In a context where tipping culture is increasingly changing, from a few small coins to suggested tips of 10-15% on bills at cafes, restaurants, and hotels, it is more difficult than ever for travelers to know exactly when they should and should not tip.

This ambiguity also extends to flights, specifically regarding flight attendants. But are tips expected at altitudes above 15.000 m?

"Tipping is never mandatory; it can even be prohibited by the policies of some airlines", a Southwest Airlines flight attendant shared.

Tipping culture is applied in restaurants and hotels. Photo: Adobe Stock

Some airlines encourage and even simplify tipping, although most airlines forbid it. "However, that does not mean we do not quietly accept them", an anonymous employee of a US airline said.

Airlines prohibit accepting tips based on the argument that "the primary duty of flight attendants is to ensure safety rather than provide service". Passengers boarding a plane only see flight attendants greeting them at the door, guiding them to their seats, and serving food and drinks. However, their true responsibility lies in ensuring flight safety for passengers.

"We do everything a bartender does. If a customer gives cash, I always accept it and put it in my pocket", the attendant added. However, he emphasized that tipping flight attendants does not mean you will receive preferential treatment, such as free drinks or an upgraded seat. This "under-the-table payment" rarely works, especially when the crew has to manage the needs of 200-300 other passengers in a small, crowded space.

Instead of tips, flight attendants hope to receive more smiles and thanks from passengers. "Kindness is enough", a retired United Airlines flight attendant said. In her career as a flight attendant, most passengers she encountered were pleasant. "But just one person who does not behave properly is enough to make our whole day terrible", she said.

Flight attendants appreciate passengers who are polite, tidy, and considerate of those around them, allowing attendants to focus on more important tasks without distraction.

One way to acknowledge excellent service from the airline and crew is for travelers to complete a post-landing survey. The customer service department will receive these thank-yous and evaluations. If an employee is specifically mentioned, the feedback will be forwarded to management. This directly impacts that employee's salary increase, bonuses, and even position.

"If passengers still want to give gifts, skip cash and choose gift cards", another flight attendant suggested.

"We frequently move through airports between flights, which means rushed meals and a lack of coffee", the male flight attendant continued.

While showing appreciation through tips or gifts may be a natural reflex, passengers do not need to feel pressured to do so differently. The primary duty of flight attendants is to ensure passenger safety. Therefore, travelers still have many ways to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts, rather than pulling out cash to tip.

Anh Minh (According to T&L)

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