Flight Attendants' Secret Phrase for Dealing with Rude Passengers – You Won't Believe What It Is!
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Navigating the skies as a flight attendant is no easy feat. It's a job that requires grace under pressure, a friendly demeanor, and a toolkit of strategies for dealing with the myriad of personalities that board each flight. For those of us over 60, we've seen our fair share of changes in the way air travel is conducted, and we know that patience and understanding can go a long way. But what happens when you're on the receiving end of rudeness at 30,000 feet?
Faye Lane, a seasoned flight attendant with nearly a quarter-century of experience, has a simple yet effective method for handling passengers who might be less than courteous. Her approach? Empathy. On the PBS podcast The Pulse, Faye shared her go-to phrase for diffusing tension: 'Oh my gosh, I know, right? It's so frustrating. It's so annoying. Oh, I wish I could fix it!' By validating the passenger's feelings, she often finds that they calm down and the situation improves.
This tactic is a reminder of the power of empathy, something that we, as seniors, understand deeply. It's about connecting with others and acknowledging their feelings, even if we can't change the circumstances. Faye's approach is a testament to the human touch in an increasingly automated world.
However, it's important to note that flight attendants like Faye are limited in what they can do. They can't reverse a cancelled flight or speed up a delay, but they can offer a listening ear and a kind word. Faye has navigated through all sorts of challenges, from medical emergencies to extended delays on the tarmac without food or facilities. Yet, she recounts that even after such ordeals, passengers have shown their gratitude with hugs and thanks.
But let's not forget that not all passengers respond to empathy. As Faye points out, 'Most people are wonderful, but when you put them in an aluminium tube in the sky, under very stressful and infantilising conditions, people can behave very, very badly – and often do.' It's a reminder that the environment of air travel can sometimes bring out the worst in people.
In a related note, another flight attendant recently advised against the common practice of queuing for the plane's bathroom. They suggested that staying seated actually leads to a quicker bathroom visit, as lining up only exacerbates the wait time for everyone.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, next time you're flying and witness a tense situation, remember the power of empathy. And if you're the one feeling the pressure, try to stay patient; your turn for the bathroom will come, and the flight will eventually reach its destination. It's all about the journey, after all.
We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Have you encountered a particularly empathetic flight attendant? Or perhaps you have your own tips for dealing with stress while traveling? Share your stories in the comments below and let's discuss the highs and lows of air travel together.
Faye Lane, a seasoned flight attendant with nearly a quarter-century of experience, has a simple yet effective method for handling passengers who might be less than courteous. Her approach? Empathy. On the PBS podcast The Pulse, Faye shared her go-to phrase for diffusing tension: 'Oh my gosh, I know, right? It's so frustrating. It's so annoying. Oh, I wish I could fix it!' By validating the passenger's feelings, she often finds that they calm down and the situation improves.
This tactic is a reminder of the power of empathy, something that we, as seniors, understand deeply. It's about connecting with others and acknowledging their feelings, even if we can't change the circumstances. Faye's approach is a testament to the human touch in an increasingly automated world.
A flight attendant has shared the simple approach she takes when it comes to rude or stressed passengers. Credit: Kenny Eliason / Unsplash
However, it's important to note that flight attendants like Faye are limited in what they can do. They can't reverse a cancelled flight or speed up a delay, but they can offer a listening ear and a kind word. Faye has navigated through all sorts of challenges, from medical emergencies to extended delays on the tarmac without food or facilities. Yet, she recounts that even after such ordeals, passengers have shown their gratitude with hugs and thanks.
But let's not forget that not all passengers respond to empathy. As Faye points out, 'Most people are wonderful, but when you put them in an aluminium tube in the sky, under very stressful and infantilising conditions, people can behave very, very badly – and often do.' It's a reminder that the environment of air travel can sometimes bring out the worst in people.
In a related note, another flight attendant recently advised against the common practice of queuing for the plane's bathroom. They suggested that staying seated actually leads to a quicker bathroom visit, as lining up only exacerbates the wait time for everyone.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, next time you're flying and witness a tense situation, remember the power of empathy. And if you're the one feeling the pressure, try to stay patient; your turn for the bathroom will come, and the flight will eventually reach its destination. It's all about the journey, after all.
We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Have you encountered a particularly empathetic flight attendant? Or perhaps you have your own tips for dealing with stress while traveling? Share your stories in the comments below and let's discuss the highs and lows of air travel together.
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