Why Flight Attendants Scrutinise You When You Board
Every time you set foot on a plane, a flight attendant is there waiting to greet you. But this is more than just a friendly welcome to get you to fly with the airline again. Attendants are trying to work out if you are going to help - or hinder - the smooth running of the flight. Yes, they are the ones who hand out your meals and pour you coffee, but they are also the ones who will act in an emergency - such as a first aid situation.
Many potential threats are eliminated as passengers board - and it's the flight attendants' job to spot them.
If you give them eye contact
Passengers who don't give eye contact may be feeling nervous about flying, or have some kind of emotional problem - according to Stephanie Mikel, Southwest Airlines. If such a problem is spotted early, attendants are better able to help.
If you're inebriated
Jay Robert of Fly Guy said “Intoxication and aggressive passengers are prime suspects we try to identify at the doors. We are trained in basic taekwondo techniques to handle acts of aggression in the sky, but stopping them before they get up there is our main goal.”
If you're fit
Flight attendants may be on the lookout for those who look particularly fit and able-bodied, in case they need help in the event of an emergency or an evacuation.
If you're chatty
Heather Poole of American Airlines says she notices when a passenger speaks to her and may be more inclined to request help from them - such as in the event of an emergency. Equally, she is likely to be extra helpful to that person as the flight progresses.
If you look sick
Claudia Sieweck of TUI fly says she looks for passengers who may be under the weather, since those who are too unwell to fly must be identified before take-off.
If you're pregnant
Attendants know women who have reached a certain stage of pregnancy are not permitted to fly. In the UK, a woman who is between 28 and 35 weeks pregnant must have a doctor's certificate to fly. As a result, attendants may be on the lookout for concealed bumps.
If you look nervous
Those who are afraid of flying may need special attention when up in the air.
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