Flight Attendant Insider: Airline Food Secrets, Passenger Pet Peeves, and Seat Upgrade Realities

We interviewed a seasoned flight attendant from a major airline to uncover the realities of cabin crew life—from common passenger annoyances to the perks of global commuting.

What does it take to become a flight attendant?

Few people expect to accept significant pay cuts, relocate to a new city, stay on call, and be away from home for long stretches just to work in aviation. Yet, when positions open at major airlines, applications flood in—up to 50,000, by some accounts. Only about 1,200 candidates are selected for initial training.

Training requirements vary by airline but must meet Federal Aviation Administration standards and company protocols. This includes learning to arm and disarm emergency doors for slide deployment, handling medical and emergency scenarios, and completing annual certifications to maintain qualifications.

What do you like most about your job? What do you like least?

The people—both coworkers and passengers. Flight attendants form lifelong friendships and meet fascinating individuals in airports, on planes, and during layovers. Romance and new connections happen frequently at work. That's the magic: you never know who you'll meet.

Conversely, airplanes reveal peak selfishness. Passengers out of their element may act rudely—ignoring greetings, demanding service without courtesy, or blaming delays on crew. Not all attendants are perfect either, but empathy helps: consider what everyone endured to board. Travel can be stressful.

What are people surprised to learn about your job?

The lifestyle flexibility. Many commute from other states or countries to their routes. Local crew might pick routes allowing school drop-offs and home for dinner. It suits diverse lifestyles, but it's a true commitment.

What sort of travel benefits do you get?

Most airlines offer free travel for employees, minus international taxes. Early on, I jetted off on days off constantly, but now, with roots in my city—friends, classes, hobbies, volunteering—extra flights lose appeal. Some colleagues still travel relentlessly.

Do flight attendants eat the airline food?

Some do, some don't. I gained 20 pounds snacking on first-class meals during international flights but now pack my own food 90% of the time to avoid it.

What’s the best way to annoy a flight attendant?

Answers vary, but top irritants include expecting specialized meals (gluten-free, etc.) at 30,000 feet, then getting upset when unavailable, or using the call button from an aisle seat for trash pickup.

Pro tips: Bring an empty bottle to fill post-security for water, and pack kid snacks.

What are some difficult passenger situations you’ve faced?

Alcohol often fuels chaos. One inebriated man demanded a kiss for more drinks. Another started a fight post-landing after denied service. A woman downed half a duty-free gin bottle en route to the UK and needed carrying off.

What flexibility do you have as far as giving out free drinks and seat upgrades?

Limited drink flexibility due to inventory matching sales upon landing. Upgrades are agent-handled, based on miles, status, and data inaccessible to crew.

What’s the best way to get on a flight attendant’s good side?

Common courtesy. We start flights with smiles and positivity—reciprocate for the win.