THE BUSY BODIES NEED TO QUIT WATCHING OTHER PEOPLE. If you manage yourself well, then leave the others alone! NUNZA! For God and Country! God Bless America & the Flight attendants & Pilots!
Heather Poole Jul 20th 2008 3:19PM
JIM - Man oh man, Jim, someone could use a few TIPS on how to treat women....can't help but wonder if your ex was a FA who left you heart broken and bitter?
BIL - is that a wad of trash in your pocket or are you happy to see me? LOL.
SECRET ASIAN MAN - It doesn't hurt to try...and even if the FA's refuse the tip, rest assured you made their day.
AMY - I do plan on doing a short post on packing. I spent ten days in Italy and went with just my flight bag and rollaboard. First, I must address the naked passenger. And a bottle of wine. And then Positano. And after Positano...perhaps packing. So check back.
PACKING - If you've got any packing tips, leave them here and I'll use them in the packing post. :)
Heather Poole
Joe Jul 20th 2008 8:19PM
I'm not aware of any airline that allows FAs to accept tips. I do know that positive evaluations are a big deal. While a few dollars here and there is nice a bump is salary is probably a lot more appreciated. I'm not sure what the policy on some airlines are but either they will randomly chose a passenger or you can request a form.
mark Jul 20th 2008 11:07PM
fa's are rude b+++++s, especially since 911, since they know they can have you federally indicted anytime they feel like (and I have firsthand knowledge that this post 911 fear mongering is about to change big time), f those stretch-mark witches
777flygal Jul 20th 2008 11:57PM
Well Mark, aren't you just the sweetest! You obviously have issues with women, and certainly don't like "rules". If you think F/A's are looking for opportunity to get passengers in trouble get a grip! We don't have the time or energy. We're understaffed, flying more hours without a break than ever before, and the icing on the cake is we get to deal with guys like you. Sounds like such a plum job, doesn't it??? Take a bus, will ya!
SWA Scott Jul 21st 2008 1:46PM
FA's don't have the power to indict anyone. However if you interfere with our duties, or become violent(This is federal law by the way) during a flight, we can have you detained by the authorities. If the case warrants it, the authorities can bring you up on charges, and then you'll face those charges in a court of law. This has nothing to do with 911. This was the case LONG before 911 happened.
Your posting style leaves a lot of doubt that you have much knowledge of anything, much less of security issues.
777flygal Jul 20th 2008 11:51PM
Well Mark aren't you just one of the sweetest people. How I'd love to have you on my flight. You've obiously encountered negativity and probably have issues with your mother.
As aptly put years ago, Flight Attendants are here to save your ass, not kiss it.
Amy Jul 21st 2008 2:47AM
Cool - thanks for the tips everyone on packing and Heather thanks for putting together an article on packing light! I ALWAYS check my luggage, but right now I'm that girl with the suitcase that weighs 49.5 pounds at home, and 52 pounds and a glare at the airport. I'm trying! I want to get it down to a reasonable level and whenever I see flight attendants with their little bags on these multiple leg trips I'm a bit jealous!
Cheers!
SWA Scott Jul 21st 2008 1:04PM
We were told in training to politely refuse the tip, but if the passenger insist, we should gratefully accept it. I usually gratefully accept it, after I say, "Are you sure?" but that's just me.
Luisa Jul 22nd 2008 9:10PM
Regarding the question about tips... maybe because we are non-union, maybe because we took a 19% paycut, or it could be the coctail shakers we use in the aisle, but in any case Delta FAs are allowed to take tips. Those who tip are definitely taken care of and checked on more frequently than the rest of the plane... guaranteed.
boomboxnation Jul 23rd 2008 3:02PM
Well...I'm certainly not going to start groping around in the pockets of my attendants. I know how not to get kicked off a plane. I've only been cut off once, and that was cause I was drinking gin before I got on the plane and prolly smelled WAY drunker than I actually was. How about this: I will pre-envelope a small gratuity and, if it can be done gracefully, just pass it off as I disembark? "I think I saw you drop this." Maybe use the little red and gold envelopes they use in China for giving the gift of money.
Keep an eye out, though I doubt I fly your airline. Domestically I am strictly Southwest (I'm a total sucker for their efficiency), Virgin America (love flying domestically out of SFO's International Terminal), United (for directs from SFO to AUS or SAT), and AA (cause that's where my credit card racks up FF miles). I would actually never fly the last two if I didn't absolutely HAVE to. Nothing against the staff, but like I said, I'm a sucker for efficiency, and all the old school airlines are anything but efficient.
For international travel it's a coin toss, but what with the US dollar...well...not much international travel is currently on my horizon. Boo.
boomboxnation Jul 23rd 2008 3:23PM
And oh...in case you couldn't tell all...boomboxnation is Cliff F, and thanks for answering my question. I will remember Delta's policy, and I think I had actually already heard about Southwest's refuse-accept policy, but had forgotten. See you all soon in the sky.