Have we discovered another reason why the union representing American Airlines flight attendants demanded cutbacks in beverage and meal service onboard: so flight attendants can upgrade and fraternize with their significant others?
American Airlines Flight Attendant Upgrades Girlfriend, Spends The Flight Chatting With Her Instead Of Working
A reader, whom I trust, shared the following story with me:
On January 11th onboard American Airlines flight AA5597 from Washington (DCA) to Tallahassee (TLH) I was seated in a mostly empty domestic first class section. There were two male flight attendants servicing this leg.
Shortly after take off the taller of the two FAs approached the FA in the first class cabin and spoke to him. Immediately after they spoke, the taller FA waved a girl from the coach section to come up to first class. She seated herself at the window seat on the two seat side of the plane. Shortly thereafter (not long after beverage service was completed) the taller FA took the seat beside her.
I attempted to sleep on this 90-minute flight but soon found that impossible. The FA and this woman were looking at photos on their phones and carrying on hysterically for nearly the entire course of the flight. The FA neglected whatever duties he may have had to carry on with this woman until approximately 20 minutes before we landed.
What disturbed me most was the coach section was quite empty as well. If they wanted to engage in these activities why didn’t they go to the back of the plane? Instead the FA chose an area of the plane where people pay for a premium experience.
As I exited the airport I was wondering if I was making too much of this in my mind. But as I was leaving, the woman who was seated in front of this couple grabbed my arm and asked me if I was as upset as she was at their behavior. I thanked her for validating my feelings.
I will point out this is not the normal experience I have enjoyed from AA over the years. But there does appear to be a recent downward trend.
Pretty damning, isn’t it? Doesn’t matter how empty the flight was – there is no excuse for this behavior. The flight was operated by PSA Airlines, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines. While not mainline, this was still an “American Airlines” flight attendant.
I write about this not to denigrate the many hard working flight attendants at American Airlines or PSA. Rather, I share this story so that flight attendants like this are rooted out and held accountable.
To the flight attendant: American Airlines does not pay you to sit down in first class and chat with your girlfriend during the flight. Those onboard upgrades are also unauthorized. Did you think no one would notice?
To everyone: so many negative stories about American Airlines lately and most of them, it seems to me, are unforced errors. I am not anti-American Airlines: I generally enjoy flight American Airlines and think the carrier has great potential to improve in so many areas. I look forward to seeing what Robert Isom will do to put his mark on AA.
But one thing that must be done for consumer confidence to be restored: root out flight attendants like this. They have no business wearing an AA uniform.
CONCLUSION
An American Airlines / PSA flight attendant was observed upgrading his girlfriend to first class onboard, then proceeding to sit next to her and chat during the flight, disturbing other first class passengers and neglecting his (already meager) duty to passengers.
I trust that American Airlines will look into this incident and take corrective action. It is simply unacceptable.
image: PSA Airlines
I’ve said it many many times and I’ll say it again – American Airlines is a complete joke and a disaster of an airline!
I feel bad for anyone who has to fly American frequently!
Couldn’t agree more- wish the large airlines would be broken up to the US Air, Delta, NWA, American, Alaska, Southwest, Virgin Amer, United, AirTran, and Continental days, and make these disastrous quasi-governmental non-competitive disasters compete. No reason to be a great airline when upon any major loss big Uncle Sam writes a blank check and then those who payed for the check get treated with disdain by horrendous FAs.
This Flight Attendant behavior was compleatly out of order. I am a former International Purser for American Airlines. I absolutely would not have put up with his behavior. He is being payed for the safety and comfort of his passengers. He is on board to serve them. Not him. Apparently he has forgotten this?
The plane was empty. Author was just angry that the attendant sat his friend to first class. I can’t stand people who can afford 1st class resents someone getting an upgrade. I believe the attendant should have upgraded everyone and filled the first class section. That would have made the author really freak out.
I agree with you 100% with the exception they could have been more considerate about the volume of their conversation.
BUT, it’s not allowed by the company.
Let’s be a little less dramatic. You can’t upgrade everyone in a plane to first class because obviously, weight Hass to be distributed on an airplane. There’s a lot of people that have more than others, there’s no reason to be in sound so resentful. If I paid $8000 for a first class flight, you damn right I’d be mad, not if someone is upgraded, but if that someone disturbed the peace that you obviously paid for.. And that’s the whole point here, if we all had a little bit more respect for one another, life would be great. SMH
Sounds to me like you have sour grapes yourself, seems to me like the real issue here was that they were disruptive and noisy the whole time. People who worked very hard to pay for that first-class Experience One consideration. That means not making noise the entire time. Consideration is a to 8th Street my friend
Seems to me people are missing the point on this…from my perspective anyway. Why do people jump to the conclusion that commenters are upset or jealous because someone got upgraded? Speaking as a person who generally flies AA economy, but who once in a while upgrades to first class to get a little more respite and room, I don’t care about who gets a free upgrade as it has nothing to do with me. I WOULD care though if someone was brought into First Class by a FA who then sat next to the person and proceeded to talk so loudly as to disturb me and other passengers.
Babies are one thing. That’s a part of life and you just have to deal with it. Even having people next to you talking loudly is annoying, as it’s really just rude and inconsiderate given you’re all in a confined area. People who don’t get that are usually the one who make all the noise. Lol Still, I try to tune it out, as I hate being “that guy” complaining about noise (plus, if things go the wrong way I might lose it ). But it’s a different situation entirely for me when the person making all the noise is the FA, who is supposed to be the person responsible for making the trip pleasant for everyone. It’s particularly bad, in my view, if the FA brings the noise to an area where people are paying a premium for comfort. If there is anyone who should be paying attention to that it’s the FA.
No issue with bringing the guest into FC, but if you’re going to make a lot of noise that disturbs others, stay in the bigger economy area away from other passengers. Otherwise, respect people and tone down the noise. If you’re an FA, you should know better. I say that recognizing that FAs have a hard time dealing with unruly or rude passengers. It’s a part of the job of an FA to be a part of the solution, not of the problem.
I agree with you also. The plane was close to empty. He probably didn’t have too many duties to perform on that flight. Aside from being too loud, I don’t think he did anything wrong. I wait tables. If we’re slow my coworkers and I will sit and talk.
A complaint to American airlines would have been sufficient, but you actually took the time to wrote and publish an entire article! And to further display that you are an
asshole, you are advocating for someone to lose their livelihood because you couldn’t take a nap! There is so much more to be said about your personality type, but you are not worth an entire thesis.
Live you life and stop worrying about evryone else life, if he would have paid for FC you would have come up with some lame excuse to make a negative coment. You know what sucks about FC . People like you that think the world revolves around you.
Agree. The author sounds more like a Karen, mad at the fact that someone he considers not to be his equal was sitting in the privileged FIRST CLASS section.
Your comment does not make sense. The author was already in first class. That’s why it’s important to read everything very carefully. The author stated that he was sitting in a empty domestic section in first class so why would he be jealous that the girlfriend got bumped up to first class? If that was you would you like someone interrupting your experience after you paid all your money? Especially if the flight attendant was literally sitting down with the girlfriend not doing his job. Let’s not say anything just to get 10 seconds of Fame on a blog.
I think the first class practice and attitude is a relic that should have gone down with the Titanic. Regarding the question at hand, neither the author nor the woman who validated him had the decency nor the common sense to use their ability for thought and speech to approach the people and diplomatically express their dissatisfaction. In doing so I feel they waived any right to complain and are merely passing along gossip aod smying dischord. I question if their issue was with the noise or the percfived assault on their ego that someone who didn’t pay as much as them recieved better treatment than they think they should have. Did he try to push the call button? Perhaps the attendants took a break because they didn’t think they were needed. If there had been rudeness in direct response to the author’s request for silence or assistance were ignored, this article may have been waranted. You are a human being, as are they. I suggest the author consider how he can improve how he views and interacts with other human beings rather than just complaining about things he could have tried to change.
Nope, I think you’re missing the point, and rather widely, too.
– The FA’s primary job is in-flight service. If he was sitting there chatting for much of the flight, then that duty to the rest of the paying passengers was neglected – they weren’t getting what they had paid for.
– People pay extra for first class for said service and yes, for the quiet. That’s the primary reason I save my extra nickels, dimes and shekels and pay extra to fly business/first, and I’m a mere public school teacher (as such, I”m hardly an elitist). I simply want a nice flying experience and I tend to get it in first class. The chatting and laughing interrupted that experience on the flight in question.
– There is a protocol for upgrading passengers. It appears that this protocol may not have been followed which would be a company rules violation. I personally have no issue with upgrades as long as they’re done BY THE RULES and FAIRLY. That may not have been the case here.
Typical “class envy” Marxist response.
FA stole from the airline & was dismissive of customers who paid more or earned it! plus he was not doing his J O B! not to mention his ignorance in being considerate to others w/his loud talking!
Then why don’t you hire this lackadaisic FA and put him on your payroll. Let’s see how that changes your rhetoric.
Sounds like you were prissy. He was not allowed to do what he did. Nor could he upgrade the whole cabin. Besides it was an rj class plane, 1st class is no better than coach really. 2 seats on 1 side and 1 seat on the other. No big deal.
This article is over the top. Key points: Flight was empty in both coach and First Class. The author stated he recieved his beverage and planned to sleep. Failed to mention what duties were neglected. Failed to mention what premium service the author was entitled but did not receive. Doesnt seem there was much to do if there were very few seated in the First Class section. If the FA and his girlfriend seem to be having a good time, sharing photos, but laughing or talking to loud why didn’t the author asked them to lower their voices so he could sleep. The FA would have honored the request immediately knowing the premium services they are entitled. I don’t believe a passenger sitting in the front of the FA and his girlfriend grabbed him by the arm and said, “Did you see that”? The author knew he was being petty and created a fictional person to validate his story. The author can do better!
Yes.. I really think Karen should have just kept this story to herself.. I just wasted 3 mins aid my life I’ll never get back
Upgrading everyone to first class would’ve been so much worse. I don’t know if you knew pilots have to get the airplaine’s weight and balance accounted on the airplanes computer so they can calculate take off and landing power/flaps and trims configs.
Couldn’t Agree more the author is just another pussies a jerk Mr so right I wonder how many dirty clothes he has on his closet? SOB
This is kind of snobby if you ask me. The flight attendant could have been quieter but in reality get over it. Put on the noise canceling headphones that they offer and watch a movie. Its not like they were drunk or something. Sounds like you’re very entitled and out of touch. It sounds so sweet that he offered that to his girlfriend. Go back to coach u lower class heathens where u can bother the underlings is kinda the attitude I get from you.
Don’t to many jobs you can get paid to visit with your girlfriend for an hour or so. He’s at work and being paid to work. Not saying you can’t visit with somebody for a little while, but you’re at work.
Dude, the way you think is absurd.
You sound like a teenager or, probably you are a relative of that AA flight attendant.
Guess you don’t know much about flying. The rules are not too ‘just upgrade because the plane is empty’.. If someone pays for an economy seat, that’s where they sit. You do not upgrade someone who paid $200 for a seat to sit next to someone who paid $1000 for a first class seat (and to be disturbing no less) unless the person had a legitimate upgrade. In this case, she did not.
The volume of the conversation would have been annoying no matter what – nonrevs, upgrades, or paid F. The moral of the story is to be respectful of your surroundings – especially if you’re already doing something questionable like a “friends and family” upgrade.
Like, remember those stories about people getting kicked off of friends and family passes for not being dressed up? Yeah, if you’re doing something like that, you’re going to be held to a higher standard. (Not exactly the same situation, but analogous)
Thank you, I bet if the shoe was on the other foot he wouldn’t bat an I. So what she got hooked up, don’t be mad because you had to pay for your seat. People just need to but out of others life, The only thing he has to really complain about is the noise and him not getting any sleep, but even then if it were a full flight and baby’s where on board it would be the same case
You wrote my thoughts.
A privileged person..no?
There also is something called weight and balance.
I agree with you. Although the fa could have been more considerate of others in his activities in first class, I think there needs to become more people who are upgraded when there is not a large amount of customers. These people with the viewpoint that they can pay for first class so they must be better than other people needs to come to an end. But it’s not going to until we as Americans make it happen.
I agree there i no need for this complaint the plan was empty and also lately the headaches that the flight attendant has do deal with lately with the fighting about wearing a mask and the Kens and Karen’s out the disrupting flights in the air fighting abusing and assaulting flight attendants, I say this this flight attendant and many others Earned the right to have a seat with a friend in flight especially that the flight was basically empty traveling with only a few numbers passengers on board, and plus it is okay by any airline to upgrade seats while in flight especially when the flight is basically empty,all a passenger has to do is ask the flight attendants if they can upgrade to any seat or change seat during onboard the flight .
You’re an idiot. The author WAS in 1st class, that’s the whole point. Go troll elsewhere lonely fat 60yr old white male living under a freeway bridge ina 1br 1bath tenement. You’re not helpful nor wanted. Shoo!
A lot of upset perennial Spirit passengers in this comment section trying to find fault with OP. We get it, you want a free upgrade too and you hate the folks that pay their way out of Cattle Class. FA still needs a write-up, and could’ve gone to the back with his girlfriend, which nobody seems to think is a valid option bc they’ll hurt his feelings. It’s always people that don’t want to pay the premium that take up for this kind of behavior…
George, you totally missed the moral of the story.
The gentleman who wrote the article was absolutely correct in pointing out that FA’s behavior whether there were 2 passengers or 200 the FA was paid for a service he did not do, the other attendant had to service the cabin his other FA probably was assigned to when he decided. He wd take a little time to date on AA’s dime. Shameful!!!!
I agree with you 100%. There are other things more important. And if they were too loud; how about asking politely to talk quieter.
Now there’s a mature response. Are you 16?
Selfish affermation. The fact is the first class pays for the comfort
By letting regular class occupy empty seat the comfort is no longer there
Anyway s. You look at it
Different set of behaviour take place
Or perhaps on your opinion that does’ nt matter?
Totally agree with you sounds like the author is just a tad jealous! I’m sure the attendent making almost min wage is worried about representing the uniform! Just another keyboard warrior trying to use their job to injure those who don’t kiss his ass!
I 100% agree. Before we get all itchy. flight attendants do sit for a good portion of the flight for safety. Often in empty seats. Was it overnight? It is rude to want the plane to be quiet so you can sleep. Now if it were a red eye flight I would get it. It is funny the first class flyer wants the poor to go to the back of the plane in their appropriate class. Wow, just wow. You don’t own the plane dude get a private jet if you can’t stand sharing. If people are being really loud just ask politely if they would mind lowering their voices. I would say the only issue is a flight attendent should know to keep their voice down but the attendents GF or wife is not obligated to she has the same right as you do to flying. It is one of the few good perks of being a flight attendant, having the option for family and friends to fly low cost and get free upgrades don’t be jelly man.
I agree I’ve been fortunate enough to fly first class for a few years now and have flown AA since 1974; flying average of 2-8 trips a year. In the ‘old’ days they did allow folks to change seats even watching out for me while I was traveling with a toddler in the 1980s. I won’t begrudge an attendant moving a family member up but for gods sake show some respect to the other passengers. I dread flying now and curtailed all domestic and international flights on American. Turkish Air is wonderful substitution.
This is not about upgrading his girlfriend, many FA and other Crew members often do this if there is availability.
I think the main problem here is the noise. If you want to chat with friends or family members do so at home not on the job. Imagine the pilot having his girlfriend on- board and decided to bring her to his side for chatting while piloting the plane, where is the safety.
This is common sense be ethical and responsible while on duty. I hate it when FA is rude or not considerate.
I agree, the writer of this article, Karen Klint, just seems like a bitter little brat. You flew American Airlines deal with the consequences. Life is too short to getting mad at someone for enjoying themselves. Maybe try asking them to be quiet, and confronting the situation instead of hiding behind a bunch of words on a page.
Shame on you for wanting someone fired. Disciplined yes, but fired no. That is the problem with this entitled and capitalist country and also the reason why we are burning from the inside out. We need to discipline and educate our youth, not burden them with poverty as punishment.
I was waiting for someone with this opinion. Nice! My question to the author is, “Would you feel differently had you been the one whose ticket was upgraded?”
This sounds like a very nosy person to me. I don’t support this kind of behaviors but then, this is outta pure jealousy.
Totally agree! Does it really matter if you can’t ‘nap’ on a 90 minutes flight???? Maybe just sit back and relax more in your personal life and you won’t need to wait until you are flying to get some (apparently much needed) rest…. Sweet dreams and hope you’ll enjoy your next nap sesh on another flight….
Perhaps things could have been calmly dealt with by asking the other FA to talk with his cohort to lower the conversation level so as not to disturb the paying customers. This FA could also pass on that passengers were very upset and seated FA should get back to his job.
The author was sitting in first class, stupid! That’s one of the reasons why he was complaining. His and other first class customers’ experiences were rudely interrupted. Please understand what you’ve read, before making a stupid reply.
Lol, I don’t have a problem with his girlfriend being upgraded. Hey the low pay (as a former airline worker) is accepted because we know we get great flight benefits. If the seat was empty, then that lady should have minded her own business. That’s where I stop on agreement. The flight attendant was on the clock, should have sat down on his break, or after all duties were finished. If the flight was practically empty and one flight attendant could handle it all well, I guess it’s ok so long as nobody went without being provided the services they would have received has he not sat down. The place where I sympathize with the woman is being super loud in first class. A lot of people do want to rest and not be bothered by loud laughing for pretty much the whole leg of the flight. I would think this would come off as pretty unprofessional for sure, but flying standards from when I worked in the industry over 20 years ago and what they are today are two completely different stories. I consider myself lucky if we get thru TSA without feeling groped and safely there on the plane without someone getting attacked and having to sit on the tarmac until the police board the flight to remove the perpetrator. By the way there is no excuse for attacking a flight attendant or any flight crew. They need to start barring people for life when they take it spin themselves to hit people because they can’t control themselves and use their language skills to convey or handle a situation. Things are definitely getting out of hand.
First of all, PSA is PSA weather it’s owned by Anerican or not they run their own show and is completely different, secondly dca-Tallahassee first class is definitely not 8k first class , lastly that’s your gripe? He upgraded someone one an got them free drinks? And you could sleep for 90 minutes tell me you’re a Karen without telling me you’re a karen vibe….
Another Karen in the air !!!
First of all, as a former AA flight attendant, we are not allowed to upgrade anyone, especially our personal friends to F/C. And him just sitting on his butt not doing his job is called lack of output which can cause a reason for termination. Every cabin deserves flight attendants doing their job of reordering drinks, snack, or just being quiet so their pacs can nap. The F/C pac had every right to to say something to the noisy flight attendant I hope he wrote a letter to the airline about this. That attendant would have been called in for questioning and might have been reprimanded fo lack of output. We’ll deserved. I retired at 40 years and I’ll honestly say I never received a negative letter about my actions. My pax’s were number 1 to me and were treated as such. To me, whether ur sitting in First or coach, ur important and u pay my wages. Without u, I wouldn’t have had a job. In all respect, that flight attendant was lazy and AA would say he was stealing from them for upgrading his friend.
With the short staff going on these days believe me wont s*** be doe but I hope you asked to be accommodated with a free ticket
Why does reverting have to come down to “free”. I know once ticket won’t put the company under, but why create the mentality of free if unhappy? Aren’t the other ways to rectify the situation, like being listened to?
I agree with you 100%. There are other things more important. And if they were too loud; how about asking politely to talk quieter.
Paid.
You all sound so entitled. It’s not a big deal. You just need to shut up and deal with it. Take the stick out of your rear end and realize that the world does not revolve around you because you paid for something.
It may be you complaining next time. You pay extra for a service and when you do, you are entitled to get what you paid extra for. You are unyielding because you feel what happened was fine, when it finally happens to you dont complain or point it out, just remember your response to some one else’s complaint of egregious behavior.
If the pax received dimished service as a result, then sure, he has a legitimate gripe. But the first class ticket doesn’t entitle him to a conversation free cabin.
AA surely may have reasons to want to know about this, but that’s not really the passengers problem.
And with all the power FAs now seem to have, had he complained during the flight, the FA may well have called the police or reported him as disruptive
Cabin decorum in first class should speak to a certain level of service he wasn’t asking for quiet as much as he was saying the loudest 2 people were the FA not doing what he was paid to do. And his girlfriend who paid for a ticket in one class and was upgraded by her boyfriend to first class and displayed characteristics that would not have been tolerated in coach where she belonged. Ponder that for a minute then put yourself in someone else’s shoes.
DW, flight attendants only have power to prove this pax’s and give them a service that h is required to do. So many of these flight attendants that do think their power is being too big for their britches, the Airlines listen to negative letters as well as good letters. I disagree with u. All pax’s and flight attendants that disturb any pax can be told to lower their voices and adhere to the attendants. Yes I can become if a pax doesn’t want to do as the attendant has told them. Comfort is our number one objective to create a quiet and safe environment for any pax. I flew for AA for 40 years. There are ways to deal with unruly paxs and a flight attendant such as the one who disturbed this first class gentleman. That flight attendant knows he could be reprimanded for his decision to upgrade a friend and then talk loudly. Termination can happen and it has. Most everyone making comments don’t know how the airlines look down on flight attendants like this. I’d have responded with getting his name and submitting an unhappy letter to his supervisor. It’s cold in the unemployment line.
This sh!t sounds very privileged. If they were so loud why didn’t he just ask them to quiet down?!?!?! Im pretty sure they would have complied. Instead he sat there fuming and then wrote a whole article about it. Aren’t there still children in cages???He was that upset that the man upgraded his girl and they enjoyed each other’s company? Miserable ass people that want to cost people their jobs need to be slapped hard.
What I don’t get is that there we’re 2 FA’s according to the story and 2 people seriously disturbed by their behavior, well especially the FA sitting with the gf. But what I don’t get is one of the 2 upset people could have just said something to the other FA so he could tell them politely that they might want to tone it down, People are getting annoyed . I’ve waited tables too, been in the service industry so, when the other FA could have been told that they were being too loud, and they didn’t say anything to remedy the situation when they could have tried to politely. I kind of think that’s on them. Maybe they didn’t realize anyone cared about their excitement. It could have been done with politeness and handled with politeness.. then sleep.. If nothing after that had been rectified, I would have then made a complaint.
Ahhh modern day American journalism. A story gets written for a third party perspective with no other side, or even proof it actually happend and the comments section arrives with torches and pitchforks
I’m sitting here with a puzzled look on my face like is this a real article and are people really debating in the comments? This article should be rem9ved… SMDH
Please do a spell check before sending your comments.
When I was in the military a stewardess came to couch and asked if I wanted to sat in 1st class since there was plenty of room up there? Maybe it was because I was in uniform? I said heck yeah. She didn’t know me from Adam. She didn’t say anything to me except when she was asking if I wanted refreshments. Many times during my travels to places like Morocco on Mar Airlines, you sat anywhere you wanted once the plane took and it was nearly empty.
Flight attendants can upgrade military such as u. I have also upgraded pax’s in the grieving process who needs that extra Pat or hug. It’s all by what I feel as a reason for added comfort. I’ve upgraded parents who lost their military child who is in the belly of the plane and to carry him back to his hometown for burial. But AA does not give us permission to upgrade family or girlfriends. It’s just the way it is and unless that flight attendant didn’t care, we’ll it’s a chance he’s taken for being reprimanded. I see a lot of things that could have been done but I do understand thirst paxs upsets. AA gives us choices to make and this was not one of them. I flew for AS for 40 years. I know what our policies are about. The public does not.
Thank u for ur service!!!!
American Airlines is my last choice!!! I have had horrible experiences!!! Southwest and delta far superior in customer service!!! That flight attendant should have to pay first class for girl friend and himself!!!
My wife was a flight attendant for 25 years. She started with Piedmont Airlines which through mergers became part of American Airlines. She not once came home without several stories of completely unacceptable behavior by passengers. Do you not see the news stories today about passenger behavior causing flights to turn around mid flight. Law enforcement waiting to arrest them. Does the behavior of these spoiled self centered people make your complaint seem incredibly petty? I agree that common decency should prevail here. Talk softly. Common sense doesn’t exist anymore. But one persons behavior does not define AA. Of course they have opportunities to improve customer service. What company doesn’t? 80/20 rule applies everywhere. They work hard and very long days. There will be that percentage of employees at every company that leave a bad taste. Social media (the downfall of this country) allows people to air their ridiculous petty thoughts. Bad experiences have existed forever. But one just moved on with life without the need to tell the world about their bad experience. When was the last time you shared your many good experiences. Sorry you missed a nap. Air travel does an amazing thing. It gets you from point A to point B to places we couldn’t otherwise go and in an amazingly short time. Be grateful. Get over the expectation of being treated like your someone special. Enjoy the fact you didn’t have to drive. My wife left AA years ago due to passenger behavior . I have no affiliation with AA and rarely travel by air. I decided to reply because your complaint is just another example of the petty nobody cares need to let everyone know you didn’t get a nap.
Totally agree! While common sense should be used at all times anywhere … quit jabbing and get on with life. It’s too short to complain about things and the poor me attitude.
Godwin,
You clearly missed the point of her complaint. And though your response took more than 5min out of my nap time, I still can’t wrap my head around why you’d respond with an antiquated backstory. The point is that there are company rules and policies which clearly the FA allegedly failed to adhere to. To then allegedly continue on a loud inconsiderate banter while at work, is also a fauxpas. I don’t understand why folks are having a hard time understanding the point of the FAs misappropriation of company time, policies, and perks. So, Godwin, go be the Ken doll to your Karen-ish wife.
Boo hoo
Talk about all seeing this unique individual who’s prized thoughts are to let others know of there nap time and hear the choir sing was it? I’ve never really read of a person who I truly thought was a preppy waste of atoms but you take the cake my friend from one all seeing to another. Best Regards
what a crybaby
Excellent response, I agree with you 100 percent, especially your comment in reference to social media, which allows these spoiled ridiculous individuals to voice such petty worthless crap that the whole world doesn’t need to know. There are other ways to let management know rather then crying to the world that you didn’t get you nap. There are just too may so called adults that continue to act with a grade school mentality and social media allows them to vent their childish behavior for the world to see. To the author. Just grow up!
Wow! Dear Mr. Klint this article seems a bit hypocritical. Do they actually pay you to write a column about complaining? That seems a bit personal and using your power of media for negative purposes to serve your own entitled egotistical needs. Your sense of entitlement is what other countries find unappealing and ahborring characteristics. You give Americans a bad name. Do you not see the climate we’re in right now? People are dying all around us and God forbid some young people are having a fleeting moment together. No not to be completely insensitive to your moment of peace, yes they should’ve been a bit more respectful, but obviously they were excited to see each other so their intentions were not malice. If you had said something I’m sure they would have curtailed their behavior. It was an easy resolution. I’m sorry you did not see that. Why do you feel the need to go to the extreme write an article that you shouldn’t get paid for complaining since it’s your personal opinion and furthermore I’m sure you probably complained and that is just absurd to possibly make someone lose their job over simply an emotional response of joy. What a sense of entitlement, even royalty like Queen Elizabeth or Prince Williams has way more etiquette than you. Shame on you, shame on you! Grow up. You’re probably older than they are forgotten the joys of youth. I hope they do not pay you for this article!
I agree. Had the author simply ask the FA to lower his voice, I think his request would be granted. Communication is key. The request would have taken 2 seconds. This blog took much more time you will never get back.
Airline Stewards do put up with a lot. The answer here is courtesy works both ways. You pay for first class for a number of reasons and you should get the bigger seats and the quiet and service you pay for. The fact that this steward was loudly talking and not working – why pay him? For what? The 30 or so minutes he was working? The author could have asked the steward to keep the noise down a little…. Some people use first class after coming from a funeral, seeing a loved one in the hospital or having had tests from a hospital (as was my brother in laws case with cancer) etc. it isn’t all about rich people being petty. It wouldn’t have hurt the steward to get up a couple of times to look over to see if anyone needed him and it wouldn’t have hurt if he didn’t talk loudly. He was getting paid the customers were paying. I would hate to go to any of the businesses that you all think it is okay for the employee to act that way… like ignore you while you are trying to order lunch or talk instead of working o. Your automobile and have to wait for it longer,, or have the usher in the movie seat his girlfriend down and talk loudly behind you.
I agree with you,there is always people who are ready to complain about another person , which happens to often, did the one person or people approach this gentleman, maybe he was not supposed to working and was in between flights, the complainer said the flight was empty on both sides, so again people, be glad we can travel and be courteous to your neighbors,
Douche bags feelings had to be validated to nark on FA.. how dumb. Customer bought first class tickets for the “premium experience” which didn’t involve talking? Then had the audacity to be like, it would have been fine if he went to coach and did all that.. Compliant thinks they are above people trying to buy something they don’t have, class.
Best reply EVER.
Stfu
That definitely sums things up. Everyone is full of what if’s which tells us one thing. Nobody was there to see it , hear it or touch it. Maybe they should have thrown the FA and the girlfriend who clearly was a whore ( she did something for that upgrade ) out the emergency exit in flight! Now that’s something to write home about! Ri?
Lol this is the prettiest and most embarrassing thing I’ve ever read. A grown up man wasting time to punish a flight attendant who did something nice for someone else. Until you have your private jet, your are just another peasant. They are flight attendants, not your maids. Crying babies, panic attacks, and delays will happen to everyone, you aren’t special. I had to medically assist someone on a transatlantic flight for free during my vacation. I was put in first class with this person so we could have space and some sense of privacy. I didn’t sleep, I was stressed over someone else’s life, and the staff was amazing and prepared. Not one person complained that we ruined their first class experience by doing this. Sometimes flight attendants allow someone to be upgraded, you should be happy for them instead of resentful and annoyed. None of these things can affect you directly except for the noise which you could ask them to tone down or wear headphones for. Classic Karen.
With everything going on in the USA.. this is what’s its come down to? You have nothing else to write about ? The guy was just trying to impress his girlfriend… we have all, at one point or another done the same thing. If it bothered you that much…you should have hit the attendant button and said something about the noise or requested service if needed.
Here is my conclusion.. sometimes when something bothered you say something , if not just let it go. The guy doesn’t need to
lose his job over this.
Hope you are happy now!!!
Virgin America? Dude 2019 is calling you, it doesn’t exist anymore.
The past years are unprecedented growth, then pandemic then negative spreadsheets. It’s a race to the bottom to be a low cost carrier whoxhanybif these brands were NEVER meant to be and here we are. With Frontier Spirit merger it’s probably going to get worse.
If you think you’re smarter and know better than please go work for the airlines. We all need you to tell us what to do.
Ok Karen. How dare the working class be allowed any of the same privileges or comforts as you, especially at their place of employment. They should have downgraded her to the cargo compartment, and then dragged him by a rope outside the bank of the plane
People PAY for these seats haha. Typical to expect a handout. Handouts do not equal equality.
People pay for ALL seats on aircrafts not just business. Nothing wrong with letting employees fly for free. This isn’t a handout, it’s a perk of the job.
Is sitting on the job also a “perk”? The main complaint wasn’t bringing someone from Economy to 1st Class. It was the rudeness of being LOUD, the employee who was working an ACTUAL shift….. and, well, not working, and IMO, this should have been arranged beforeboarding. Every employee who does fly Free (as a perk) gets this ‘Authorized’ prior to takeoff. There are RULES….
Thank you….. And I’m sure he knew his job and what he was allowed to do… And the passenger also said he went and spoke to the FC FA… therefore, I think he got permission to do said deed….
I agree with Jelly J. You can move away from the noise and ask for a refund.
Give me a break. Plenty of people who can afford to fly first class got their money from “handouts”. The generational “handouts” of the 1% are the ones that need to end. Not upgrading a working class person.
And God forbid a hard working FA relaxes for a moment on one nearly empty flight with his GF. Wow, you people.
No really. Not only this article but the comments show how entitled some people are. They’re acting as if flight attendants who make scraps and barely get to be home don’t deserve a break sometimes. The entitlement in this article is crazy to me and I hope all of these people experience the amount of work that flight attendants have to put in
As an RN I completely agree! These FAs have been working through Covid, masking, customers not masking, and people are getting more and more rude….give the guy a break-he had ONE EASY flight-he’s more than earned it! And upgrading a friend to first class is one of the few perks FAs get because they sure aren’t getting rich from their jobs! People need to be more gracious and easy on each other…because I believe most people are doing their best in the worst of times. God Bless and stay well! Signed a tired RN
The plane was empty though.
This is ridiculous some people have nothing else to do but complain. Sleep when you get home it was a short flight. I can’t believe this article made it on google trash. Guess she just wants a refund if you don’t want to hear conversations rent a private jet next time. We have bigger fish to fry like staying alive in a pandemic and should be more understanding and grateful. Everyone is understaffed and overworked. stay home if your gonna complain about your 90 minute flight lady.
Exactly, what did this woman loses??? Like what or how does that impact your child l’or your dog???? Get a life . !!!!
I think whomever did the right thing. I wouldn’t have been upgraded to first class. He gets paid to do his job and not sit with his girlfriend. Chat his butt at home with his girlfriend.
Exactly!! Delta Airlines just turned a flight around because coach passengers moved to first class. I just flew on American on Sunday. First class was only 30% full rest of the plane was packed. Someone commented that complaining in this case wasn’t valid because places are short staffed. Pre Covid or now, two flight attendants for first class on a PSA flight is all they’d have. They weren’t short staffed and he should be disciplined.
I fly American exclusively and my two hour flight on Sunday was made worse by one flight attendant being consistently rude. I’ve been in customer service all my life and she wouldn’t make my cut.
Jalapeño, “you can sleep when you get home”? Not the point, I don’t like hearing conversations and in a small aircraft an ongoing party would be unbearable, sleeping or not.
Very true; one time, flying internationally out of LAX to Asia, I got up to use the restroom (everyone was asleep already), and walked by the galley and voilà, there it was: a FC flight attendant making out with her bf, who had been sitting in FC; they were surprised,,to see me and really didn’t know what to say; soon after I returned to my seat, she immediately came over to ask me if I needed anything. Perhaps I should have said something to her or her supervisor, but I didn’t.
Someone forgot to take their “don’t be a tw@t” pills, didn’t they, Hazel?
Same way you can say what you said, the person issuing the complaint can complain. Who cares if it’s a short flight? Some people who travel regularly for work get very little sleep and look to flights for a short reprieve. Doesn’t matter if it was a 90 minute flight or a 9 hour flight. The flight attendant was out of line. Should never have brought his girlfriend to first class, and shouldn’t have spent almost the entire flight disrupting other passengers and sitting. If he were a passenger, sure, sit and chill the whole flight. Not when you’re working though.
By the way, Hazel, let’s put the gabby twins next to you on ANY flight when you’ve booked a seat in first class, disturbing you the entire time, and see how you appreciate it. I’m guaranteeing you’ll be pissed, and everyone reading this comment knows that I’m right, regardless of how much you try to deny it, simply because of a “short flight”, so can it, lady.
So true! I want peace and quiet when I fly! I don’t need to hear someone else chatting loudly! I am paying for an expensive seat and I deserve an excellent experience not a stressful and annoying one!
Flight attendants are often complaining about unruly passengers! It works both ways! Enjoy your flight perks but not at my expense! Remember if customers don’t want to fly because of your behavior or attitude then the airlines go bankrupt and you have no job! We also bailed you out twice and still get nickel and dimed with little if any gratitude!
We all don’t know that of all these post “your right” nice try however.
*STANDING OVATION!!*
She had the right to have peace and quiet! After all that is what she paid for. If the attendant was going to seat some there that didn’t pay for that class, at least they should have shown respect for the other passengers in any class. It sounds as if the both if them should have been on their own private jet, so they could make all the noise they desire to make. There’s just too many things now-a-day that no one respect’s anyone. Where is just doing right. When you are traveling on any mode of transportation in any class why not respect other’s. You can talk without been loud and rude like you on an outdoor sports event. Be polite in places where you should!
She had the right to have peace and quiet! After all that is what she paid for. If the attendant was going to seat someone there, that didn’t pay for that class, at least they should have shown respect for the other passengers in any class. It sounds as if the both if them should have been on their own private jet, so they could make all the noise they desire to make. There’s just too many things now-a-day that no one respect’s anyone. Where is just doing right. When you are traveling on any mode of transportation in any class why not respect other’s. You can talk without been loud and rude like you are at an outdoor sports event. Be polite in places where you should!
There’s a thing called headphones
Nah, she didn’t have a right to peace and quiet. She had a right to an airline seat (and even that can be recinded). Does she have a right to peace and quiet at a football game? On a city bus?
No. You’re in public. Expect disruptions.
This is like moving to NY city and being mad people are screaming down the block at 1 am lol. This stuff comes with the territory. Be glad it doesn’t happen every time.
There are often upgrades and seat reassignments after boarding. This is well within the rules, and oftentimes even necessary for weight distribution (especially if the front of the plane is too empty). The flight staff can reassign seats at their leisure if the need arises.
While etiquette could have been better, ie keeping the volume down, what exactly do you think flight attendants do that keeps them busy for most of a flight? On a 90 minute flight, there’s no meal service. Heck, often times it’s so short (and with current CoViD regulations) there might not even be a water service. Flight attendants arent scrubbing the bathrooms and cooking your meals from scratch. There is oftentimes ALOT of down time on flights, just like the passengers. The only difference is you don’t see them sitting behind a little curtain instead of in a seat in first class.
If this is as stated Google Trash why are you on this site? And not short staffed read it again. Two FAs in First alone, one was not during his job.
I see nothing wrong. He was rude by talking loud??? I fly every time and hear babies screaming the whole flight or someone snoring away.. People find the stupidest thing to cry about! If you don’t want to fly American Airlines over this then don’t! Some of us enjoy it and if that happened and I was on the flight it wouldn’t bother me. There’s too much more important things in life to worry about than worrying about people talking on the airplane
It always amazes me when people say something wouldn’t bother them. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t bother you. Obviously it bothers this person, and they’re the ones telling how it affected them. Don’t downgrade how someone else feels about a situation because it doesn’t bother you. Also you mentioned babies crying or someone snoring. Those are things that can’t necessarily be controlled, but being loud most definitely can be controlled. The FA and his girlfriend were most definitely rude and inconsiderate. They aren’t the only people on the plane. Like one person mentioned, be aware of your surroundings and be considerate; everything’s not always about you. All that comes with home-training and maturity of which these two lacked. Lastly, of course there’s bigger things that are going on in the world, but that doesn’t mean that minor things should not be addressed. I will call out rude and inconsiderate persons in a minute. You don’t get to be like that under any circumstance. Remember, it’s not about you.
I co-sign I concurr I agree…. Karen was mad because she paid and the young didn’t have to pay for an upgrade…
I agree and more then likely his girlfriend was flying for free under him and once the plane door is locked that means no more passengers getting on then they can see what seats are open.Then he has the right to upgrade his girl people are just messy get a life. I work for a airlines. At the ticket counter and gate that’s how it works. 6 people I have on my paperwork fly’s basically free we just pay the taxes 11.00 one way. 22.00 round trip.
This is a legitimate complaint. I don’t give a rat’s ass about the woman going up to first class. It’s all about being inconsiderate and rude. I’ll call you out in a heartbeat if you’re being rude and inconsiderate; there’s no excuse for it. It’s from no home-training and being immature. They were both rude. I guess they thought they were the only ones on the plane. I don’t even care really that he was a FA and doing his job. He and his girlfriend were rude and inconsiderate; bottom line. I’m just glad I wasn’t on that flight. I don’t tolerate being inconsiderate; two adults? Oh hell no!!! You’re not toddlers.
You’re right Hazel. Matt is getting a company paid First Class seat
. If he didn’t like his neighbor he could have moved back to an economy seat next to a crying baby. Otherwise he should shut his eyes and shut his mouth.
Company-paid first class seat? I wish…
The bottom line is – they should have been considerate to other passengers and the flight attendant was not behaving professionally. He was on duty to probably over 100 passengers – he was on the clock. He could spend time with his girlfriend when they arrived.
Get a life. It seems this author is jealous that they don’t have anybody that wants to sit next to them for 90 minutes first class or otherwise
exactly, let the them keep complaining i dont see any problem here if need coffee or water easily you can ask him why complaining? man injoying his girlfriend few hours sick
100% agree! I have dealt with far behavior on an airplane from other passengers. How could a conversation bother you so much? I once had a man literally pick his nose for 30 minutes of the flight sitting right next to me. I had to try not to cry because it was just that disgusting. I don’t think someone enjoying a conversation is a big deal and you can simply put it in ear plugs.
There needs to be quite a bit of clarification and fact checking here. The author has every right to be annoyed and he needs to do his homework. I WORK FOR PSA and I’m telling you that this is not a matter of opinion; this behavior is not permitted. Period. Whether or not you see anything wrong with how unbelievably rude this was regardless of it being an employee, it simply isn’t allowed by the airline.
American Airlines has three wholly owned subsidiaries: PSA, Envoy and Piedmont. None of their employees are AA employees; regardless, the same standards apply.
That being said, staffing shortages are a real issue right now and many flight attendants are being abused by the greyvarea in contracts. We are not protected as people assume. Every time the airline wants to keep us out 6 or 7 days, each of which requiring q4-16 hours of flying, they simply declare “irregular operations ” and all bets are off. No matter what you think you know about this industry, you don’t unless you’re in it and it’s not glamorous in tje least. Moreover, I resent the “meager duties” comment. What we do mostly happens behind the scenes and WE ARE THERE FOR YOUR SAFETY, NOTHING ELSE! Food, drinks and all tje customer service nonsense is just that; it serves as a distraction for nervous flyers.
Believe me, I see both sides as someone who would have never done what this young man did; I also know that passengers think we are “Sky waitresses” and currently our lives are in danger just stepping on a plane. We are being beaten, kicked, yelled at. Spit on, harassed and of course there is a pandemic.
Have some empathy and common sense….all of you!!
Oh and by the way, none of us are being paid when the main cabin door is open. Fact!
Tragic point of view. It reveals so much…
You sound just like those people who complain. This thread is the most entitled responses I’ve ever read. If you paid $8000 for a flight, you wouldn’t be mad if your peace was disturbed? There’s all kinds of reasons that people pay for first class, don’t be mad if you can’t. And it’s obvious that you can’t because if you could, you’d be empathizing with the woman who paid it. Lol we all have to be reasonable, and there are some things about the situation that are not reasonable. Plus, this would be such a great world if we were all just kind. Imagine that!
If you pay $8k for a 90 minute flight, you’re a nitwit. If you pay it for a longer flight, I’ll bet you’d figure out how to “use your words” to ask for what you need.
This whining clown spent more time writing this article than he did on the plane. He knows nothing about FA rules, that passenger was either a buddy pass holder or a spouse or other family member. Once the doors close the FAs can and do move people, and that includes upgrades.
If there’s no work to do (and the plane was almost empty) there’s nothing wrong with a FA taking a seat.
If this entitled jerk wanted quiet, all he had to do was ASK. But no–instead he stewed for 90 minutes. Now I REALLY want to know if the FA was “ethnic” because I am suspecting a bit of bigotry in this diatribe of his. Was he afraid to confront the dusky guy with his dusky wife/gf? It’s a reasonable question.
So what if someone she considers a rightful first class passenger was loud? Does she get veto power over their behavior too or just the lesser people?
Really, who cares. If the person with the complaint would have just said something this would t even be on this thread. It’s his own fault and his victim mentality. Say something or shut up, telling your “friend” who has a penchant for writing about nothing burgers is a losers way of handling things. If it happens to, and you don’t like it, ask them to keep it down politely, then oh know, nothing to complain about, what will I do now, oh yeah, sleep.
My thoughts exactly!
I completely agree with you!
Hazel,
If u bought a Coach purse but they sent you cheap store brand you would pissed. Why?, Because you paid for something you didn’t get.
Earl Cancel, are you comparing rich people to name brands and people who are unable to afford first class to “Knock offs”?
Exactly. He sounds bitter . I don’t condone the loud chatter but apart from that the author sounds bitter and just wants to get the FA sacked. I hate people like this
I agree with you. I guess it’s too hard for some folk to just mind their business. Noise level aside, why was this news worthy? I thought I was going to read a good proposal story. That’s not news worthy either but a lot better than reading about whiners.
I love covering good news – but this seems to be a recurring problem and flight attendants seem absolutely emboldened to do what they wish onboard…this is a problem for AA in particular, whether it be mainline or their regional carriers.
No everything in life goes our way and how we want it. Specially when it comes to public transportation. Stop being a bitch and complaining so much. Can’t believe he made an article about this
I think you’re missing the point. This is an flight attendant. He should represent. Point taken, under staffed so why is he sitting down chatting instead of working. I’m a frequent traveler international most of the time so I get it you can’t do anything when people are talking but there is a thing call being considerate and polite. Nonetheless what makes it worse is that this is an employee. He should have been more courteous. You can carry on a conversation but you don’t have to be loud. There’s a difference. I think service for u.s. airlines in general need to learn more from the international airlines. The service is better, more courtesy and more organized.
The issue here was completely bc a economy class pax was moved to the front of the plane next to the *premium* pax veiled in the FA’s shirking his responsibilities – it would’ve been ok to do it in the economy class; wouldn’t he have been shirking his responsibilities there as well? I get that premium first is paid for somehow by the traveler or by a company, but let’s call this what it is – a disgruntled pax that was irritated by an FA’s (in)discretion to let the “cattle” move to the front.
For the moment I refuse to begrudge a flight attendant anything. Flown USAir since I was 16, got dragged along to American, had my ups and downs, but been exec plat for years until plat pro last year – this year will be last year as EP.
If you want to criticize American, do an in-depth on the disastrous “loyalty points” program.
But don’t pick on the FA’s. They clean up after AA’s messes, and now have to deal with threats of violence.
And so what? The seat was empty.
Thank you Larry. I’m now on a flight where the attendants are dealing with a planeload of people who refuse to wear masks, completely trashed the lavatories and one woman keeps leaving her child’s dirty diapers ON THE FLOOR IN THE AISLE. The fight attendants’ patience is astounding.
Dang are you on a flight or on a subway train…you better look out the window and make sure you see clouds I don’t think I’ve been on a plane long enough for anyone’s child to leave several dirty diapers in the aisle.
Thank you.
You DO realize that flight attendants are there to work.
If said flight attendant wanted to spend time on a plane with his girlfriend, they should have booked a flight together. 1st class passengers pay a steep premium, to sit where they are, and while upgrades do happen…
A flight attendant isn’t paid to sit as a passenger.
If I’m a customer who paid to sit in first class I don’t expect to be bothered by someone who didn’t pay to sit there. Not only that, AA employees who fly non-revinue are expected to not disturb paying customers.
Yes! My thoughts exactly. What a condescending miserable person that must be.
That is your “opinion” . Amazes me how those who cannot express themselves in a intelligent way revert to blanket name calling as “Karen”. If people want to be taken seriously they need to learn how. The FA was in error. “Premium Paying Passengers” pay more for the amenities.
You’re a jerk. People pay a premium for a better flying “experience,” not to watch a worker (who is on the clock, receiving a paycheck and THERE TO WORK) chat with his girlfriend and neglect their assigned duties. I think this man handled the situation correctly, I hope AA not only refunds the cost of the trip and also reprimands the flight attendant.
You must love handouts. You sound like a charity case! And a nut case! PAY like the rest of us bum lol
You’re kidding right? The people who enjoyed those luxuries paid for them! He was working! Not getting paid to sit and chat with his girlfriend. If she wanted a first class flight she should have paid just like everybody else! Clueless!
I agree, entitled jerks are so pre-pandemic!
Did you read the article?
I don’t have the comfort of not working while at work. For me, it’s actually against the law for my to shirk my duties.
Exactly
I’m convinced most of that comments are made by American Airlines flight attendants. Yes, people who pay for a flight are entitled to a comfortable well serviced flight. No, that doesn’t mean you get to talk to you bff the whole time loudly who was in coach and you decided to upgrade them.
Can you imagine if you did this at your job? Do you get paid to not do your job and talk to your friends?
People are so eager to criticize the one who complained instead of look at the person who was performing their job poorly. They are being paid to do this. Go talk your friends on your downtime like the rest of us.
The plane was empty. Author was just angry that the attendant sat his friend to first class. I can’t stand people who can afford 1st class resents someone getting an upgrade. I believe the attendant should have upgraded everyone and filled the first class section. That would have made the author really freak out.
I totally agree with you. So what if someone sat in first class and was loud, according to the author. What if there were other paying passengers in first class that were loud and obnoxious? Would he have had a problem then? He needs to to relax and find more important things to write about. I didn’t even read the entire ‘article’ it was so pathetic.
He needs to grow a pair or buy your own plane.
If 1st class was filled enough, the FA would not have had the time to talk to his friend. Re the noise, however, the complainant could have just requested the FA lower the chat. People should be more civil to one another. The complainer sounds like a snob, though. One is not better than anyone else because of more money.
People who pay for first class are working class too. What about the rest of the coach class passengers? Why not move everyone to first class? Next time you go to a store pick up something that you didn’t pay for and may be the store security will help you understand.
Your so right. Its probably the only perk in the joh. And the flight was only 90 minutes. Good for him to look after his own.as for all the Karen’s get a life and mind your own business.
Are you a flight attendant?
No. I am not a flight attendant. Just an observer of human interactions, with 71 years of experience.
No. I am not a flight attendant. Just an observer of human interactions, with 71 years of experience. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Silence in this case, allowed bad behavior. Extenuating circumstances, who knows? No harm in asking why the FA was allowed to take time off. Direct conversation could have prevented the situation from continuing.
You lead such a sad life. Perhaps you should have got in on the simply miles promo and you would be happier. All bloggers have millions of miles to book tons of free travel and …we’ll…you don’t.
Perks of the job, many jobs take advantage, ones that come to mind that you haven’t reported on are of our government and police for thinking the rules don’t apply to them. Maybe you should shed light on those matters of importance. Rather then some guy treating a family member to first class and making sure she had an exceptional experience. For all you know she could have been afraid to fly and this helped keep her grounded.
One i wish you would report correctly, this was not American Airlines but Envoy a airline made up of several other airlines. American Airlines keeps getting a bad rap for stuff like this.
Then American Airlines should not put its name on PSA planes or uniforms or flight numbers.
The author of the article is a man. His name is not Karen. He paid for first class service. I agree with him that the FA appeared out of line. Perhaps the author should have approached the FA, who allowed this situation, immediately. The whole problem could have been resolved. Remaining quiet along with other 1st class passengers gave the impression everyone was ok with the FA’s behavior. Speak up or persevere with bad behaviors.
I AGREE Suk!!…Who cares where the girlfriend sits or the FA (as long as he’s fulfilling his duties during the flight). Most FAs simply hang out in the galleys between service intervals. If First Class is open, friends/family of onboard inflight crew members often let them sit there to 1) promote EE benefits with family & friends as an airline employee 2) allow the friend the comfort and proximity to the galley/bulkhead FA stations and 3) it’s just damn nice to see someone smile if possible you miserable and possibly depressed frequent flier!! Just be glad you get up each morning, are able to have your health to work, can support yourself and any family with a job and have the often forgotten virtue of living in what’s unfortunately left of this country called the United States of America! So quit your whinnying self rant and mind your own damn business sir!
Good reply.
I don’t believe people are allowed to fly in the cargo hold. That just seems like a reckless suggestion.
I honestly can’t believe this is a story. People will complain and cry about anything. Definition of karen.
Chicken or the egg? Many of us work “long, hard days” Thats no excuse to be entitled [redacted by admin]. Is there a part of bad passenger behavior that is a result of this kind of FA behavior? Or is it other way around? Bottom line, we’ve all become a little too narc and it is slowly degrading our country
You seem a bit Delusional, Aubergine Cranium
You ought to learn how to Suk Üron Dík.
American has been circling the toilet bowl for years. Ever since they were purchased by America’s worst, and basically became them they’ve become a trashy airline. What’s left is only American and name only. I had executive Platinum status for well over 10 years, and still fly just as much. In fact more. And became so disgusted with the poor quality service and program. That I left about 5 years ago. A lot of my peers have done the same. Or just maintain minimal status.
At age 77 I have flown a lot. American Airlines went out ot their way to make my flight pleasant. Attendant asked me before takeoff if I had any special needs. (I ask for a wheelchair when time between flights too short.) Staff friendly and courteous. Flew both first and economy. Bag almost beat me off plane. Usually there is a long wait for baggage. One of best flights in years! I flew into Tallahassee also.
Glad you had a great flight.
For everything you claim to know. You should know a PSA regional flight is not an American Airlines flight attendant. Different entity.
Just for future reference…
Who owns PSA?
Matt
We probably don’t know the full story we only know what the passenger is stating. My wife was a flight attendant for American for 24 years and I have flown for years on standby. The flight attendant could of been dead heading and was helping out on the flight. The passenger friend can be moved up to first if it is ok with the crew. My wife has done the same when I flew. The article sounds a little snobby when people can’t talk in first class that seems a little unreasonable as I fly for work regularly and get upgraded for free because of my status with American. I usually wear noise canceling headphones for noise. Because I can’t control the environment around me but can mitigate the noise. Don’t always assume the worst in people.
Todd
I was thinking this too. I know that the FA is allowed to move people up with permission from the lead and FAs do seat in empty seats because those jumpseats are hell to sit in even for 90 minutes. The only thing I read that could even slightly be a probem with him talking while she/he was trying to get some rest. I think this could have been solved with just a polite request of speaking lower. I get it I do but this is being taken out of pocket. Also, someone said that a FA is there to provide a service and I want to clarify that they are not there just to hand out drinks and snacks. They are there to ensure your safety providing services outside of that comes second to last. Next time if its bothering you so much speak up politely ask them to lower their voice if that doesnt work ask for the lead FA and once you land ask for the manager and/or simply write into the company.
Doing the right thing when no one is looking..something many people find difficulty doing. If your on duty, do your duty period…Your employer doesn’t owe you crap except your check for honest work.
Mathew did you talk to the flight attendant while he was sitting in first class to tell him how you were feeling or did you talk to the flight manager (flight attendant in charge of the flight) while the situation was going on?
By the way you called the flight attendants by their height, “the taller” etc, already says the kind of person you are and confirms you did not even talk to them about you feeling uncomfortable about the situation. You did not talk to them right away because you did not want the situation to be fixed on the spot, all you ever really wanted was to let the situation go on that way you could show off your fancy writing while putting someone down and feed your first class ego at the same time. I got news for you; you not only look like a snake, you are one.
Reread story.
What’s wrong with a FA enjoying a small perk of such a thankless stressful job. You sound like a complainer and a bit of a snob. Get a life and quit making it hard for others
Did you read the article? The Attendant was on duty. Getting paid not to work is not a perk. It’s dishonesty. If he had wanted to take the same action while off duty then I’d say he was within his rights and the noise they were making could have been addressed in flight. However the same people I see saying this person is a Karen for having valid feelings would probably lose their minds if they went to a restaurant and their waiter took a seat with their girlfriend and neglected them. Would that be a job perk as well? Unreal that someone getting poor service from an employee should be considered in the wrong. First class or coach is irrelevant to me in this story. If I was looking to buy a drink refill and my flight Attendant was nowhere to be found, but could be heard having a loud and disturbing conversation at the front of the plane. I’d be saying something as well. I’m no snob either, I worked in the service industry for a decade and when I wore the uniform I did the job and tried to make people’s experience as enjoyable as possible. Even the rude ones because idk if they really are an ahole or maybe they are just having a bad day. Maybe it wasn’t my dream job, but someone has to do it. Why not try and do it in a positive manner? If you spread positivity then you find more joy in your work because positivity will be returned to you.
Indeed. This is a response with thorough thought. Yes, I salute you.
What’s wrong with it is that it’s against company policy. Airline employees who fly what’s called non-revinue are expected to be discreet. Not to flaunt the perks afforded them. And, to not disturb paying customers.
Correct, employees family can be upgraded with permission from the crew but need to adhere to the rules and be respectful and keep a low profile
Where is this printed? This would be a big news if this is the rule at American Airlines. Can you take a screenshot of it and link to it here?
There’s nothing at all wrong with the FA enjoying perks; don’t even care about the girlfriend sitting in first class. My problem with them is being rude and inconsiderate; no excuse for that. That comes with no home-training and being immature. I don’t care who you are, your position, your job, etc, rude is rude. I’ll call you out on it every time. They must have thought they were the only people on the plane. Be aware of your surroundings. These are adults, not toddlers. No excuse.
For all we know they weren’t loud at all and this women just expected everyone obey her wish for a silent flight. She was pissed about the upgrade. If it had been someone she considered worthy being loud she wouldn’t care.
I cannot believe the number of stupid people in this blog who obviously just do not understand the concept of the complaint. It has nothing to do with being entitled or being jealous or even upset. It has to do with respect and the fact that he wasn’t hired to sit with his girlfriend and torment other passengers whether it be fc or otherwise. He should’ve been doing the job he WAS hired to do. He shouldn’t be allowed to disturb others and upgrade against the rules at all. Not what they pay him to do. He’s behavior and other FA like him are probably one of the reasons that AA didn’t have many passengers in the first place.
You lowlifes really actually think “get over it” till it happens to you somehow. You obviously have no morals or cooth yourselves. Right from wrong, very simple.
Thank YOU for properly understanding the situation. I was beginning to wonder if I had simply not expressed the real issue clearly.
This is the problem with people today, your so busy name calling and belittling! The flight attendant position IS CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SAFTEY!! Alot of us have been working thru the pandemic the entire time, while the majority including the FA’s got paid to stay home, well welcome to working again. And getting perks through the job is not an issue, but he was on the job. My understanding is that second sevice got cut to prevent additional people contact, which seems a wasted effort if your seated in the cabin with the passengers that you won’t serve. Hmmm
Employees they are not what they used to be, and soft company policies are creating problems.
I cannot believe the number of stupid people in this blog who obviously just do not understand the concept of the complaint. It has nothing to do with being entitled or being jealous or even upset. It has to do with respect and the fact that he wasn’t hired to sit with his girlfriend and torment other passengers whether it be fc or otherwise. He should’ve been doing the job he WAS hired to do. He shouldn’t be allowed to disturb others and upgrade against the rules at all. Not what they pay him to do. He’s behavior and other FA like him are probably one of the reasons that AA didn’t have many passengers in the first place.
You lowlifes really actually think “get over it” till it happens to you somehow. You obviously have no morals or cooth yourselves. Right from wrong, very simple.
American is an airline that had many different experiences with in the past and now.
The real true good hart with love and care with a love and respect and not lied or cheat on each other person anymore and far-away love distance it’s not too good anymore it’s only true love in god’s word and respect and see each other better my only good fun hookup or live married…….if you want to move forward with a good fun ok not scammed just a little age35/45 ok that’s sounds good fun my dear….goods
I was Stewardess in 60, 61, 62. Was so different back then. We were professionals and above reproach. Not allowed to date passengers or pilots. Couldn’t be married. I see so many people in different jobs today that just don’t care. There’s no pride at all. I see poorly trained everywhere. Yey wages keep going up.
Couldn’t be married? What the heck does that have to do wi5 being a flight attendant? Or a professional? They probably had such a rule because the pilots viewed you all as playthings and eye candy? That’s a different type of “profession.”
When I started reading this article I was torn between the fact that she deserved her peace and quiet and the fact that she could have ended up with some couple the same as this that actually booked first class and then she would have had to such it up (not that chatting loudly is fine but that its a fact that it can happen in any flight and in any class)…..
But after reading that she wanted this couple should go to the back if they want to chat….
Why so the should disturb the poor not as privileged human beings ?!?! Who does this Karen think she is?!?! What a waste of a read!!!!
If the pax received dimished service as a result, then sure, he has a legitimate gripe. But the first class ticket doesn’t entitle him to a conversation free cabin.
AA surely may have reasons to want to know about this, but that’s not really the passengers problem.
And with all the power FAs now seem to have, had he complained during the flight, the FA may well have called the police or reported him as disruptive
Wow with everything going on in this world. Covid19, Racism,unemployment,Murder, Hate,Confusion On Every Hand, Drug Abuse Young And Old, teen trafficking, rise in home cost, violence in every city in nation have increased. And you want to complain about A Flight Attendant For Seating A Female Friend In 1st Class. Please get over it and Stop.
I would live to be a fly on the wall when you people who constantly complain are flying. More and more you sound like selfish, entitled people. I have flown AA a minimum of six times per year for the last 15 years and have never had a bad experience. Maybe, it’s because I treat the FAs like I want them to treat me. Their primary duty is to assure the safety of passengers not wait on surly, ungrateful passengers. I agree that this FA should not have been sitting in first class–or anywhere else–“carrying on” with a passenger, but how about not judging all FAs–or airlines–by the actions of one or two employees? And, try treating those employees the way you would want your son, daughter, father, or mother to be treated.
As a former senior FA with American, I wholly agree with your observations and insight into such a highly atypical flight! C. R. Smith was the CEO of American during my era of flying for AA, until he was tapped to become Secretary of Commerce.
Our training was in every detail, exceptional, as was out annual recurrent training.
Those of us with “clipped wings” would most assuredly performed in the manner expected.
I bristle almost every single day when I read such reports.
Who Cares…At Least he has a Perk on his Job
He isn’t making that much ..!!..So I’m not Mad
LOL
Never flown a first class, But i would find that really interesting and a thumb up for the FA. Who knows if that was the only opportunity he will ever have to impress his girl and the only opportunity to fly the first class. Beside, the plane was close to empty. He probably didn’t have too many duties to perform on that flight. Aside from being too noisy , I don’t think he did anything wrong. You could have just nicely ask them to lower their voices to a romantic mode. Somethings are better overlooked. Would you complain if the FA was your son or sibbling?
FIRST OFF ALL OF YOU LIVE SAD MISERABLE LIVES IF YOUR SUCH HATERS THAT YOUR UPSET BECAUSE THIS GUY WAS CHIVALROUS ENOUGH TO SOT DOWN AND MAKE TIME FOR HIS LOVE. YOU DON’T KNOW THEIR BACK STORY MAYBE SHE WAS MOVING MAYBE HER MOM WAS SICK OR SHE COULD BE GOING AWAY TO COLLEGE. WORK JS TO ALLOW PEOPLE BTO STAND ON THEIR OWN TWO FEET ANDALE TBEIR OWN WAYNOT TO CATER TO YOUR EVERY LITTLE WHIM AND IF YOU DONT HAVE A JOB WHERE YOU CAN FEEL FREE TO SIT A FLIGHT OUT ONCE IN A WHILE AND DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING THAN WTF ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR LIFE. NO OFFENSE BUT IM NEVER TRADING MY HEART AND SOUL TO JUST BE A CUTBACK ANY WAYS CORPORATE AMMERICA HAS NO LOVE GIVES NO PENSION AMD COULD GIVE A FLYING FORGET JT. YOU PEOPLE JUST GO ON AND NOT KNOWING ANYTHING JUST ASSUME THAT HE WAS SLACKING OFF HIS DUTIES. WHAT YOU COULDN’T PUT THE TRAY UP IN ITS SEAT OR WHATEVER. QUIT HATING ON A POOR SMUCK FORCED TO DEAL WITH OVER PRIVELEDGED NEW MONEY THAT DOESNT UNDERSTAND MONEY DOESN’T MAKE YOU ANYTHING. ITS A TOOL JUDT LIKE YOU ARE IN THE COG OF TAXATION AND FEES AND CHARGES AND ASSESSMENTS OF COSTS TO THE POINT HE PROBABLY BARELY HAS DISPOSABLE INCOME LIKE THOSE WHO GRIPE AND WHINE ABOUT HOW THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO GET IT BETTER THAN EVERYONE BECAUSE THLEY PAID. CASH IS NOT KING MOENEY CANNOT BUY RESPECT AND RUDE IS ALWAYS TRANSPARENT NNO Matter HOW FAR YOU THINK YOUVE MADE IT. IF YOU ARE LITERALLY SPENDING YOUR NIGHT COMPLAINING BECAUSE THIS GUY GOT TO SPEND A TRIP ONE WAY WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND. JUST STOP. SOCIETY DOESN’T NEED ONE MORE OF YOU LET ALONE YOU IN OUR LIVES. LOVE AND HAPPINESS AND ENJOYMENT ARE SO MUCH MORE SURE I MAKE MINIMUM WAGE AND MY FORMER BOSS TOOK MY IDEA AND SHUT ME OUT OF MY OWN BUSINESS I PRESENTED TO HER. SURE I HAVE RESENTMENT BUT DONT DOUBT FOR A SECOND IF I GOT A PLANE MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER IS GOING TO BE ABLE TO SPEND SOME TIME WITH ME NOT CAST TO THE SIDE IN THE NAME OF CUSTOMER SERVICE. YOU PISSED ME OFF THIS BADLY THAT I AM BLOGGING ON SOME NERD COMMENT SECTION. WHOEVER AGREES WITH ME I SAU WE TAKE BACK AMERICA AND START BQCK IN WITH COMMISSION PAY, WORK LE4KS LIKE FREEBIES AND PAID LUNCHES FREE STUFF BONUSES AND STOP LONWING THE CEOS TO PAY THEMSELVES LIKE AMAZON THAT SELFISH BASTARD. HE COULD HAVE GIVEN EVERY SINGLE EMPLOYEE ON THE PLANET A 5 DOLLAR AN HOUR RAISE FOR 5 YEARS AND IT WOULDN’T HAVE EVEN BEEN A BASIS POINT SO WCREW YOU CORPORATE AMERICA. I WANT MINE ROO. I WANT VACATION HOMES OR HEY A FULL TIME JOB WHERE ITS A REAL FULL TIME JOB NOT 3M2 OR 3 LART TIME JOBS THAT ALL MAKE YOU WORK THEBSAME SUNDAY BEING PAID A MONTH WHAT THEY GET AN HOUR TO NOTBEVEN HAVE SET FOOT INSIDE wheRE YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN. in 1997 i made more money and was the 6th highest volune of sales Nationwide of all sears making what i do now at 4.25 an hour with my 3 percent commission but now i work way more and earn way less with no benefits no profit sharing no bonus no incentive. Screw this way of wage.
Whaaat? I didn’t know this was an SAT essay question but you definitely wasted your time with your words all in caps. Delusional trollers.
I am glad she said something about it. If a customer is paying for coach she should have sat in her seat and also if an attendant is being paid for his job he should at least be working rather then chatting the entire time.
It is company’s responsibility to make sure to keep there customers happy or they will loose business.
Why didn’t the author just mind his business. The plane was empty. The attendant should’ve upgraded everyone to fill up first class. That would’ve really pissed off the author.
So he let a friend sit in first class and chatted with her. They normally sit where you can’t see them anyway. Karen mentioned that the plane was pretty empty so I’m sure the other FA was able to cater to everyone’s needs. If their talking was so bothersome why not politely ask them to speak softly? All everyone does is complain about EVERYTHING! With all FAs have had to deal with lately, give him a break. Stop trying to get someone fired when this could have been resolved on the flight by asking the other FA to ask them to be quiet.
Yay! I’ve been reading and reading these comments to see if anybody was going to mention the obvious! Just let the other fa know that the two were talking too loud and please ask them to be quieter. The fa sitting with his friend really should have thought about being more quiet himself but sounds like they were having a lot of fun looking at the photos. Just ask them politely to be more quiet
It would be so nice if people could just worry about themselves. Like who taught you to be a snitch and write a whole article . Find a life.
Shawn you are the Truth! I feel sorry for these people in here so low with their integrity/character’s considerations and high on their own white label Karen juice… People please don’t vote… We don’t need another Chaz
I think I would upgrade my gf too. That’s the perks of FA’s.
Although, American Airlines is the worst, right along with Spirit in my book.
See how long you WAIT on a flight attendant after you PUSH the button above you.
So what’s the problem? We’re you or any of the other passengers inconvenienced?
Maybe you should mind your business.
Who cares? Hell I would upgrade my S/O too. And so what if he was chatty patty! I’m sure he wasn’t the only flight attendant on board and there was no catastrophe that occurred. Sit down, shut up, and mind ya damn business in that order and stop being an asshole. And lastly stop acting like your perfect and play by the rules every damn time♀️
I have never understood when they asy they don’t have time for service.
In a 27 min flight from Doha to Maman Bahrain you get a sandwich and drink. We lack service on all American carriers
It’s quite possible that the FA was not on duty. Pilots and flight attendants often “dead head” back to their hub or reposition for future flights. There are maximum duty hours for safety purposes that are usually strictly enforced. This passenger does not know the situation with this particular flight attendant.
I’ve had horrible experiences with rude AA employees to the point that I would refuse to fly with them again even if they have a lower cost flight or shorter flight than others. I’ve said I rather walk to my destinations than fly on AA.
Better yet we were delayed 30 minutes at the gate so so AA employees could catch a flt home form the football game In mobile , al.
Then they kept ti themselves and talk about it’s like thier own private jet…..will never fly them again and neither will family or business partners.
Amen to that!
The miracle of this story is not the catty and jealous Karen writing the article. The real news is: THERES ACTUALLY A STRAIGHT FLIGHT ATTENDANT?
Didagree, Jared. AA has been my fav airline for many years. They have always gone beyond to help me when my 4 children and i were flying. They have gone to extra lengths to get me out when flights canceled. Attendants have always been super great on flights. When passengers were unruly they have handled it well. They have NEVER , in 25 yrs, lost my luggage. They are my fav airline. They typically have the best prices. I cant say enuf about AA.
This was a PSA Flight Attendant NOT an American Airlines flight attendant. PSA is part of American Eagle. 2 different companies!
No excuse for the PSA FA to be so loud and rude.
Are you kidding? Can we take a breath here? So long as the airline fulfills its duty to YOU what difference does it make to you ?
Why are you jealous of some who is upgraded? FYI People get up graded and no, you don’t get to choose who. Yes, people talk and laugh, is there a rule against talking and laughing?
You deserve to expect to get what you stated you received–exactly what you paid for. Nothing more. Be happy if you get more than you paid for. But most importantly, stop being outraged and jealous about someone else getting more than they paid for, it has nothing to do with you! And as for the, “I think the attendant should work harder” mentality, you have no idea what they are paid to do on that mostly-empty flight that has traumatized you so much. Choose to be happy. Be satisfied with getting what you paid for…and abandon the jealousy of others who are happy and having fun.
Okay Matthew we read your absolutely horrible experience on American Airlines. You also shared with us everything about you and how important you are. I think this is a little bit about upgrade Envy. I think you took up enough of people’s time explaining about yourself and what a horrible horrible experience that was for you. If in fact you have taken all the flights you say you did is this really the worst thing you have ever experienced on the flight? You might want to think again. But I forgot it’s all about you. I was with flight attendant for 25 years for TWA. I work very very hard and because of this I’ve had for hernia operations and several foot operations all of which the doctors have told me had to do with my job. Just because this person a question might not have worked so hard for one day you blasted them. Maybe next time you’ll think before you talk. Perhaps you should keep all of your vast experience out of this because again you were reading about someone else weren’t you?
PSA is not American Airlines. The flight attendants are not American Airlines FAs and the Anetican Airlines unuon (APFA) does not represent PSA FAs. Write your story about PSA.
Maybe if we weren’t so offended by people’s missteps the t really wouldn’t be that big if a deal. And may have even been privately and instantly corrected . . Now the dramatic and hyperbolic cancel train is under way… Choo choo coming together and helping each other realize what’s inportant
I could care less for an adult that needs the validation of someone, easy to stand up and have a less that 60 seconds request to keep it quiet. Problem solved.
But this has to be even published to have some attention, really?
Really, to the person who summited this report. I can see if this Guy had his Girlfriend on this Flight Frequently, it would be a problem. Obviously the person complaining doesn’t care for young love! They were probably excited sharing memories of a event they shared together. But is it worth having the Guy Fired or Reprimanded from his Job?? All Airlines have Issues from time to time, but I have much respect for what, & who they have to deal with every Flight! Especially during this Covid Pandemic! So to the Person who complained, GET A LIFE, & SOME LOVE!!
i have no knowledge of why you are upset with American and that is your peroggative, however my mom who is 74 years old just retired from the airline industry after a 5x year career as a flight attendant. i have rode on many flights in my 50 years of age. not once in all that time did my mom upgrade me for free and not once when she worked a flight i was on did she sit beside me and neglect her passengers. yea my my finished her carreer with American and she worked for TWA. Just because someone cann afford to sit in first class does not mean they should be treated with disrespect. and for calling the Airline a joke is not your place either. my mom was honored with employee of the year multiple times and employee of the month multiple times. She even had an article published about her and the flight crew she was working with at the time. so to say they are all a joke shows how insugnicient your opion really is. There will always be bad employees in every profession. like somone else commented 80% do the right thing and about 20% do the wrong things. That is what we call life. Some people di not fit well in jobs and those need to be weeded out. not by blanket comments, but with constructive critisism to which give opprotunities for improvement.
I am an American Airlines “brat.” My father worked for American Airlines for 25 years as a mechanics foreman from 1960s until he retired. He truly loved his job and was very proud to work for American Airlines. He considered it the best airlines in the world, bar none!
Said to say in all my years traveling, I have seen a great decline in the quality of American Airlines. It starts from when you reserve your ticket to actually being on the airline. I don’t see the pride that I used to see when I was growing up.
My father would, I think, have a far different opinion of American Airlines now.
Anyone who pays for first class is a wanker. I’ll invest my money because I’m not stupid. This person deserved the “horrible” experience. I cant stop laughing.
Southwest airlines in my opinion is the best airlines..they require over 10,000 + miles of training..for their
P
pilots..I know this because I know a pilot for Southwest.
Most other airlines require ALOT LESS miles of training..like 300.
No comparism!comparison!! Go SOUTHWEST!!
Ok so first of all no one knows if the girlfriend was traveling with a buddy pass which would allow her to move up to first class without any additional payment or points. It’s 100% allowed. I am sure that the flight attendant would give his girlfriend one of the 24 passes he is allowed yearly. Secondly, was the employee actually on the clock or was he traveling to his next point of departure? Many times pilots and flight attendants travel in their uniform to reach their point of departure. True they should not have been disrupting the cabin whether it was first class or coach but the rest is just assumptions.
I say so what? People spending too much time batching over stupid things. I’m sure the FA DOES HIS JOB 99% OF TIME. THE GOVERMENT SLACKS EVERYDAY. Give the guy a break. Put some headphones on.
I find it highly suspicious that the author who “witnessed” this behavior can’t be man or woman enough to publish their name. Maybe it’s because you blew this completely out of proportion? Is it possibly because you are just a bitter, breed of person who clearly isn’t being treated with love and affection like the FA’s girlfriend? And that random passenger who assuaged her fears that she indeed was offended by this employee? Hmmm. Also. Let’s break down facts. PSA is wholly owned. It is NOT mainline. They ARE NOT American Airlines flight attendants. They are PSA employees. Why do I bring this up? Because the author didn’t even know that the union they mentioned doesn’t even represent the regional FA’s. So clearly this individual can’t even get the basics right. Yet we are to take her word and at face value? No ma’am. Now with that said. What did this diatribe solve? What good came from this clickbait post? All I see is someone stirring shit up for no reason at all. Stop being such a bitter Betty and drop the nasty storytelling. It’s not a good look.
Sounds like the person who wrote this and those who replied are acting like entitled snobs. Sounds like your passed there was empty flight and help was presented. Sorry you weren’t the center of attention like you and those who responded disappointed with these actions. You and everyone else are not special. Keep bitching about nothing that’s the world we live in and post it on some site. You are as awful as the person you posted this about.
Not only that Jared. Long ago when flying AA, I said and keep saying, the AA union destroyed that company. Iconic company which no longer represents the american spirit of serving others, quality, and safety. That was lost long ago.
I couldn’t agree with you more. This an airline where a person can just walk off the plane with your carryon luggages and they don’t try to help you figure out what happened, or give you options of what you should do or even get the camera’s in the checked. They just tell you it’s your problem not theirs. True story… this just happened to me 2 and a half weeks ago on an AA international flight that landed at Washington Dulles airport. I don’t expect great things from this Airline. All disappointment. Still waiting for a resolution not that I will get one judging by how I have been treated so far.
I’m more surprised to hear that a male flight attendant is heterosexual lol.
U right American Airlines are thieves also. On our way to Jamaica we gave Flight Attendant a 50$ bill for a 10$ snack . Plane lands No Change No Flight Attendant and when we went to Airline they ignored us. Must be another one of their attractions. Never Flying them Again
You brag about all the miles & destinations you’ve been, and yet you say you have never heard people chat so loudly, or heard babies cry, or someone like you complain so much? Since you planned on sleeping on a day flight (very poor choice BTW), why didn’t YOU go back to your quieter Bilge Class? You couldn’t appreciate 1st Class amenities while sleeping anyway. American Airlines is arguably the best & Premier airline in the USA, along with United. If you were the FA, I doubt you’d act any differently, especially being with a loved one. Why are you so against 1st Class perks for employee families, when it seems you get them 200,000 miles per year? I suggest you get a window seat, order a drink, and enjoy our magnificent & beautiful planet that few people ever get a chance to view from 35,000 ft.
The way American upgrades people to first class happens when the correct occasion happens between a family on a plane and the correct flight attendants do it if it needs to happen.
I don’t agree with you. American Airlines is a wonderful carrier. I flew with them a couple time and my experiences were first class although I was in economy.
Don’t let the misguided behavior of one employee blacken the Airlines good name.
FA appears to be void of any Savoir faire. Something that should be Baked into his personality.
I am currently employed at AA, I have worked for another major airline as well. I completely agree with all the comments I have read. I remember when major airlines took pride in delivering a good product for the passengers, of course they cared about their employees. Unfortunately almost all of the carriers are becoming sad in delivering a good flight for their passengers. You can’t complain about the unruly passengers if you can’t provide a quality service. From the time you enter the airport till you reach your destination it should be stress free. Not anymore even for employees that fly. That flight attendant should be fired and the others working that flight should be reprimanded.
Thank you Dave. Appreciate your comment.
I get the feeling writer has exaggerated the situation to get an article in.
This guy should mind his business. With all that’s going on in this world…he chose “THIS” to complain about. GEEZ… grow up people and complain about something Real!
American Airlines is my airline of choice and I think everyone is overreacting here. Quit being jealous someone gets to spend time with their significant other and quit being a Karen. Grow up.
Like Caribbean Airlines too..no help from a Ticketing Agent yesterday at GAIA, Barbados to book a flight for a friend from Jamaica. She refused to help me so I walked away. 1.40 p.m. I hope she knows the Airline has $700 million losses and is restructuring.
Did OP miss out on any service? No, According to his post
Did OP have issues with his seating assignment? No.
Do you know for a fact the said girlfriend didn’t pay for the upgrade and subsequent move to FC? No.
Did anyone else on flight (by your own words plane was mostly empty) miss out on service? No it seems.
Did OP get his feelings hurt because he felt slighted for whatever reason? Yes IMO.
Maybe they needed time together. Maybe the other FA’s were okay with it. Maybe there’s a lot more to this But really just live and let live.
It sounds to me like these 2 women were just jealous they didn’t have a friend to laugh with and share pics. What is the harm in a flight attendant using some perks on 1 flight out of thousands he probably works very hard on. That job is not easy and this was more than likely a one time occasion that his friend was on his flight and he took 2 little hours to enjoy it and treat her special. And what cowards these women ate to not confront the flight attendant and ask him to quiet down. I am sure he would have obliged. You ladies never do anything personal at your job?? Oh wait… You both probably don’t work. Please we need less haters in this world and more love. Be happy that these 2 people were enjoying each others company. Writing a complaint later instead of just asking them to quiet down really takes the cake. My advice, find your own people to love and lay off hard working people just trying to make their world a little brighter for 2 lousy hours. Get a life Karen!!
All of you have the biggest sticks up your butts. Yeah sure they could’ve been a little quieter and possibly would have been had said passenger just freaking asked them to quiet down. You people seem like the most self-entitled boomers I’ve ever seen. He’s on a flight with his gf and who knows how long they’ve been apart so he was probably just excited to see her. It’s none of your business mind you. “I paid $8000 for a flight” the hell is wrong with you? Obviously you got money to spend and throwing that in other people’s stuff is just about the rudest thing you can do. Fact of the matter is you people need to take those sticks up your butts and yank them out. Maybe you’ll be a little happier in life.
If you want quiet and privacy, fly private jets. Nothing is wrong here except a spoiled wealthy person complaining. This is the same kind of person who’d complain if a mother had to travel with kids or if two gays were making out the whole time.
How hard is the airline workers job that his relationships suffer at the cost of your travel? Yes. It comes with the job. He took a flight with the girlfriend so they could have a romantic getaway-get over it. It was one flight where you didn’t get a nap. You shouldn’t be sleeping on a plane so I can hear you snore or make it difficult for others to get over you either. Get over your entitlement.
Why didn’t he just politely ask them to lower their voices?
Really? Honestly the only difference between porcupines and first class passengers would be that the pricks are on the inside. Their stupidity is only equaled to the airlines cupidity. To separate seating by class of what? All seating on public transportation should be equally sized and take into consideration the safety and comfort of all, not the unprincipled few that actually believe they deserve better than anyone else.
What is the big deal !? Would not any person do that for a friend, girlfriend, family member ? What is the big deal at all ?
It’s not the upgrade, it’s the fact they were LOUD. You don’t even see that as a little bit problematic?
As a former flight attendant, it makes me angry reading stories like this from privileged people. So you mean to tell me, first class is the only place where you aren’t allowed to talk loudly?? Really? You really have to be in the back of the plane to carry a loud conversation? You’d hate me and my baby then. I fly first class every other 2 weeks thanks to work, and my baby is LOUD in that front row of first class honey. If you wanted a true “private” experience, where no one was loud, no one “disturbed” your peace, then fly private and you’ll only have to please yourself! Cry me a river. This is the epitome of privileged!
The EMPLOYEE should not talk loudly. What is so hard about that, Amanda?
So dramatic. I thought the article was written by a Karen but made it worse that it was a man Karen. You are bothered because he sat down in first class but it would be okay if it was in economy? And talking about his duties and stuff as if you hired him? Get over it Karen!
People don’t realize you’re not dealing with AA because they were bought out by US Air. They kept the American Airlines for name recognition. Being an ex AA employee I can tell you the company is falling apart from the inside out. AA was a good airline to fly as well as work for in the pre US Air days. Now the US Air management is using their style of management and blaming the blunders and rude behavior on AA. It’s a sad commentary. Thanks for listening.
My husband, two kids (12 and 9), and myself flew in December. San Diego to Philly. Took the red eye so we could try to sleep a little, and the flight attendants talked the entire time after beverage service. Got to hear some juicy and personal info. TMI. My daughter, who sleeps like a rock, actually commented that they were loud. Same on the way back. Won’t be flying with them again
Why is minding your own business not a thing.
Haha. I think the author Klint, was jealous the male FA had a female girlfriend.
I will completely avoid AA. I’ve had nothing but bad experiences. They consistently send an email a day prior to your flight to let you know your flight has been cancelled and they have two other options for you. Example: I had to arrive in JFK from SAN at 3:30 pm to connect with my 5:30 pm flight to Europe. They canceled that flight and give an option to arrive at JFK at 7:30 pm (missing my connection) or arriving at JFK the NEXT day!! Another issue, they’re always late pulling out of the gate, and if you have a connection you miss it. They put you on another flight with 2 stop overs when you originally had only one or a direct flight. THEY ARE HORRIBLE!
Jared Houser, appreciate your comments and your article and obviously, it comes with some background which means that you’ve been previously hurt by somebody using first class that should not be there.
However, a lot depends on the circumstances, including the flight capacity, how long is the flight, etc., etc.
I am a frequent flyer with million miles on both American Airlines and a few others. I find American Airlines’ service and delivery onboard and a port a par with all major airlines, their aircraft like most USA aircraft lack what some Middle eastern Airlines may have, however, their cabin service is 2nd to none. I myself often gift 1st class tickets to people who may not have flown or experienced it. Most often I find frequent fliers behave just as good as bad then ones and fly first class for the first time.
In the words of Paul McCartney let it be.
American is just larger international Ryanair at this point (I’d rather fly Ryanair- at least the cost fits the product)
“ Instead the FA chose an area of the plane where people pay for a premium experience.”
Anyone “paying” for a premium experience on an AA flight to Tallahassee deserves what they get. It’s all upgrades and it’s a short flight so it’s a drink and a snack puck from the basket.
That said, no excuse for the behavior by the FA.
This isn’t his normal experience with AA? Lucky him. While this is beyond outrageous, this is by no means unusual in certain aspects (eg, AA FAs playing on their phone, texting, chatting, etc. for the vast duration of the flight instead of doing their duties in first or biz).
I avoid AA at all costs. They are the absolute worst of traditional airlines
“To the flight attendant: American Airlines does not pay you to sit down in first class and chat with your girlfriend during the flight”
No they don’t. They pay you to sit inside of the zipped curtain area of the galley and chat with the other FA during the flight.
Yep, that’s what I experience. I always fly first class. After drink service the first class FA seem to “disappear” in the back with the other FA. When I get up and look back it’s a sea of glowing faces…all on their phones.
legitimately asking do you want fa’s to walk down the aisle every 2 seconds? when no one calls them they have nothing to do. use your brain.
That’s why you have a call light. They “disappear” so people in the cabin can sleep and do work. They are only a button click away…
You folks should be ashamed of yourselves talking poorly about flight attendants. Are we sinking this low? They aren’t there to serve you snacks— they go through rigorous 8month training to be able to safely evacuate an aircraft, give you shock should you have a heart attack and perform cpr until a doctor arrives. You have no idea the multitude of things they are responsible for but you’d never know because they smile through missing their families every holiday and missing major life events all to get ungrateful people like you to your destination.
This article is trash.
Completely agree with you! Matthew needs to up his story lines. In the big scheme of things this story is [redacted].
Watch the language, please.
I’ve had great service in American Airlines. After the drinks are served on a short flight, what else is there’s to do. this is hardly worth mentioning let alone follow up on. You think somebody should lose their job over this? Good grief.
Im w Sur I’ve had great service in American Airlines. After the drinks are served on a short flight, what else is there’s to do. this is hardly worth mentioning let alone follow up on. You think somebody should lose their job over this? Good grief.
Who here realizes that a flight attendant can get you barred from flights for life? All he would have to do was submit this guys name to the no fly list and he would be toast! He handled it 100% perfectly!
I have no problem with them disappearing, sitting anywhere texting, or whatever. I don’t even care that he brought his girlfriend up to first class and he sat and talked with her. My issue is that they were loud, which means now you’re being inconsiderate and rude; violating my space. Now I have a problem. Being inconsiderate and rude is unacceptable, and I will call you out on it every time. I don’t care what you do, your position, your company, etc. You aren’t the only people on the plane. Be aware of your surroundings, bottom line.
Matthew: I am not Anti-American Airlines
Also Matthew: Daily topics on how shitty AA is (esp. around FL flights)
There’s a dialectic, which Matthew achieves, between not being anti-AA, and also writing about dumb things that AA does, particularly on a *aviation-based blog.” It’s a false choice to need to choose one or the other.
I have seen this happen many many times on international flights on Delta and AA. Right after door closes you see someone moving from coach to business. Why do I know they are acquainted to the FAs? Because what happened on the flight described above was very similar to what happened on my flights. There were instances where the upgraded person and one of the FAs even hugged and kissed (on the cheeks) when flight was completed. Many times the FA spent a lot of time next to the upgraded person during the flight chatting. It is a club!!! They always do that.
While I’m sure there are instances like you mentioned regarding FAs, if there are open seats in first or business class are closing boarding, they may move up non-rev passengers or revenue upgrades. It’s perfectly normal and not something to worry about…most airline companies do the same thing.
I’ve said it many times. AA is a marketing firm that flies airplanes…
Every AA supervisor I’ve spoken to in the last 12 years emphasized there’s no in-flight unpaid upgrades allowed by the airline and doing so constitute grounds for loss of union protection and cause for immediate termination.
He is NOT an AA employee. He is employed by, trained by and managed by PSA Airlines… And while is a wholly-owned subsidiary, it is a separate company.
You are absolutely correct, and the author should have fact checked this information prior to publication. American Airlines Mainline FAs are trained by AA to a different standard than the Regionals. The smaller “Regional” Jets are owned and operated by other companies who hire and train their own FAs. They are very often younger, less experienced FAs than the Mainline Crews. And while AA always takes full responsibility for these Crews and their behavior, I really wish that all FAs weren’t all clumped together by the public. Mainline FAs who fly for any major Airline – including AA, United, Delta and Alaska – are all different than the FAs who work on the smaller Regionals. They may fly under the same banner, but their training is definitely NOT the same.
Exactly, the author of the story is an idiot. The flight attendant does not work for American Airlines, nor does she belong to American’s union.
“PSA Airlines… And while is a wholly-owned subsidiary, it is a separate company.”
It cannot be both a “wholly owned subsidiary” and still be a “separate company”
You don’t seem to know what basic words mean. If a company is “wholly owned” by another company it is by definition… Not “separate”.
I don’t necessarily blame a flight attendant for doing this with a nearly empty first cabin on a short flight. However, nonrevs are a major source of irritation on international flights. No, I’m not happy nonrevs are sitting in business and then talking loudly with their friends in the galley. Nonrev perks for flight attendants and pilots should be eliminated. People are always going to behave differently when they are nonrev and didn’t have to fork over tons of points/miles or cash for business/or earn status.
Flight attendants make barely livable Money and you want to have nonrev privileges removed LMAO what a joke
I agree we need to worry about just trying to breathe normal air again not about a flight attendant moving his girlfriend on a short flight to first class
you realize the main perk of being a fa or pilot is nonrev right? for friends and family? we work insane hours and deal with so much and the nonrev is a benefit to go with our friends somewhere or help our friends and family, we deserve it. eliminate and everyone would quit. trust me.
Do you think every FA or pilot lives next to the airport? Over half of us commute to work every work using non rev benefits. You wanting those to be taken away shows that you know nothing about the aviation industry.
I am sure that you get perks on your job. Stop complaining and start flying more got your upgrades.
How do you know how much a nonrev pays. All companies have perks, for the airlines, travel, just happens to be ours. These days, lower tier nonrevs might pay more for their seats and behave better than full fare. And who pays full fare for anything anymore. Most of you try to get as much as you can and pay the least amount.
Good luck taking nonrev benefits away from Pilots and Flight attendants. There are already mass cancellations due to staff shortages, just see what happens if you take away the only upside of the job.
Wow. Expected to be demeaned by the general public but by a fellow FA who thinks they are better than their regional counter parts it’s just disrespectful. Wholly owned regional flights of AA account for 60% of AA’s routes. PSA flight attendants also have AA employee numbers as well as wear the exact same uniform as mainline. As a matter of fact the only way you would be able to tell the difference from a mainline FA to that of one of AA’s regional wholly owned companies is by looking at their wings which in passing most do not notice. At the end of the day my dear we ALL do the same job and no one is less experienced than anyone else and to imply that your training is better or more in depth is false due to the lack of standards that I’ve seen flying on mainline flights. But of course, that conversation isn’t ready to be had…
100% agree. Thank you for your comment.
Kudos. Yes the job is so hard already, the perc
Kudos. Yes the job is so hard already, the percs is all they have
This was NOT an American Airline flight attendant. This was an FA for PSA–and entirely different company with different training and management. Get the full story correct if you are going to be bashing… BTW…posting this information publicly, which is easily searchable, makes you the judge and jury…and you are getting this information SECOND HAND!!
SHAME ON YOU for doing this….you have no proof that it happened or the circumstances as you were not there!
I trust the source. Any other questions?
These FAs on this flight aren’t even in the same union as AA FA’s…in fact, their President is the President of the United Airlines FA Union…so perhaps you should check your sources and do your research better. Also, your ‘informer’ never said the woman was his girlfriend or significant other, YOU made that up.
I have a real issue with self-appointed ‘service police’ who go after front line, customer service people and try to get them disciplined or fired by attacking them personally- on the internet. It’s petty, intrusive and mostly immature… And you did it second-hand… And you call yourself an “industry expert”?
DCA to Tallahassee is typically a 2:15 to 2 hour and 30 minute flight. If you publish anecdotal material you should at least do your due diligence.
Matthew, you are full of s***. You obviously don’t know the difference between American Airlines and their contract carriers. And to repeat a story like that based on what someone told you? You sound like Donald Trump when he tells some lie paraphrased by the first words, “I was told” or “people are saying”. If you own liveable fly, I guess you can publish all the rubbish you care to, but if you have a boss, they should fire your dumb ass. You are no journalist. That I am positive of.
PSA is not a contract carrier. Along with PIEDMONT and ENVOY, PSA is wholly-owned and is part of the American Airlines Group. Republic is a contract carrier.
Do you have any friends? I would trust you about three feet from me , after that you are a crook.
No questions, but your constant bashing of AA is beyond tiresome. I do not work for AA, and never have, but I have many, many good experiences flying with them. “Me thinks thou dost protest too much!” Sounds more, and more like sour grapes. What happened? Did they not hire you when you wanted a job?
They are allowed to upgrade standbys. The flight was clearly regional given it’s PSA which means the ONLY duties the FA had was beverage service. After that they sit in their jump seats till they prepare for landing. So he did his job. The only thing he’s guilty of is being loud.
Source dude just trust me…
I don’t force you to read this…
Sounds like JPB is an American Airlines employee or a stockholder. Can’t see any other reason that he’s so offended and bent out of shape that someone would post a bad experience on American Airlines. Hahahaha!
You are as stupid as the author. The flight attendant in question DOES NOT WORK FOR AMERICAN AIRLINES.
He doesn’t work for American Airlines but PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of the American Airlines Group.
If you work for a wholly owned subsidiary, you essentially work for the parent company.
When your are wholly owned that means your are 100% part of the parent. That’s what wholly owned means. They are a subunit of the larger company, but still ultimately belong to the larger company.
sounds like a phony story from a pessimestic person living a very sad existence. If empty seats his girlfriend likely was flying non rev and could have had that first class seat anyways under company policy. Stop being such a karen. You got a free upgrade and feel all entitled lmao
EXACTLY…upgrades for non-revs are FREE. AND–the writer of this piece of garbage wasn’t even there and has no first-hand knowledge–some ‘reader’ he trusts sent it to him…. No wonder these self-appointed “industry experts” are viewed mostly as jokes now….
You have to list your partner/spouse/friend for business/first in order to get it…
Ummm..so? that’s easy…takes a couple mins. AND how do you know what transpired before..or even during this. You are posting 2nd-hand gossip from “a reader you trust”. WOW….
You are so lame. Such a hater…
Not entirely and also do you know this because you know someone that is a FA or even gate agent? That’s not how it works. How about you interview then about their experiences with any and all passengers. So.. therefore…That’s not doing your due diligence in providing such information..which makes this story ridiculous and providing with wrong and even misleading information. Also, non revs can and it is a right to be seated upfront(upgraded). It is part of the flight perks and it is a paid flight ticket still. Especially since the pay is ridiculous. .. it all sounds like a personal experience which to me doesn’t even validate the fact that FA have so much more to deal with on flight. Why not you write about that instead? Especially amid this crazy pandemic experience, especially when flying… tHAT sounds for a much better read. Also..
The passenger wasn’t complaining about the FA giving his girlfriend a 1st class seat. Read the article! They were complaining about the FA being loud and obnoxious with his gf the whole flight, Since the FA was supposed to be working, you’d think he would have been smart enough not to be disruptive to the other passengers. If he wasn’t so loud, no one would have noticed or cared that he was sitting with her, especially if when someone hit their call button, he got them what he needed. A FA’s job is not just keeping passengers safe You are glorified waiter/ waitresses and butlers /maids You knew that when you took the job. It’s what you get paid for. The pandemic doesn’t change that. And I’m not putting any of those jobs down. I was thinking about being a FA when I was younger. Obviously FA’s are not that overworked if he can sit there the whole flight. I know that you go through a lot of B S these days from out 9f line fliers and guess what– you complain about them when they get disruptive! Yet the passengers who are not causing any problems aren’t supposed to complain about an FA that’s being disruptive and keeping them from getting a nap in before they have to go to work when they get off the plane? If he gets written up or fired, he brought that on himself. All he had to do was keep his voice down and there wouldn’t have been a problem. Any employer expects their employees to conduct themselves professionally, when on the premises, in this case, the plane, and in uniform. The pandemic isn’t an excuse for not doing the job you get paid for, cause just going around calling people Karen’s isn’t going to help you when your living on the streets. I didn’t realize so many people are that illiterate that they can read a ( short) blog, (which is an opinion, so the writer has the right to write about anything) and not even be close to knowing what it is about.
Yes. I have been upgraded on a Delta flight even though I was non-rev. I can see that might have been the case. However the FA sitting and loudly chatting the entire flight is completely unacceptable. And I speak as a former AA employee.
Amen. What a bitchy little passive aggressive complaint. He blasts flight attendants for mitigating their exposure to COVID, publicly slams this flight attendant in this BS story, then turns around and kisses up to the overwhelming number of hardworking flight attendants at not just American mind you, but at all carriers. Dude, you are way to deep in your feelings. Get an effin grip, and GTFOH!!!
“Mitigating” exposure by wearing cloth masks, but God forbid the passengers need a drink of water on a six hour flight. What a logical move…
I’ve been critical of some of your stuff, but your dead on right here. The FAs at AA are just screwing passengers over using COVID as an excuse
they let you take off your mask to drink and eat. been on a flight during covid or nah?
they let you take off your mask to drink and eat. you been on a flight after covid or nah?
This is the [redacted] piece of content I’ve ever read. A little thought to less trite matters would make your opinions less painful to read.
Watch your language.
Did this FA ignore bells and/or refuse to give a glass of water to someone? You sound like a real smacked ass.
Also appears all these direct flights are on CR7-Canadair RJ 700 aircraft.
Again, what “Premium Experience” did this source expect?
The airlines need to figure out how to stop of this deterioration of service since the pandemic. There are more people willing to pay for domestic F than ever before. I certainly am. (I think there was even an article, maybe in the WSJ, about how people were redirecting spending from international business class to domestic F.) And people are less loyal than before. The airlines that fix this will be more likely to get the premium dollars. Those that don’t, like AA, will be competing with the other LCCs on price.
Incidentally, if this happened to me, I would have complained by email, mentioning names, and asked for compensation.
Makes no sense…if the “girlfriend’ was a non-rev, she would have been upgraded for free to an empty F/C seat.
That’s where the entire story lost me. It could not have been true after he said that, Mainline, PSA, Envoy and Piedmont employees pay NO extra to list anyone (other than their parents) in the Premium Cabin.
Airline Employees take care of their own, it will always be like that at least in North America. I’ve worked at several airlines and am now a registered guest of an AA employee who switched industries, and OP would be PISSED if they found out how many special favors are done for non-revs when agents and flight attendants feel like it.
I could write a book of every story of preferential treatment I’ve had from agents and FAs.
Mr. Klimt, chill. AA is a private company and the flight attendant did not use public funds. So please stop being so miserable and envious of ppl that have a relationship other than going around trying to get attention.
It was inappropriate conduct and grounds for discipline.
Says who?? You weren’t even there and know absolutely NO SPECIFICS of who the “girlfriend” was or what actually transpired…
Some would say you are a privileged, passive aggressive, part of the problem little b. What happened to respectfully asking for what you need. After the flight attendant gets fired, and hopefully next time you fly on that particular carrier, you will be denied your glass of red whine due to staffing shortages.
I’ve given up (most) drinking in 2022!
Have to agree. People pay good money for the comfort/space/more quiet in domestic first class. The passenger didn’t get what he or she paid for because most passengers wouldn’t be as loud as these to. Nonrev is an antiquated perk that has no place in any benefits package. This was an nonrev upgrade as the passenger was in economy, however, it’s the same issue. Paying passengers/those who used earned miles get the shaft.
What a loser
U dum
The FA in question is not even in the same union–so the basis for your article about the union ‘fighting to cut back service’ makes no sense. If you did your due diligence, you might have known this…
Cutbacks apply to all AA / AA Eagle flights, so…?
WRONG!! the AA union you are attributing this to and referring to at the beginning of your sad little article said NOTHING about AA Eagle flights because those carriers are not in it’s wheel-house, nor do they have any say in their policies or procedures. Just admit it, Mattie, you don’t know what you’re talking about here.
Your a Whiney little pussy posting gossip for clicks.
Instead of the FA, I think you needed to be “rooted out and held accountable” for your shoddy, inaccurate and petty blog post…which consists of second-hand gossip, and several inaccuracies that should have been researched first.
LOL. Struck a nerve, didn’t I? Was that you who brought up your GF. You going to justify the action? I would not have published it if I did not trust the source…
OOOH BOY….You are even more petty and personally vindictive than I thought.. You put karens to shame.
And the most amazing part, you were not even there! It’s teenage 2nd-hand gossip being pedaled as “industry news”. What a joke! You certainly are no industry expert
Good luck with the review board!
LOL….#1–it’s not me.
#2–there is no “review board” You continue to reveal with each snarky response how ignorant you are of how the industry works and how petty you are.
You’re digging yourself into a deeper hole.
See, I know you don’t like my classification of this Envoy FA as “AA” but such a designation was made deliberately, not out of ignorance that AA and Envoy are under different employment contracts. And flight attendants who break protocol are not simply fired, but are given a chance to defend their conduct. Whatever your term for it, it will come down to a review board if the FA in question is called out for his conduct.
Speaking of sitting flight attendants – has anyone else noticed over the past couple of years the increased frequency of the pilot’s announcement that “due to turbulence” the FAs are being asked to sit down? (And “sorry” for the disruption in service.) The announcement may or may not be followed by some very mild turbulence for a few minutes, while the FAs remain seated for essentially the rest of the flight. I’ve seen this pattern often enough in recent months to leave me with no doubt they are making excuses to limit interactions with the passengers (i.e., provide service) due to Covid.
Yes, I’ve seen it too!
No service in FIrst Class on an AA flight from TPA to PHL recently using that excuse. No drinks, and no contact or apology from the FA’s and I’ve been on far worse flights for turbulence before. It’s absolutely being used as an excuse.
It is called snowflake generation. A mild wind may move the plane a bit and affect their emotional conditions causing irreparable damage. I mentioned before that FAs are useless and won’t help at all in a case of emergency. They are there just to makes passengers lives miserable.
The only person with obvious issues with flight attendants….and grammar is you. I am not rude, and will always attend to customers needs. I prefer to work first class. I have proudly flown the purser position because I do believe in stepping up, and have done so for over 24 years. I have been with Anerican for 27 years, so I take exception to people like you lumping all us into your narrow minded basket. I don’t know what you do for a living, but whatever it is you do, you need to learn that just like you might have a bad day…..so might someone else. And speaking of snowflakes, in the case of an emergency, the way you rant-YOU would be last able body person that I would call on to assist….SNOWFLAKE ❄️
Wow! I am not, and have never been, employed by an airline, but your attitude amazes me. Aren’t you just soooo perfect? I can understand why you have a hard time getting service. No one wants to wait on such a selfish, entitled, condescending person. Why don’t you try being as nice to these “servants,”–as you obviously consider them to be–as you want them to be to you? Imagine, a “servant” want to sit down occasionally. You and Matthew, both. are completely out of line and way off base!
Would you quit being such a snowflake? Please.
Wow. We aren’t gonna risk getting hurt or hitting the ceiling so you can get your Diet Coke Earl. If the captain tells us to sit down, we sit down. It’s a precaution. Sometimes it’s not as bumpy as predicted. But it’s still better safe than sorry. And sometimes, by the time it’s ok to get up, there may not be time to do an entire service for the entire cabin as we are getting too close to landing. Are you gonna pay for any medical bills if an injury is incurred? Cause once the company asks if the captain told you to sit down and you weren’t in your seat buckled up, it’s not gonna be the company either. It’s not some grand conspiracy with the pilots and FAs so the FAs can sit down and not do a service. I’ve heard too many horror stories or injuries occurring during turbulence. Not risking it, sorry.
Not true!!! Turbulence most of the time is unexpected if the pilots get notified that there may be turbulence the only way to insure the safety of the crew is to have them sit until it’s safe to get up or for the whole flight‼️
This is PATHETIC. People like you are the reason so many flights attendants feel pressured to do service during bad turbulence and get very badly injured. I’m one of them! If the pilot tells us to sit because of turbulence it’s either because the reports from other pilots or they can see the weather. Just because it’s moderate doesn’t mean anyone wants to take the risk to go down the aisle with a huge cart and then have the severe turbulence start. Is your Diet Coke really that important?
With all that time talking, I hope he still had time to share that amazing opportunity from Barclays…
By the way folks, I love giving praise when praise is due:
https://liveandletsfly.com/american-airlines-777-300er-business-class-review/
What kind of shoddy reporting is this? First and foremost AA5597 is not operated by American Airlines, it’s operated by PSA airlines therefore the person in question isn’t even an AA flight attendant, nor do they share the same Union. He is a PSA flight attendant represented by a different Union and was hired, trained, and is compensated and managed by a different airline, PSA Airlines – they also sign his paychecks every month, not AA.
So had you done even a little of your due diligence you should have changed your title to “PSA flight attendant upgrades his girlfriend …” but then that wouldn’t be clickbait enough for you right? Which is what this garbage of an “article” is – clickbait, since it isn’t even based on facts but rather on hearsay from some random person who could’ve made entire thing up.
This is a a sad clickbait article, and shoddy excuse for reporting with zero due diligence done. Why do you even pretend to be unbiased at this point? You’re an AA hater and everything you post regarding AA is one of the following: negative, derogatory and/or ignorant.
Do some research, don’t be ignorant, be better.
Same IP address “Alex”. Try Express VPN next time.
I’m using Nord VPN actually. Thanks for the quick response. Any comment on your clickbait “article” or changing the title to reflect the actual subject matter and perhaps a disclaimer letting your readers know that it’s based entirely on hearsay?
– Alex
Busted, lol
YEP–Alex, he’s actually that petty.
Also, an edit function would be fantastic, there are a couple of grammatical errors I’d like to fix.
On January 17 I flew American from Charlottesville to Birmingham. We were first class from Charlotte to Birmingham. I was surprised by how unprofessional the flight attendants were. Two spent most of the flight talking in really loud voices about employee benefits packages after achieving certain levels of service. They cared nothing about the passengers. Their manner was rude. Then adding insult to injury they spent more time than anything done for passengers trying to sell some mileage plan or credit card. The difference between American and Delta is huge. This article is totally consistent with our recent experience.
Gee, I feel so sorry for you…that you have to live your life being so put upon by these “servants” of the air. I wish we could rate your articles. How miserable your life must be to have to put up with such terrible service, day after day. Imagine how they must feel having to put up with high and mighty you and those of your ilk. Why don’t you just drive or take a train or boat. No one is forcing any of you to fly.
Get off your high horse. I certainly don’t think that way. It doesn’t excuse the conduct of the flight attendant now, does it?
If the “cross contamination” is so egregious, why do I routinely see parents take their screaming kids from first class on walks down the peasant aisles?
Who said anything about “cross contamination”? The issue is not about class, it is primarily about redness. Or do you defend loud and obnoxious people?
Sure wish you flew on one of my flights, different major carrier , UA. I love my job.
Contrary to your belief & others, I was paid quite well, mind you 36 yrs tenure.
I work F/C mostly, however, have worked Economy as well. I always made it a point to treat all passengers as if they were first class within guidelines of course.
If ever I witnessed loud disturbances I always discreetly handled situation. Doesn’t matter who you are and/ or status, if anyone is causing a disturbance it needs to be quashed. Of course, if I’m purser I can’t be everywhere at all times and must rely on the passenger call light. If a passenger doesn’t make it known, I’ll never know. The inconsiderate loud behavior is unacceptable on an airplane no matter who you are, where you’re seated and especially by an employee, regardless of travel status. Bottomline: If a passenger is uncomfortable with surroundings, please contact Purser. Thank you for your time.
Perhaps I’ve flown with you, before! Never had this issue on UA.
Unless it’s a crew member in uniform positioning for work (and space is available) there is no reason that any non rev should be in premium cabins. Period. It’s a liability to the airline in their behavior off duty and it’s more than obvious to others around them. Let them endure off duty what everyone else must. Perhaps they will appreciate the experience a bit more.
What are you talking about? Non-revs behave better than paying customers since misbehaving while non-revving is a fireable offense. This article is entirely based on hearsay, I’ve never seen a non-rev misbehave.
I have witnessed non revs off duty totally taking over cabins and turning them into social clubs. The most common are Intl F cabins on AA which is a dumping ground of non revs. Why? Because who would actually pay (I learned my lesson after years of it) for this? Fly on the DFW-LHR flight sometime and witness The F cabin which is a complete free for all.
I’m honestly sorry that you’ve had such terrible experiences with non-revs. I actually live in London, have been commuting to and from there for work for many years and can say that pre-COVID non-revs almost never got to sit in first/business class as these cabins were mostly full of upgrades/full fare customers.
I’ve never been on an international flight where the purser would ever allow non-revs to create a disturbance, as again, that would be a fireable offense for the non-rev, the airline is actually incredibly strict with employee travel rules.
I’m not trying to invalidate your experience, but again, I’ve personally never witnessed non-revs misbehaving like that and not be reprimanded by the working crew, I hope you reported the incident though, they company would have taken swift action in that particular instance.
So you’re calling him a liar or not? You’re contradicting your self. As he stated “I have witnessed” that’s translates to he has personally seen it happen with his own eyes. Hope that is clear enough for you.
Everyone needs to caaaaaaaaalm down. You make it sounds like this is the worst thing I’m the history of travel, worse than the titanic.
You know, I used to think that FAs were often lazy, and frequently rude, but Alex, Tony, and JPB have made me realize that they’re all really hard working professionals who aren’t just primarily there for my safety, but to make me feel welcome onboard too. Thanks for changing my perception, guys… I hope to see you and your girlfriend onboard soon!
Thanks “Jerry”.
I’m a consumate professional, definitely hope to see you AND your girlfriend onboard soon!
p.s. you’re welcome for the correction on Matthew’s shoddy “reporting”.
My name doesn’t need to be in quotation marks, it really is Jerry, and I only post under one name. I also can’t tell if you got my sarcasm or not. I guess I’m not as funny as I think I am.
Sorry for repeat posting. But just going to say after reading the comments (that are mostly from one person?) that it’s pretty clear the FA’s are in the driver’s seat these days. With staff shortages and subsequent pressure they are now just exercising their laziness to demand doing less and less. Even so much as attacking anyone who dares to question it (as we see here). I would hate to be the one trying to manage this from a corporate level. I can say it as I hate being a customer and witnessing it.
It was bad enough before Covid. But wow, now? Instead of a lesson in how to be better, instead of saying, “yes, we should focus more on quality as it will be more rewarding as a profession,” it’s just attack anyone that questions laziness or being unprofessional.
JPB, you are part of the problem. I suggest you grab a copy of Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance so as to realign your engine and feel the hum of quality.
Speaking for myself, I’m merely here correcting Matthew’s shoddy and misinformed “article”. Also, I’m not excusing anyone’s behavior, I merely pointed out that this article wasn’t written based on verifiable facts, but purely on hearsay and correcting the record that this Flight Attendant doesn’t work for American Airlines, he works for PSA Airlines and he is a member of an entirely different union, again, attempting to correct Matthew’s shoddy reporting.
If what has been written is proven to be true though, this PSA flight attendant should definitely be punished, no question about it. I don’t advocate for laziness and/or unprofessionalism, I’m merely (respectfully) pointing out the inaccuracies in Matthew’s reporting and the fact that this is a clickbait article.
If you are a regular reader here you will know that Matthew is pretty diligent at vetting out sources and stories. I am not saying he is perfect, but he has proven himself to be more than fair over the years. Sure, I like him, I might be one-sided, but I am also an a-hole at times and the first to call out b-sh$t. If anyone on the Boarding Area platform is honest and sincere, it’s Matthew. With that, you are welcome to counter. However, there is no doubt that the degradation of service has and will lead to more of these stories. And it might be better used as a time to reflect and ask yourself some hard questions as to career, quality, and professionalism.
I don’t doubt what you’re saying, but he made some pretty egregious mistakes (that have been proven)
and has yet to correct them. Starting from the title of the article, this FA doesn’t work for AA, but he kept the title for clickbait purposes as changing it wouldn’t generate him enough traffic.
I addressed this issue in my story explicitly. You must read beyond the headline. Call it what you want, but to the vast majority of passengers, a flight attendant wearing an AA uniform who operates an AA flight number on a plane with AA livery with AA-branded safety cards and napkins…is an AA flight attendant.
It’s not like mainline flight attendants are all saints either…I’ve flown in first class between JFK-LAX, also known as the non-rev cabin, that has included raucous conversation between NRSAs and FAs. But I’m much more forgiving of that than sneaking a passenger into first class, sitting down, and proceeding to ignore other passengers and even disturbing those around him instead of working whilst on duty.
I’d be interested in hearing what “duties” the FA was “neglecting”. Since, as she says, the flight was pretty empty.
Your source sounds like a Karen. If they were being too loud, say so. Would she have any recourse if it had NOT involved the FA? No.
Also the idea of “paying for a premium experience” in ANY domestic US F/C cabin is ridiculous. You get free bags, a bigger seat, and maybe some food & drinks. It’s not The Apartment on Etihad and never will be.
The flight attendants that I fondly recall are those that constantly monitored the cabin to ensure that glasses were kept full, even on an early morning flight.
Do you have ANY idea how many enemies you just made with this petty article? You are one DUMB dude. Best you probably bring your own food and drink if you’re recognized. Wow.
Are you advocating for this?
I’m an Executive Platinum member and would love to experience this.
Monitoring a cabin, yes. Glasses are kept full though? A stretch. You are not at a restaurant. They are there for YOUR safety and the safety of the aircraft. Not to monitor your drink fullness. I do not agree with the flight attendants actions, however I do believe we do forget the primary function of a flight attendant. Your fond flight memories should be those that are conducted seamlessly, timely and SAFE. Not based on how well your drinks & snacks have been monitored. Also, remember that flight attendants are humans, and are entitled to mistakes without being this far criticized. It makes the job that much more difficult, especially in this atmosphere. I think the article was just a little tone deaf for the times. Violence in the air is at an all time high, mental health of FAs is at an all time low. A little encouragement might go a long way, but hey, what do I know?
Matthew, please stop being part of the problem. Write about real issues that need attention – this is not a real issue it’s an article about someone that decided to be a victim and you gave them a bigger platform to do it from. It’s not journalism, it’s not helpful information – it’s a negative article. Maybe next time advise your “trusted source” on how to make her feelings known POLIETLY AND IN THE MOMENT THEY ARE HAPPENING. Give people a chance to correct a behavior they may not be aware is disturbing anyone. COMMUNICATE. Amazing what can happen when we talk -politely and genuinely – with each other.
Hey Mathew thank you for the hearsay article, definitely got my attention enough to write something down. But unfortunately our assumptions make and a$$ out of you and me. I applaud you for bringing something like this up but this Alex guy has a point PSA is unfortunately paid to look like AA. You can do better and add some meat to this story and dig deeper, and help to actually affect change. Definitely left disappointed after reading everything and how you have handled your own criticism in the article comments. Definitely also realized it was most definitely click bait. Good luck with the writing career… you want to write some solid writing piece, start looking up the regional airline pay contracts. Interview a couple of those FAs about working conditions at the regional level not the mainline levels.
As others have pointed out american airlines blah blah blah……. is a joke of airline blah blah blah…….i will continue to fly aa blah blah blah…… i will also continue to whine here blah blah blah……
See you tomorrow.
One of the reasons I attain Platinum Pro with AA each year is that when seats are available in the First Class cabin, flyers with status are on the top of the list. Learning that flight crew can reserve seats for their significant others or themselves is troublesome for me. Granted, I have no problem with FAs getting a seat in First Class if they are not working as a fringe benefit, but being able to hold two seats is just being greedy and unfair to the folks that travel for their status. Thanks for the information.
In this case, the FA did not steal an upgrade from anyone – the flight went out with open seats and he just grabbed one. But it just seems so strange he would not book his GF directly into first class.
Perhaps some of our AA FA commenters can help – is there an additional fee to list friends in first class versus main cabin?
There is no fee or anything preventing an employee from listing guests in first class. Thank you for pointing out that the seat wasn’t stolen from a customer waiting for an upgrade.
Yup.
Sure is an extra fee for a non reve from a regional to
upgrade. Even on an empty short flight.
A non rev will NEVER ever bump a paying or upgradeable passenger or prevent them getting the upgrade.
Non revs are the very last to be put into what ever seat is left. They can list for first, but the closest they will get to it is walking past it after paying passengers and upgrades are taken care of.
What is wrong with you people? Why does it bother everyone that the girl was upgraded and you to pay for the privilege? While I agree it’s unacceptable for the flight attendant to sit down and disrupt other passengers but you could have also said something. Seriously, first world problems!
I don’t think it bothers anyone that his GF was upgraded. What is concerning is the manner in which he upgraded her and how he proceeded to neglect his job duties during the flight he was being paid to work.
You witnessed NONE OF THIS !!
Matthew,
Respectfully, you are not the vast majority of passengers. . You write about our industry, so you should definitely know better and do your due diligence before writing your articles – the title is inaccurate clickbait and you know it. I’m not saying all mainline flight attendants are saints, I (along with others) have pointed out the inaccuracies in your article, starting from the first paragraph about the union, which shouldn’t even be in this article since they have nothing to do with, nor have any control over what PSA Airlines does and doesn’t do.
Your responses, (while appreciated) have been sarcastic and disrespectful. Fine, you trust your source even though it’s unverified, but correct the title and the other inaccuracies pointed out. You know what we’re saying is true (it’s easily verified), because as of right now your article is flat out misleading for the regular passenger.
Fix the title and if the mainline unions controlled what other airlines operating as American Eagle do, these outsourced carriers wouldn’t be a thing at all.
Ok Karen
This is a very Karen-esque point of view to have. You feel disrespected because your self-percieved privilege was ever so slightly encroached upon. So disrespected you’re hoping a person loses their job over it. That is pety and gross, and a decent human being would be ashamed of themselves. You really believe a single hour of lost sleep is something worthy of possibly ruining someone’s life over? Sit down and have a long, hard think about that.
I’m surprised no one has mentioned the stereotypical obvious…
Did your friend arrive in Tallahassee? And was he/she served during the course or the flight? It seems like some of you expect flight attendants to wait on you hand and foot. As a frequent traveler, I find that odd.
It’s an airplane not a Michelin star restaurant. I agree that the FAs behavior was unprofessional but the sense of entitlement in this thread is something.
It is a common practice for Non Rev passengers to automatically get a free bump up to first class if there is room. The FA’s girlfriend, parents and and children are all eligible as a benefit to working for the airline. Not just AA but any airline. Sorry you feel cheated, but as a travel journalist, I thought that maybe you understood this.
Have on a many occasions had a reserved exit row isle seat and arrived just in time to make the flight. Now I know when I the flight attendant says just grab any open seat it’s because the working attendant realizes they put their friend / off duty colleague in the seat that might be mine.
It usually isn’t because we moved anyone we know. A lot of times passengers may want to move and we let them (sometimes depending on weight and balance and airline policies) when we are told boarding is complete.
But not from economy class to first class, except in extremely rare cases.
You’re a travel writer! LOL! More like a F Karen!!!
I’m sure your job doesn’t come w perks either!
It’s people like you that ruin it for employees.
Suc it up butter up, stay in your lane or fly private. You’re only renting a seat for a short time.
How did you know the lady wasn’t an off duty FA w another airline ? Yes believe it or not, they too have perks!
I hope you sit in front of me on a flight . I’ll give you something to complain about and you want know it till you’re off the plane !!!
Wow, thanks for your comment. Do you work for American Airlines?
PSA FAs are not covered by the agreement AA reached with it’s own FAs. That is publicly available information which the author could have found with one 40 second call to PSA. Or American. But never let the FACTS get in the way of the good story.
A tertiary issue Paul. What do you think about the FA in question?
If it’s a “tertiary issue” why is it in the first line of your article…you know, the one the supposed sets up the premise for the rest of the article. Your whole basis for this cr4p article is WRONG. Different company, different union, different training, different management. So no, no one at AA is going to do anything to this FA. Further…seeing your responses here, all the FA has to do is to bring a copy of this into his manager. They’ll laugh, roll their eyes, and apologize for calling the FA in.
Absolutely the WORST “industry insider” article I’ve ever read–and I’ve read lots of terrible, inaccurate and lousy article from self-appointed experts like you. You’ve proven here just how out of touch with the industry you really are. And what a karen you are…..
As someone else suggested, how about writing about something that matters…like airline safety, Boeing’s aircraft delays, fares, airline frequent flyer programs, or fleets? Quit trying to get people fired –especially when you were not even there.
Thank you Paul
I’m calling BS. There’s not a straight male FA in the United States. Not one. I’ll die on this hill.
I wish I could upvote this
i am literally dating one. and i am a woman. if woman can work anywhere so can men. don’t be sexist.
I’m pretty sure you missed the sarcasm in this comment please try again
I have nothing at all to do with the travel industry. Thank goodness. People treat them (flight attendants, employees who help with boarding, etc) terribly. This article is ridiculous. Find something important to attack. Someone takes advantage of a perk of the job? Good for them. I find the writer’s attitude holier than thou. Plus, snitches get stitches. One hopes.
Sounds like your trusted source needs to go back and do proper research. Every airline has regional airlines under it and PSA is not American. They don’t have the same training, contract or Union as main line American Flight. Attendants. Furthermore what is telling us about it supposed to do maybe the person should have took up the time to research who the operating airline was for his flight before they started a smear campaign of American.
Oh Karen…
Oh bless your heart… perhaps there is something better to report about? Or maybe you just hate AA that much you jump at any opportunity to crap on them!? yAAwn
Just FYI, if it was a subsidiary airline, a Commuter airline, contracted by AA to fly the short haul routes, it
was NOT an American Airlines flight Attendant. Non-the-less, the behavior is inexcusable. And that being said,
ALL of the airlines are having extreme difficulty with “new hires” not understanding that they are AT WORK!
Get off of the phone!!!
You are absolutely correct, and the author should have fact checked this information prior to publication. All Flight Attendants are NOT the same! American Airlines Mainline FAs are trained by AA to a different standard than the Regionals. The smaller “Regional” Jets are owned and operated by other companies who hire and train their own FAs. They are very often younger, less experienced FAs than the Mainline Crews. And while AA always takes full responsibility for these Crews and their behavior, I really wish that all FAs weren’t all clumped together by the public. Mainline FAs who fly for any major Airline – including AA, United, Delta and Alaska – are all different than the FAs who work on the smaller Regionals. They may fly under the same banner, but their training is definitely NOT the same.
there is nothing wrong with upgrading your loved one family or friend on an empty flight mr klint. while i don’t agree with sitting and being loud the whole time with the stuff fa’s go through they deserve to get a break or help out their loved one to sit in first class. some people have never and will never experience first class so this would be a nice memory for them.
First world problems. At the end of the day does it really matter that they got an upgrade to a non full cabin. I mean come on. Ifvyou want those perks be a flight attendant or date one. SMH. Did you ever think about speaking up and saying hey I need to get some sleep here could you keep it down a little bit? Let’s not forget the first people to get bumped on a plane are the employees of the airlines.
My granddaughter, age 24, paid to pre-select her aisle seat on Spirit. Then a FA told her to move to the center so an airline employee could sit on the aisle. She moved as she was quite naive. When they landed, she texted me and asked if she could get her money back. She did get it back but have you ever???
I’ve been here. I took a flight on AA in April 2021. I was in business class. The entire 2.5 hours the two FAs chatted loudly. I could not sleep because they were standing over us. I politely asked the FA over, and advised that I was glad they were having a good time. But, could they be more quiet. She nodded. When she returned the other FA asked loudly, “What did she want?” She replied, “for us to be quiet.” They then burst out laughing and continued to be loud. I wrote a complaint to AA and received a reply that they were sorry for my inconvenience and they hoped I’d fly again and have a better experience. At the end of the email it said it was illegal to share the email with anyone. Listen. If you use these perks, use them with class. All of us in Business Class are not on a company’s dime. We scrimped and saved for our seat too. Have some respect for those of us who also work hard every day, wait two years to take a trip and we just want a pleasant experience we paid for. Enjoy your family but be mindful of others.
I dated a FA before, from British Airways. I would go on long haul international.trips with them, non-rev, and if space was available I’d always get first, if not business.
But absolute discretion was required. Had to dress smart, like I belonged in the cabin with $8000 seats, and if he came to visit me up in first, it was a quick quiet hello every few hours on his break. This kind of behavior at AA would have absolutely not been tolerated and would have ended up in disciplinary action. This was made very clear.
This was comical! Definitely lots of AA Flight attendants nerves was touched because they know its a real story and they know its a quite common occurrence extended to them with the blessing of the flight pursuer. Personally, I don’t care, it really don’t bother me and I don’t see an issue with it. Im not sure why they are becoming so defensive and deflecting to make the story appear to be false.
As an Executive Platinum member, the reality is service at American is getting worse by the seconds, thats a fact! and the Flight attendants are a big part of the customer service experience free fall thats a fact! Now this is not all Flight Attendants and not even a majority, but it surely is a significant number. As of late, they are inattentive, they don’t even recognize top-tier customers, they dont want to do service, but they want to walk up and down the aisle with Aviator applications. I guess the applications protects them from Covid-19. who knows. They have a more than ever power trip since Covid-19. 75% of the people taken of these planes because of mask is a result of the flight attendants power trip and being overzealous, thats a fact! Of course that otger 25%, well they actually deserve what they got.
Then there is leadership, who seems not to be concerned about the customer experience. When you hear the comments Vasu Raja makes it becomes quite evident why customer experience is in a free fall. It also makes it quite appeaeant as to the possible reason Rick Elieson quit and left. Of course they’ll probably clean up the internal fall out that was the result of his departure, but sensible people can only draw conclusions it was probably because of the announcement of the biggest disaster of AA history: Loyalty Points. American Airlines announced this foolish disloyal to actual loyal customers scheme they have the audacity to call Loyalty Points, based on remarks by Vasu, he clearly believes its the best thing since slice bread. I beg to differ. I think it’s an insult to actual loyal, butt on the metal customers. AA, Citi and Barclay’s in making no money from the people who will actually rack up loyalty points just from credit card spend that’s a fact!
AA has taken the position, probably a US Air model, because definitely not legacy, that who cares about customers-they believe loyalty is a one streak evident of Loyalty Points, the new, disastrous and insulting elite status qualification scheme.
Someone said break up all these airlines and reform the airlines before merger, boy i wish AA could break away from the shackles of US Airways management – it’s the central reason why AA is so horrible. We have the worst seats in business class now, they took out all the inflight screens, the onboard service is trash, Ifvit was up these guys they probably wontt mind outfitting all the planes with lawn chairs.
Bottom line the story is very true and it commonly occurs. Is it a big deal? As An EP, absolutely not; who cares, its the perks of the job. We all enjoy perks of our jobs. The more pressing issue is the immediate dissolving of Loyalty Points and the immediate fixing of the overall customer experience.
So FAs no need to be defensive over your perks, we just ask for a better inflight experience.
Ummmm….there is no Purser on a CRJ or at PSA Airlines. 😉
I can’t believe you literally have likely ruined someone’s career due to this hearsay BS… what sort of petty small person vomits up hearsay like this ?
If someone you trust tells you something, do you dismiss it as false simply because you were not there?
And if the story isn’t true (but let’s face it, we all know it’s true or there would not be so much emotion in the comments section), the FA has nothing to worry about.
Right? I just keep thinking someone lost their job because he decided to have a moment to laugh on a half full flight— why did this even make the news?
Just a thought as a person who only flys first class… I honestly feel terrible for flight attendants over the past few years. Layoffs, verbal abuse, and physical altercations are in the news almost daily. I understand if it was a 6 hour plus flight, but 90 minutes? Has anyone else ever laughed too loud out work, or had too much fun on a business dinner? I know I’m guilty. This flight attendant might have needed the laughter after what he’s endured over the past few years. Put your noise canceling headphones in if you’re so incredibly inconvenienced, and look for the good. You’re truly fortunate to be someone who can fly first class. Maybe that was the girls first and only time.
Everyone has struggled the past two years. Everyone has had a hell trying to do their job. Most of us still do it. Most of us don’t do less as a result. In fact, most of us are having to do more now.
However, this is a history and culture amongst FA’s extending back before Covid. More pre-9/11. Now it’s even worse. Complete disrespect for job, appearance, quality etc. It’s a free for all to do as little and act entitled because, boo hoo. Sorry but not sorry. I spent 300 days traveling to keep my business afloat last year. I don’t have a union working for me to assure I can do as little as possible.
This post and FA rants in the comments. Wow. It’s no wonder U.S. flight attendants are the laughing stock of the rest of the world.
Hi Stuart,
I’m so very sorry you’ve had a crappy experience on ALL of your flights over the last 300 days. You are ABSOLUTELY correct. As a 38 year flight attendant I have had a history of doing as little as possible on my job, my appearance has gone by the wayside and I totally disrespect the job I do. The only reason I stay is to get away from my husband and family. I also totally agree with all those above that think airline employees shouldn’t have free tickets and seats up front. I think flight attendants are so horrible they should be in cargo. I just showed this article to my dad who is a retired 777 Captain. Laughed his butt off. He of course reminded me who I am, where I come from, my Fabulous work ethic he raised me to have and the job that I do. Now that I’ve acknowledged your ridiculous and laughable statement about ALL flight attendants, I’ll get back to my coffee and not waste another precious minute of my Wonderful life on all the keyboard cowboys on here. Thanks for the laugh.
Mr Klint, you know better. The next time I’m sitting next to an American Airlines flight attendant that was hired by PSA, Envoy, Mesa, etc. in my recurrent training class I’ll give you a call. You’ll be waiting forever and you darn well know it.
Read the comments in this post (and the one that follows) from people flying AA, United etc. Perhaps you have a complete disconnect as to what is work ethic and quality? It’s very clear that the vast majority find the attitudes, service level, and overall pride in U.S. FA’s as being dismal. But, according to you, everything is world class. It’s not. I suggest you fly European or Asian carriers in Premium classes and see why, as I said, you are all the laughing stock of most of the world.
You may be an outlier, there are some. But it’s more than clear that your customers, including me, find the overall level of laziness, attitude, and complete lack of self pride in your work to be more than apparent on a daily basis. Your own willingness to think otherwise is the very root of the problem. Try harder.
Stu, are you still here? I see you’ve been busy at the keyboard. I’m sure the incident happened. I fly along side people that are exactly what you described. The problem I have with you is that you have labeled ALL flight attendants in this category. I am definitely not an outlier as you have suggested. I have no idea what you do for a living but I do know that you also have people in your profession that are idiots and a-holes. There isn’t a profession in the World that doesn’t have these people floating around, even yours. Don’t tell me you’re not in customer service. Every profession is customer service in some way or another. My next door neighbor is a trauma surgeon. He’s in customer service. Stu, life is so short. I love social media but I also hate it. It really helps people in some ways but in other ways it makes people feel bad about themselves. You really could make a difference in someone’s life by putting a smile on your face and NOT putting everyone that works in a certain profession in the same category. I know nothing about you and you know nothing about me but I do hope you have a really nice day.
What a Karen! What an absolute trash article. Now off to my Google feed settings to ensure this garbage never ends up in my feed again.
Your loss Dan!
And you should really not use the word “Karen” in vain…
https://liveandletsfly.com/flight-attendant-karen/
This article is pure trash, maybe you should do your DD before posting this so called story. Your “trusted source” is a lie. Must be great to pick on flight attendants that doesn’t even have a designated break to eat let alone time to crap in a 12 hour day.
First, I did my DD and trust the source.
Second, if you hate your job so much why don’t you quit? It’s a great time to switch careers in the USA. Go for it! We won’t miss the bitterness.
Wish I could like this Twice. The nerve of him with this trash article doing the Very thing he wants the FA fired for….JUST TALKING
Yeah exactly! This article and the above customer just sound like overprivileged classists complaining about people enjoying themselves. As the passenger said the flight was only 90 minutes and relatively empty, his much attending actually needed to be done? Would this really have been the different if the two people talking were both paying passengers or are they just mad that both of them paid nothing to sit there? Author clearly has nothing better to write about.
Am I the only who thought a male flight attendant having a girlfriend was a typo?
Lol
Honestly just give passengers a small paper bag with the snack items and bottled water as they’re about to board and do away what flight attendants all together. Passengers can drink before or after they land. If they want a substantial meal they can pay for it and have it handed to them in a box before they board. What that’s much of the safety information automated before takeoff that leaves flight attendants to serve alcohol and harass passengers to keep masks over nose both of which passengers can easily do without. Pass the savings on to people that buy the tickets.
I have had this experience at least three times. Once coming back from London when the American Airlines flight attendant upgraded her friend and then sat with her the entire time laughing , hooting and yelling and never once checking on us in first class. I was too afraid to say anything and just excepted what it was. I had saved my money to upgrade to first class and I am not wealthy. It was disappointing and sad, but I felt intimidated and wouldn’t complain. I also felt like I was held hostage. They have so much power and most of us are afraid to complain because we don’t want to be seen as aggressive. I wish they were more professional, and valued how much money we spend, Because not all of us are wealthy.
Are you a travel blog or a tabloid? Think about it if you want to be taken seriously
If this happens in my airline, they would let the upgrader pay the full fare.
I just wasted minutes of sweet rest reading a false AA complaint over a Non-AA FA TALKING to a friend on a plane!! You actually want a person to be FIRED and lose their livelihood for this?? Was it because he was talking to a woman in FC or just talking….or having the nerve to sit down ? Waste of time. FIND A HOBBY!
Im a flight attendant myself, and while the flight attendant shouldnt have been distruptive and loud, don’t be upset because somone else got the handout that you wanted. Want perks? Be a flight attendant or in this case, know one. Want to sit in first class? Pay for it, simple as that. At the end of the day its the flight attendants who run the cabin, not you and they can upgrade who they see fit, and yes if caught they will gladly accept the consequences. I swear some of you in these comments are literally jealous of the flight attendant perks, and are probably mad because you never became one yourself lol. Unless someone is directly bothering or putting their hands on you, grow up, mind your business and stay in your lane when you travel. Happy flying and put your shoes on when you use the lavatory, you filthy animals.
Why don’t all FA’s take Jason’s advice–if you want to sit up front PAY FOR IT. Yourself. The very idea that a “non-rev” feels entitled that they should be upgraded to first or business class over any PAYING customer, even if the lowest fare on the plane, is enlightening. Tells me what they really think of their paying customers.
Matthew, first off, I want to let you know I have been following your blog for quite some time now.
Upon stumbling your article. I told my self whoa the title was very catchy. You got my undivided attention. That’s a success!
I hope you own up to your missed information and live up to the integrity of being a “reliable” and “credible” writer. Really disappointing.
It does show you have some following. Find within yourself that you are not perfect as everybody is. It is a lot easier to accept that you misrepresented yourself. I hope this serves as one big and hard lesson.
I agree with some people here. Most regional FAs are getting paid between 18-24 grand a year. Please do not deprive them or their loved ones who rarely non rev of an opportunity to take a more comfortable seat. You don’t know the other side of the story. What if that is his girlfriend’s graduation trip home, or a birthday? Do not be heartless, These airlines already are paying them meager. At least let them use their privilege. If you want to write responsibly, please interview regional FAs. You’ll be amazed at their struggles. You might buy them a cup of coffee or a meal,
So shouldn’t airline employees and their pass riders get treated if there are seats available? I’m sure all the people that were supposed to get upgraded, did. Every company has perks. I’m sure this happened, but is it necessary to post such a trivial thing? Did your “friend” ask them to keep the noise down? Did he ask them to go to the back? If so, there’s a bit of a problem, but do You think this incident was worth getting someone fired, because since it was made PUBLIC, He probably was! Such a shame they have to deal with so much BS with unruly pax due to covid and even pre-covid and others think they deserve their choice of meals because their company paid for a seat on the airplane? People need to remember that an airline is a means of transportation to get you from point A to point B, the rest are all amenities, yet these Flt Attendants have to deal with all this nonsense and have to force a smile because these times aren’t good for all of them. There are many of them that were furloughed and had Families to care for so I’ m glad they had the privilege and opportunity to have their friend sit upfront. Wouldn’t You do the same? Blah blah. Just a waste of energy. People are dieing in this world and you’re worried about a 90 min flight of friendly conversation? Would it have been better to have included him in it? Tell your “source”, next time he flies and it happens again, because I’m sure it will, to have the balls to tell them to keep the noise down or SUCK IT UP! All these sites are for complainers. And so tacky with the name calling. It happens with every job and establishment, unless of course you’re in India, Japan, and Korea because their work ethics are very different. Might be easier to fly privately. Just saying. Happy 2022. Let this world be free of negativity. Live in others’ shoes, if even for a day. ❤ Hug someone everyday. It’ll make You kinder and happier
This comment section was crazy. All you Karen’s and Ken’s need to settle down, you’re the real manace and downfall to how our society has been the last 10 years…rambling and complainjng aboout anything at all. Reading this is beyond embarrassing, what a trash article.
After reading all the snarky comments and remarks from OP (who doesn’t know what happened in the first place) and some others here.
I will happily say that I hope this guy and his girlfriend are here reading this, laughing all the way to their next flight, I hope his union rep and flight service manager take him in to discuss this incident, and I hope they leave in tears laughing at some of y’all’s BS comments.
Petty AF.
They can fly for free. Not while they’re working.
On what planet was this worth writing about?
Flight Attendant here! I can understand why someone would be frustrated over this. It’s also not allowed. I’ve moved non revs up to business sometimes but I never go and chat with them the whole flight obnoxiously. I think some of the people commenting are forgetting people pay a lot of extra money for these seats. If I’m gonna sit and chat loudly I do it in the back few rows on empty flights so I’m not bothering anyone
Hope that flight attendant is fired or at the least reprimanded. Abuse of your authority as a FA. So what’s,the point of paying for a first class ticket if you are not going to enjoy the experience due to the illegal actions of the FA.
Sorry, I’m a little confuse. How was the passenger affected by the FA sitting down? She didn’t get her snacks fast enough. That’s why he spoke to the other FA To cover him, so Karen could get her snack. Karen he’s complaining to get something for free. If the company takes away the perks, there wouldn’t be any more FA. They don’t make a lot of money, they do it mainly for the parks.
It seems the “expresses” of the airline world are here to and continue to sully the name of their parent company.
Think impaired cabin crew, guitars, ‘doctors’ and events that got a lot of press actually happened on express carriers but the parent company takes the hit.
That’s because regional flight attendants are paid a fraction of what mainline flight attendants are paid
As an Airline Employee I am as disgusted by the behavior of these two FAs on the DCA-TLH flight as some of the comments that try to paint All AA FAs with one brush stroke as lazy and lacking any service standards. Both of these PSA FAs involved on this flight need to be called In and more than likely terminated for their onboard nonsense. The Customer (Passenger) isn’t necessarily right all the time but when you see Great Service LET THE COMPANY KNOW via an email/tweet or phone call….when You see poor service, the “Sitters” and bad actors LET THE COMPANY KNOW…….the longer you look away and shake your head, Nothing will change. These ‘Bad Actors’ are not a pleasure to be around on the ground and sure as hell not in the air. This applies to All Airlines, not just AA.
Matthew Klint, PSA is not American Airlines. It’s a third party. Please correct your headline for accuracy.
Sorry, I’m a little confused. How was the passenger affected by the FA sitting down? She didn’t get her snacks fast enough. That’s why he spoke to the other FA To cover him, so Karen could get her snack. Karen he’s complaining to get something for free. If the company takes away the perks, there wouldn’t be any more FA. They don’t make a lot of money, they do it mainly for the parks.
FYI
Regional flight attendants have to BUY their flight benefits on AA.
Whether a second, Third or a fourth party, since American Airlines Contracted with them, American Airlines is solely responsible for whatever unacceptable activity occurs on and off the plane, involving American Airline employee. period. I have had so many bad experiences with American Airlines lately, that I have decided to completely stop flying American.
The most shocking thing about this incident is to discover there is a straight male AA flight attendant.
If people would mind their own business over trivial things this world would be a better place. I’m happy for you that you dont have bigger problems to deal with.
You should at least ensure you’re writing factual articles. The PSA FA union and AA FA union are completely different, you shouldn’t insinuate that they’re somehow connected because they’re most certainly not. No matter how it looks from your myopic viewpoint of the airline biz, a PSA FA is NOT the same as an AA FA. They simply work for an airline that has AA branding and just happen to be owned by the same parent company that owns American Airlines… They do the same job for a lot less money and benefits, but they’re not employees of AA. Just like those who work for Mesa, Skywest, etc. aren’t employees of AA. Also, employees and their dependents are often offered premium upgrades after the door closes. I’m not sure if this one was “legal” but their girlfriend was probably a registered companion on their travel benefits. Heck, I can speculate just like you did throughout this entire article and say they could’ve even been a fellow employee with their own benefits!
Hey Matthew, I’m sure you know that the actual readers of your site see through the 150+ comments on here and hope this traffic is making you some money! This comment section has the ramblings of an article about India, Pakistan, or China.
Yes, a lot of traffic on this one and it strikes me as so telling (and sad) that the FAs want to focus on AA vs. PSA than address the issue itself, which makes me think it goes on all the time.
As far as I am concerned, while AA has managed to separate mainline and Eagle employees in a way to save millions in annual labor cost, they still fly for AA and work for AA. I’m not willing to stipulate that only mainline employees are “real” AA employees…
While I can say I do not condone the actions of this fellow regional FA, I think it’s more sad how the mainline FA’s are very quick to be completely divisive between mainline and their regional counter parts as they are “mainline” and not the same as us penny FA’s. I know many regional flight attendants that take complete pride in their jobs and perform outstanding service on their flights and it is very true what you say, people can only see what is being portrayed. We really are no different from them, except for the pay, and between contracts… well let’s just say we put up with far more crap than they have to. In fact they are the only ones who see regionals as different from themselves and often Lower standards than they supposedly are (highly debatable as I’ve seen uniform/appearance standards constantly NOT being adhered to from the shiny “standard”so called mainline FA’s… )
Only AA employees are paid and treated like AA employees.
Regionals are a far different world.
What’s shocking to me as a regular reader of LALF is that there is more engagement on this post than many more consequential posts. And what’s clear from the comments is that they’re not from people who read his posts regularly. So clearly this was shared widely within FA communities and the “outrage” there is strong, not to the behavior, but to Matthew calling it out. On the one hand, I have some empathy for FA’s who have to deal with the rise of completely unacceptable behavior from unseasoned travelers. But you’re losing me when you come here to bash a blogger with a history of reasoned commentary and a valid observation about poor service. Fine to argue with his conclusions, but the wholesale attacks only contribute to the negative perceptions people are having about those who provide onboard service right now (whether those perceptions are fair or not).
Thanks for your comment. I’m not worried about all the negative comments here. I am worried for American Airlines, because I’ve never seen such a group of self-entitled employees. I hope Robert Isom really cracks down and is able to change hearts and minds from bitter entitlement to conscientious service.
What you should be worried about is the wages those regional flight attendants are making while AA is making billions. They make near poverty level
This merits a 5 star who gives a flying fagoo? Trying to sleep on a 90 minute flight on a commuter is unrealistic. You got your bag of snackage, a drink and arrived safe and on time but that’s not good enough for your entitled self. Give me a break! Do you want some cheese with that whine? Next time save your self the aggravation and drive that 400 miles.
Here. Write about this. But do some research first.
And don’t fool yourself–the ONLY reason this article got as much attention as it did is because how outrageous, inaccurate and petty it is.
Now do something useful….investigate and write a decent article about this: https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/boeing-reports-a-net-loss-in-2021-as-the-cost-of-the-787-delivery-halt-soars-to-5-5-billion/
You mean how outrageous, inaccurate and petty flight attendants in the U.S. are? I think that’s what you mean. I say this given most of the comments here are FA’s attempting to paint themselves as gods and goddesses of service. And somehow entitled to laziness. Meanwhile, the customers you are paid to service are in fact appalled at it all. And have been for years.
I will defend you in one way only, the executive teams have not exactly given you much to be proud of. But they also let you walk all over them. It’s a two way street that in the end makes the customer the victim over and over.
If you actually cared about your job and had pride in your work you would see that the rest of the world laughs at you as you traipse through the airports with your ugly clog shoes and clunky demeanor demanding LESS WORK, MORE PAY, SHUT UP CUSTOMERS! Meanwhile JAL, LH Group, Air France, etc FA’s walk by rolling their eyes and laughing at you.
Stu,
I don’t suppose you’ve ever worked as a flight attendant or even know one.
International flight attendants fly 1 flight over to the US. Their lay may be 30 hours or more.They have a rest area and a good portion of the time the passengers are sleeping after service.
Domestic flight attendant may work up to 6 flights a day and can be scheduled to 14 hour duty days that can be extended to 16. A lay over of 10 hours that starts 15 minutes after the aircraft doors are opened.
The flight attendant still has passengers on board, as they are looking for left items and trying to leave themselves. The clock on their 10 hour rest has started and they aren’t even off the plane. They may have 4 or even 6 days in a row like that.
So if your flight attendant doesn’t look like the polished European model and more like a janitor, please understand their life and responsibilities. Especially in today’s landscape as they go to work wondering if some drunk is going to attack them for doing what the airlines require of them.
Most GAs are hardworking and professional.
There is a significant minority that’s lazy, entitled, rude and completely unfit to work directly with customers.
The second category shows up here every day.
Do you realize the schedule and grind of many of your customer’s when they travel? What others are doing and enduring as well? Sure, many of us make much more money than a domestic FA, but we also deal with outrageous stress in relation to negotiations, clients etc. 24/7. Guess what, in my case I am still polished, take pride, and have a good attitude. It’s that very approach that allows me to love what I am doing and be happy at it despite the endless time zones, eating on the run, working the phones until 1 in the morning, sleeping five hours, and doing it again. Pride=Quality=Happiness. Period.
Further to your explanation, the reality is that domestic mainline FA’s are typically a bit better in attitude than International given they are often more junior and less jaded. Not always, but often. Your schedules for Intl. are no different whatsoever from the foreign carriers that provide exceptional service and product day in and day out. Emirates, whose FA’s are some of the best in the world, could be argued as having the most grueling schedule there is. Might they complain in private and work to get better conditions, sure. But it never reflects in their presentation. Or the quality and pride in their job as to interaction with the public. And you never hear them complaining that they want to give their customers less so as to make their jobs easier. Which is what U.S. flight attendants do and want. No, their issues will typically be regarding rest periods, schedules, pay etc. Areas that do not impact customers directly or are an attempt at having more galley gossip time.
Honestly, if the job is so bad, the life is so horrid as you try and paint, why are you doing it? I imagine there are plenty of young gentlemen and women working in Starbucks right now, providing smiles and great service each day, that would be happy for the job and benefits you have. In the meantime, you can find something that fulfills you and offers you a better opportunity as to taking pride in your work. Not sure if you noticed, but there are plenty hiring today in other sectors.
I am certain you are seeing from the sentiments here and in other blogs that we are no longer buying your complaints as customers. We are tired of it. You are getting no more sympathy. We empathized after 9/11, we supported changes as bad as they were and dealt with everything together. Yet, reading the comments of the FA’s here there is clearly a disconnect in your even understanding how bad it’s become since – and how your highest spend customers are disgusted at the state of service and the complete lack of care (in themselves and others) by front line employees at U.S. airlines.
It’s very unfortunate, that your source got it wrong because it was a customer upgrade, not a free employee upgrade.
Does it really mater? And say it was a customer upgrade…isn’t that even worse?
The point is not just the unauthorized upgrade, but especially what happened AFTER.
You wrote a whole article on hearsay. It’s very telling that “someone you trust” is reason enough to write this article.
Yes, unfortunately we cannot only base our writing upon first-hand experience.That’s the way the world works.
It’s a little alarming you’re even hoping to make an example out of this FA. Try minding your own business.
This is my business. I want AA to do well – it’s good for aviation and good for the consumers. I could not care less about a flight attendant who neglects his duty onboard.
I switched from American Airlines to Delta because of repeated bad service with no action on their part. It sounds like things have not changed, only gotten worse. I always fly First Class for the service and the peace and quit, if someone had pulled a stunt like that, I would have said something to them like, Shut-up and get a room.
Why not ask the “offenders” to lower volume of their voices ???
People complain too much .
Bruh do you need a hug?
So what? It was a short and slow flight. Let the poor flight attendant have some joy for a few minutes. Yes, he was there to work, so what? We’re all guilty of slacking at work once in awhile.
This article, the author and the source for the article are the definition of entitlement.
We all had this one friend who drove like a maniac and when he/she heard you complain at the end of the ride, they would say “…but, did you die!?!”, as their way of saying be glad you still got to your destination in one piece.
That’s exactly how I feel when I fly any American-based airlines. Their job is to make money off you and as long as they get you to your destination in one piece, they feel they accomplished their mission. All ancillary things like customer service or member experience are just a fluke.
Author is a giant pussy, suck it up loser. People talk on flights, big deal.
Weather it be first class or coach people should keep there voices down we ALLpay way too much for tickets now. I was recently on a flight from New York to orlando and this child screamed the whole flight. I was grieving my dad who had passed a few days before and just wanted to sleep but could not. Keep you voices down and you kids quiet….
Wow Karen – you are making way too much of this. You are the reason the rest of us have to put up with grumpy service people. After trying to satisfy entitled people like you it’s no wonder that they’re worn out.
Every one of you who is attacking the author instead of the flight attendant in question are part of the problem. Everyone sees it outside your circle jerk. Wake up!
So Karen said they should have done this in the “back of the plane” … In other words: I’m first class and entitled— so let coach deal with it!
Karen, please realize we are in a pandemic and have more things to deal with AND I agree with the other rely: Go home and sleep! Grow up! I hope the author doesn’t publish these type of silly “stories” again.
Where is Joe Chivas when I need him?
Lol! This is lost though on most of the people here for this post. Seriously though, where is he?
As for whether this was an AA flight attendant, if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck…it is a duck. No one cares if it was Envoy except for lazy flight attendants trying to cover their butts.
If it was PSA flight…it was a PSA flight attendant.
Nothing but the name on the aircraft is American. Except for the napkins and anything with an American logo.
That flight attendant isn’t paid by American or receives any type of American monetary benefits, health care or the like from American. Understand how regional flight attendants are treated and you’ll understand the service you received.
Regional airlines that are contracted by mainline airlines and negotiate price per seat. It is a completely separate entity even though you look at the plane and think it may be American. Often getting the aircraft catered correctly is a unnecessary challenge.
It seems that the root of what the author takes issue to isn’t that they were enjoying each other’s company. But that:
1) employees are not allowed to enjoy perks, privileges, or their shift for as long as they’re clocked in
2) that someone knew someone and got to enjoy a section that someone else would’ve had to pay for
3) that there is some rule that you can’t enjoy someone’s company beyond a whisper
Unfortunately for the author, you will continue to be upset and disappointed because people WANT yo enjoy themselves at work. If the FA was throwing a party on the plain that’s one thing, but to witness someone share their perks and privileges when you didn’t get to is not too shy of jealousy. This article making it’s way to my Google news feed is more concerning.
I assume you also get upset when they let certain people in the club without having to wait or pay but then YOU have to wait and fork over the $20 cover charge.
What furthers my point and really shows how you validate classism is that you said they should’ve gone to the back of the plain and enjoy each other’s company. So, what are you saying? What does it matter that they are at one end of the plane or the other? Is first class for only quiet people? And let’s take this into context, were they loud like they were at a VIP section in downtown LA or loud because you wanted it to be quieter than a babies breath? It’s the privileged life mentality that further puts service workers to NOT want to return to work and when they/we do, we won’t take your shit.
I am hoping on your next flight that there’s a raging baby sitting in the nearest coach seat next to first class lol
American made my wife and I set outside on concrete benches for 8 hours on Maui, after we had flown into Maui from Oahu to recover our luggage from another carrier. Eventually there were three mo couples that joined us with the same set of circumstances. No food, two soda machines were all we had. I asked an American customer service lady if they had any water for us
And she said she was not allowed to hand out water. We made it back to Tampa the next day but never will we fly American again.
I sat on a plane yesterday where the 2 passengers behind me talked in very loud voices for the entire flight including the safety demonstration, announcements and even when their drinks order was being taken. Flight attentendents don’t care anymore because many passengers don’t show them much respect. It has got a pretty low point. Meanwhile the airlines want to pay them pennies.
Unbelievable. You can report to the airline. The flight attendant and his gf’s behavior can be seen as stealing.
Someone always has to complain. You r in a public area and there are going to be crying babies, loud people and all sorts of noise. If that bothers you buy some ANC headsets. The FA was not doing his job? What about you do your job and write something worth reading!
Here is someone well suited to work at America West.
It was a 90 minute flight. What do you expect the FA’s to be doing for the entire 70 min after the snack and beverage service? Scrubbing the floors with a toothbrush or feeding the first class grapes that they are also expected to hand pick from the orchard. If your significant other was an FA you would also be traveling with them at every chance you got and doing the exact same thing this FA did if a first class seat was open.
Yeah!!! You tell them Gabrielle!!!
So insensitive of these pesky customers. I mean, he upgraded all the other passengers before upgrading his gf, right?
Right?
RIGHT????
Seems we have a troll.
How did the pax know that the flight attendant was working? He could of been DEADHEADING ,NON REV ,Get the facts !
Ok. I did not read any comments, but I did read the story and I just want to say, mind your own business. Do you work in customer service? I have for the last 30 years and I can tell you, the last 2 have made me loose compassion and respect for people. He is a is fellow human being, not your servant. He is there for your safety, not your entitlement. My roommate is a flight attendant, and I am a former flight attendant. We both have had enough.. I am not sure what happened to people’s compassion, But we are burnt out.. Flight attendants are there for your safety, not to entertain you. I am sure that this guy did all of his duties, and and had his girlfriend not been there he would have just sat in his seat and done nothing. The nerve of you taddling on him. Like a child, He did nothing wrong. Did you feel neglected, did you miss anything, Were you offended by his laughter? Did you not get your warmed nuts fast enough? I find it a embarrassing you would write an article about your entitlement. Did you not have your needs met? Did you not get from point A to B fast enough? Did you not have a bigger seat? Had it been another customer would you have been so offended? Mind your own business. He did nothing wrong, you said the flight was empty. Sounds like he did his job and you were just being entitled. Flight attendants are there for your safety, They give you drinks as a courtesy. I am more than confident that he did his job.. People have become too entitled.. shame on you. Mind your own business. And better yet, maybe go deeper and figure out why other people’s happiness offend you so much?
Yeah totally it’s not like the FA is the being paid to do a job or anything. But hey he’s a human being he should do whatever he wants! Great take!
Grumpy people complaining about happy people. Plane is empty no service to provide, and joy is too loud for grumpy writer. Gonna stick to the points guy stories.
Story could have just as easily been about the grumpy karen who agreed with you hating on happiness.
I’ve been flying AA for the past year as an Executive Platinum member and I have had great experiences! However, I feel they are being lazy to stop second drink service. We are all in an air tight airplane wearing mask, how is one more drink going to effect anything?! Come on American!
That FA was hired to not only do customer service. As well as for the SAFETY of the flying public. If an INFLIGHT emergency had occurred, I doubt he could have made it back to his area of RESPONSIBILITY in time. He therefore endangered every single passenger on that plane. Accountability needs to be upheld. This individual either needs to correct his downfalls or get a different job. This was a BLATANT SAFETY VIOLATION that needs to be addressed. It may just be his life he saves.
Wow, you have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about…nobodies safety was endangered sweetheart.
Butbutbutbut…..covid!!! How dare you point a finger at a FA? Don’t you know there’s a pandemic going, you insensitive entitled customer???
/s, if that wasn’t obvious.
Also, you spelled America West wrong in the entire post.
While American Airlines continues to hire younger Flight attendants by the bus loads…
… safety , professionalism & maturity will not be top priorities .
Hmmm… so nobody ever uses perks from work on their loved ones?.. This country is full of sensitive people that can’t mind their own business.
Way to oversimplify the matter, Art.
considering your company paid your ticket. sit back and relax.
2. PSA FAs make 20 per flt hr or less. you got your drink, you put your airpods in and arrived safely, you’re welcome.
3 DC to TLH a bit over an hr flt. don’t stress.
Company didn’t pay my ticket. Never had. And I wasn’t the traveler.
This happens daily!
I frequently fly from HSV to DFW and many times I see the black flight attendants move other black passengers to first class. I am sure it also happens with white attendants and white passengers as well.
Not a big deal with all the other problems this world is dealing with right now.
Racism has entered the chat.
Wow. Just more proof of the Harvard Study that proves that the more money people make, the less empathy the rest of us enjoy.
Not only does your First Class seat never come with a promise of sleep, but you have to ruin it for All the people with this crappy paying job. What is wrong with you?
You think that nobody but the the guy with money counts. Shame on you.
Oh man! What a traumatic experience. How dare those peasants mingle among the aristocrats!
Hey all you dumb twats calling this person entitled, when you pay at least a $100+more for a 1st class ticket, you have a right to be entitled. So, the peanut gallery can stfu. Quit talking so stupid! What a bunch a freaks. Cuckooo Regardless, the FA needed to get their arse up and freaking work.
Way to exemplify entitlement. You finally earn an ‘A’ money didn’t buy
Sounds like a liberal reporter I that lives in LA is upset that the peasants get a flight upgrade. Complete trash!!! This guy should be boycotted for being a fony. Being military I have gotten upgraded for free in fight so that’s not de rules! And really a 90 minutes fight! So your complaining about your guy sitting down for approximately 20 minutes as take off and landing take up almost an hour. GET A LIFE AND STOP COMPLAINING!!
It’s spelled phony.
Good comeback Matt. Your use of spellcheck totally nullifies his credible comment that you are a small minded dipsh!t.
Sure George. Appreciate your feedback.
What wrong Matt. Did I hurt your feelings lol you’re right with the spelling. Good catch and O don’t join the debate team your comebacks are as weak as a little baby and sound about the same. You just showed yourself to be exactly what you are a “fony” liberal lol. Please teacher grade my Grammer and spelling. And next time respond to the content instead of crying.
Everyone that has a job enjoys perks from that job just as I’m sure you have. Sounds like your friend that gave you the story are “two peas in a pod.” Little babies crying because they don’t want the lower class flight attendant to sit for 20 minutes with their significant other. Shame on you, your friends, and some privileged lady hateful feelings.
Lol. Thanks for the laugh.
You are a jerk and a joke.. I really hate people like you. This man may lose his job because you went out of your way to write this stupid article! You seriously need some therapy.
As a current Flight Attendant for a major US airline I would never do this, but if you’re looking for peace and quiet on a commercial aircraft then you need not fly, what if it were a couple who had purchased first class seats, are you going to tell them they can’t talk on the plane, what if it’s a family with small children? My point is if you’re looking for peace on an aircraft invest in earplugs or noise cancelling headphones!!! Let me clear, the FA in this situation was completely out of line and I am definitely not excusing his behavior! But a noiseless FC cabin is not what you paid for…
An entitled first class, low class complainer. First class passengers can only afford to fly first class because of the real work that middle class individuals like the flight attendant do on a daily basis. She’s probably one of those low life’s with more money then she deserves, racking in more then she could ever need under the guise of allowing her money “to work for her”. What a lie. That middle class flight attendant generates her income. You’re privlege doesn’t exist without him. You owe him more then an apology, you owe him your first class seat. And she needs to see a therapist, it wasn’t the loud conversation that was keeping her awake, it was her diseased conscious.
Shut up already. You wouldn’t care if it was someone you had any respect for, certainly not the “staff”.
lol its funny how this article has triggered so many people. To me it’s all about reasonable expectations. On low-cost carriers like Spirit or Frontier, I expect lots of nonsense, no service, and a super cheap flight.
When I fly first class.. regardless of the carrier and regardless of flight time, I expect more. What “more” means can vary depending on the person, but I would agree that obtrusive conversation poor service because of FA neglect should not be tolerated.
Everyone has their personal expectations, but we shouldn’t let airlines lower our expectations. Qatar Airlines maintained their level of dignity and service, whereas others like American Airlines have become a joke.
Last, some responses think its “no big deal” what the FA did, but those are the same people that have never paid for a business class or first class ticket. Take their viewpoint with a grain of salt.
Have you been on a “first class” PSA flight? If you haven’t, don’t have your expectations too high.
It is interesting vw that you assume just because one thinks that the flight attendant didn’t do anything wrong that they must have never flown first class. I have the past decade have almost always “paid” for first class tickets domistica and international flights. And judging by your response it is easy to see you are not familiar with domestic first class. I will assume your comment is just based on ignorance instead of experience. But I am happy, if there are available seats in first class domestic, for folks to be moved up.
And just a bit of advice never use absolutes as you just come across as a pretentious chump.
Ah yes. Classic poors. Always neglecting their “meager duties.”
Get a grip.
Considering your disdain for the working class you ought to consider yourself lucky that the flight attendant was spending his time talking and laughing instead of building a guillotine.
Oh your absolutely right karen. Me and Lovey had such a dreadful time. I mean how dare those common working people sit in our section and be happy while doing it. The thought alone of them being while destroying my much needed 90 minutes of beauty sleep!( trust me I need it). While they should of been cleaning the toilets or something to keep them busy. Instead of freeloading. My God they must make at least minimum wage. Far to much if you ask mr. I pay my illegal employees half of that and their happy to clean my toilets.it will take us weeks to recover. Having to associate with such common folk.They should fire these freeloaders. Then hire sone of those grateful illegals like me. That only speak when spoken to.! whenever are they going to bust that dispicable union. Where is our saviour Ronald Reagan when we need him most. I can wait Donald is back running the show again. Then things should return to normalcy. Put the peasants back in there place
After everything airline employees have been through for two years–including multiple deaths of family and coworkers–you and company are livid about a 90-minute flight where an employee tried to share his life with his significant other so that she could be a wee bit spoiled and confident sending her loved one away into a literal battlefield in the skies??
Wow. Your privilege is broadcasting all over this post, of you and others.
Used to follow you. Now no longer. I would gladly welcome the family of the people who have made sure I get to work safely every single flight for the past 12 years to sit with me. And if FC/BC was full, I’m happy to downgrade for the flight.
90 minutes to say thank you…? Easy. Done. Next.
From the beginning of this article I realized one major issue…the passenger who could mind their business long enough to see what the FA and his GF was looking at on their phones.. regardless of the fact they were loud, FAs have a job description and im sure
he was not in violation of it. The Passenger also noted the point that he completed his tasks prior sharing space with his GF…not only that he asked permission from someone of higher authority based on the article he spoke to the FA of first class… had you not shared this info I would say you’re right but you provided enough evidence to clear him from any wrong doing except his vulgarity… you’re mad because you paid for premium service and while FA GF upgraded for free while they’re in the air….take the train, the bus, or a private jet if you have a problem sleeping in FC……have a good day….
If the flight in question was PSA, not AA, this seems misleading to me – even if booked through AA. That is like me blaming AA for the terrible attitude i experienced on British Airways flying from DFW to London to Rome and back.
It is hard to see how the other FA failed to meet the needs of just two paying 1st class passengers. I would not begrudge upgrading her seat, as long as it did not disturb others. That said, First Class is priced to deliver a much better experience than coach, and it should deliver a 1st class experience. The guy and his girfriend should have respected that.
We live in Fort Worth, home of AA, so naturally know many great people who work for AA, and have historically preferred AA. Unfortunately, the corporate culture has deteriorated since the 2013 merger with US Airways led to the latter’s leadership gaining control. It soon became obvious it was not governed with the same values: it was as if Bain had moved in and started extracting every nickle and dime they could wring out – to hell with the staff, and, next, the customers. But that has been the trend all over. Now the pandemic has made everything worse.
I would counsel the FA, not fire him, and refund/upgrade the offended parties.
Perhaps in the future just ask them if they wouldn’t mind being quieter. I believe the Flight Attendants have the right to upgrade whomever they should see fit.
Another point…if economy was so empty perhaps you could have moved back.
Oh you Canadian goodie-two-shoes. I didn’t realize AA and Canada Air share the same blog threads and your Canadian experiences are aligned with our American ones. Yikes, Bieber!
Don’t let the petty chicken schiesse get you down! There are great things to get your panties in a bunch. Life is too short and you don’t know when it will end. Take it from me, at 80+, it gets shorter by the day. Stop and smell the roses, listen to the music before it stops. Get a life, don’t make your problems someone else’s. Thank God your not pushing up flowers under a sod blanket.
This author’ privilege is show. He probably has no control of his life . He complained to his mom instead of AA and she said “ Momma’s big boy should write a letter. Your such a good writer son . “
Your boss should the the dock the pay you received to write this whinny letter. Maybe the FA had been approved to take some personal time .
Use your writing skills about the important issues in this country. What’s your end game to get this FA fired? Do you think the AA President doesn’t give a flying f%@#.
This article is garbage and I can’t believe I wasted my time reading it. Sleep at home or your hotel room, it’s a short flight. Also, PSA doesn’t get paid enough to o deal with people like you. What an assumption that it’s their gf to push a dumb narrative, also it’s a perk of them having that job. However they shouldn’t have been loud but still not a reason to make this piece of trash.
Just a privileged white guy who resented someone sitting in his privileged area without paying the first class rate. Add the fact that his employer most likely footed the bill makes the author a complete whiny a-hole.
Plus, he gave enough detail for employer to identify the fa..not cool…not a good guy by far.
I never sit down at work – ever !
And I am a quality standards supervisor for Lazy-Boy recliners.
Shut up!
Another Karen trying to get someone fired when all she had to do was ask the other FA to ask them to speak softly. It seems the other FA was able to handle the near empty plane. For all FAs have been through lately give them a break! So he was able to treat a friend to first class. Perks of the job. They get paid squat. His coworker didn’t mind.
What loser of a reader to report the flight and potentially cost the FA their job.
This is the most “Karen” article I’ve ever read.. it’s a Karen writing about something another Karen saw.. I suppose this story might appeal to Karens but I feel cheated out of 4 minutes of life that I could’ve been doing literally anything else, or nothing at all. I’m actually wondering what’s gone wrong with Google algorithms that it would appear in my news feed..
What a joke of story can some one gave this man a grammy award? He is definitely in need of some attention you even say the fly was almost empty you could wait for the other FA the provide you with your needs….. Would you die for wating a couple of extra minutes to be serve what?? Some soda and some peanuts?? What a joke is this definitely the real pandemic still around attention seeking lmao fyi i dont work for AA you need to get another career buddy cheers.
So the male flight attendant moved his gf to first class? His girl friend? He’s straight? A straight male flight attendant? Now there’s a story, Matthew!
The people defending the loud flight attendant who was on duty will never understand why Americans are so bad at service. If you are an American flight attendant and you’re defending this behavior, you also will never understand why everyone regards international flight attendants like ANA, Etihad, JAL, Asiana, etc. so highly, while your service ranks at the bottom.
Absolutely correct, very well said. The upgrade is one thing, that’s fine. But, the FA fratenization situation is a different story. If you are on duty, attend to your duties and sit in the areas designated for FAs while on duty. He was wrong in that aspect, period!!!
Agreed. Thank you for enlightening the core of the issue.
Noise cancelling heads phones. Get a pair. Dude was a jerk for sitting on the job. Definitely no professionalism but who flys with noice cancelling headphones these days!
I agree with you also. The plane was close to empty. He probably didn’t have too many duties to perform on that flight. Aside from being too loud, I don’t think he did anything wrong. I wait tables. If we’re slow my coworkers and I will sit and talk.
I too had a very uncomfortable flight, reported it afterward, and heard nothing back.
1. I requested to be moved to a similar seat where many were open because the man beside me did not stop playing music outloud. I was not allowed to move.
2. The seat that I was in was broken and not in proper alignment. Every time the man in front of me sat down or readjusted himself, his seat would slam into both my knees.
This flight was truly awful and should have been addressed.
I have come to believe both passengers and flight attendants have all become Karen’s. FAs after 9/11 became power hungry entitled prison guards. Yes , some are good, flying as much as I do, I have seen a steady and drastic decline in attitude, let alone service. You don’t dare look at most of them with anything less than a big smile because if they single you out and profile you as someone to hate, you are off the flight. This maybe a bit exaggerated, but I have witnessed horrible treatment to passengers who needed help, had a question or just asked for a water after service.
When I get on the plane no matter how sour a flight attendant looks, I go out of my way to greet, smile and compliment them. I have tight schedules and I don’t need any trouble. I even bring sealed prepackaged Hershey kisses to bribe them. Surprising how all this works. But sad that is what flying has degraded to small bribes to be treated with respect.
As far as passengers poor attitude, yup its a problem. But on the flip side I have witnessed pleasant passengers turning combative because of a flight attended and created a simple issue into a hostile passing match knowing.full well the flight attendants will prevail. So in conclusion, be careful what battle you want to fight flying the “not so friendly” skies!
This guy is a total winey ass. A 90 min flt and he had so much to complain about.
Our friends fly non rev all the time in first class. Their son is a pilot for the airlines. If there is a empty first class seat available they will seat them in First Class. If they are seated in coach and if a seat become available they will come and get then in coach and move them to First Class.
A benefit of working for the airlines is getting to fly non rev along with their family members. The attendants do not get paid enough to put up with a lot of abuse from passengers. Without the non rev benefit it would not be worth working for the airlines as a flight attendant. Allow them to use their benefits without you complaining about your whole 90 min flight and all the sleep you lost.
It seems to me people are always looking for something to bitch about. Now this entitled human has managed a way to complain about a couple or siblings laughing and enjoying photos together. The two had a moment together without passengers fighting and being punched by unruly passengers! I’m sure AA was happy to hear about you tramatic experience on your 90 min flight of not being able to sleep.
Lighten up irritated human. Try meditation and enjoy life a little. We all get to pick our battles and I don’t think this one should be on the list.
Try and enjoy life and stop causing everyone grief and their time dealing with you!
To the Karen that wrote this, I hope you get fired for being such a Karen and get blacklisted from American airlines as well.
For helping them hold their employees accountable?
No, for being an elitist, entitled, sassy little bitch
I think it’s not any of your business. Has American Airlines hired you on as the seat police? There are so many bigger issues that you could have used your talents and writing skills to address. I only wish we could have followed you around for a day on your job. You heard known of the conversation between the FA’s. You don’t know what that gentleman’s workload was like prior to your boarding.? If that FA is that type of employee they may already have him on their radar. You shouldn’t have an expectation that the flight would be quite or silent so you can sleep. It’s a public space. People talk, laugh,snor, and babies cry….. get over your self .
Dude you soung like you need pussy lol
Yeah, I hope the author of this article and owner of this blog gets fired!!
Live and Let’s Fly: Fly another day with Kyle, featuring quirky insights by Jerry on Sunday.
WOW!!! You, Matt and your “trusted friend”. Two Uber entitled whiny little runts. You are a disgrace to your profession!
If you tried to complain during the flight they would have started treating you as if you are the ” aggressor”, possibly call cops on ground for a ” disruptive passenger” and get you in trouble. If you ask complain to AA in any way, they won’t respond to you.
It s outrageous. I had a similar experience with a very rude Lufthansa manage woman at Newark airport, who’s behavior was outrageous. Nobody would believe the attitude and words on that woman unless I had a video. She refused to give her name or business card or any complaint forms. On top I was not allowed on the flight to Germany, she threatened me that I ll NEVER fly with Lufthansa again and called the Newark police. After cop heard what happened he felt bad for me, explained that I am not the only one who experience such things and attempted to persuade the Lufthansa woman to put me on the flight. She refused and I got on a Delta flight. I filed numerous complaints against Lufthansa, and NOTHING. Not even an apology. Such pieces of s***t in the industry must be held accountable.
Just by reading your response we know you were the aggressor and that’s why you were threatened with removal and the police.
Pipe down muscle neck. You are off subject and are too big to be such a whiner.
Why the hell did this worthless piece of crap article come up on my google feed. Sounds like some author who thinks he’s the s*** doing nothing but complaining about someone else’s experience. He hides behind his excuse of “wanting to better American Airlines” but is really just peddling gossip about them. As someone who was not on the flight you have no way of knowing whether that persons duties were ignored, which in that case all your complaining about is someone talking loudly which you did not witness firsthand either. How do you constitute writing an entire article about that, you are seriously laughable
Many thanks for your insight.
Get a life I hope you feel better if you make that lady lose her job for something that is not even your business common practice for airline employees for years
Dude, youre here devoting time energy resources to complain about some dude having a good time on a 90 minute flight ..
you sound like a karen .. when did men become so female like..
like who the hell cares what he does on his job..
get a grip get you some weed and get you some good pussy and youll be alright
BRAVO! My thoughts exactly. If he’s so rich, charter a private flight, or better yet buy a personal plane. This was a waste of an article. Yet, again another Karen. I was literally rolling my eyes throughout the entire diatribe. What a pathetic little man if this is all it takes to trigger him.
This “story” is banal. The author needs to get over the fact that the world does not revolve around them.
I go by him/he.
No one cares
Few points a crew member can upgrade anyone they chouse,.most first class paxs. The company they wkrk for paid for the ticket, the flight attendant did his job rverything was secured you got your drink what else were they suposed to do read you a bedtime story. If you need.something use the call button located above your head or.are you incapable of folowing instructions
The.FAs are there to get your dumb ass of.the plame in case of an.Emergency so yoi can continue complaining aboit everyting
While I fly 1st class more often than not, & expect the perks that go along with it. However, as I read this article, I felt like a number of things. Why do I know about this? Is it because someone is abusing their access to the media? It reeked of entitlement when the author suggested he should have went back to coach like it was better to disturb the folks instead of him in 1st class. Then he went so far as to identfy this kid in hopes of him losing his job. This person felt this kid needed to be delt with, vs learning. It felt plantationish. A kid let his girlfriend experience 1st xlass on a half empty flight. They should have just told him quietly that they were trying to sleep. But they were also upset someone got something as trivial as a 1st class seat for free when they paid for theirs & would have still been mad if they were quiet.
This probably should have been an AITA post on Reddit instead of an article. If you wanted to sleep on a 90 minute flight, and there were other passengers in front of you doing the same thing. How would you handle it? If getting that 45 minute nap is important to you (because you can hardly expect to get rest during take off and landing when all of the announcements are happening). Press the FA button, and ask the FA servicing your area to ask the people in front of you to quiet down or for you to be moved. The fact that one of them is an employee is irrelevant to you getting that sleep. You don’t know the policies about where the FA is allowed to sit when they aren’t serving you because you are not an employee of this company. FYI this has been shared in several travel groups and the consensus is, the FA & the female bodied person he chatted may have been people of color and it is likely your white self is flabbergasted that they had the audacity to exist outside of serving you. You don’t even know how the two of them know each other, what their sexual orientation and gender expression are, and you do not know what their relationship might be, nor where they were headed and if there may have been a special reason this occurred. If your personal needs aren’t being met in any customer service situation, alert the employee serving you so that your needs are met. If they were more quiet and you got your rest, there is no problem here. However, this post makes me and others wonder if your concerns may be rooted in some other ism and not really about you getting rest. Even if they are from your same background, this potentially reeks of classism and expectations of a servant class who you should never have to rub elbows with. Notice how I said makes me wonder, because without asking you more questions, I’m not going to make assumptions & jump to conclusions like you did in this article.
I like how the author and customer in question only said this event was an annoyance that was unprofessional at best because the FA wasn’t doing their job for over an hour, but somehow butthurt angry people in the comments totally ignored that and instead pretend like the author has an issue with class.
Nowhere does it say either party had an issue with someone sitting in first class, it’s the obvious FA not doing his job. Sitting around and talking for a few minutes is fine, but that’s obviously not what the FA in question did. Additionally it’s entirely classist to assume everyone in first class is uber rich when it’s mostly just working class people who use their money to get, in general, a better experience. And let’s be real here none of y’all care about class issues. None of you are protesting with the Amazon workers or Starbucks employees. You’re all as privileged as the rest of us and you won’t do anything to help the poor/working class by ranting at an article.
Also can you karens stop pretending like anyone got fired over this? The details of the individuals on the flight weren’t given and the customer didn’t complain to management so it’s safe to say the FA still has a job. Y’all really outing yourself as angry entitled people just cause someone was annoyed at an FA’s lack of customer service/flight decorum. As if none of you have complained about anything before. If anything this just demonstrates why so many customers consistently have an issue with American flights.
To the author, I’m sorry you have to deal with all these angry comments as they try and fail to debate semantics about who owns what company or use bs “what if scenarios” to justify someone’s bad behavior. You just know these are the same people that have done the same stuff and got called out for it which is why they feel targeted. At least they serve for some nice traction for that sweet Google algorithm. Have a good one.
“I generally enjoy flight American Airlines..” Mr. Klint, before criticizing other people who suck at their jobs I suggest you get better at yours. You can’t even write a short article without being bothered to proof read it for simple errors?
“I generally enjoy flight American Airlines..” Mr. Klint, before criticizing other people who fail at their jobs I suggest you get better at yours. You can’t even write a short article without being bothered to proof read it for simple errors?
How dare some people’s comments. I have traveled first class and main cabin and each ticket I paid for so if I wanted first class privileges for 90 minutes I would pay for it. That flight attendant had no right upgrading his girlfriend if it was not done before boarding and had no right disregarding his duties on his job. You get paid to work not to sit and hold loud conversations!!! So whoever thinks what he did was justified really has a serious problem! Everyone is considered a Karen now in days when they see something wrong and state it, for your fyi a Karen is a racist individual who looks for discrepancies when a minority individual is doing something!!!!! The author never stated the FA race he stated what he did wrong!!! American Airlines step your game up.
If someone’s actions are bothering you speak to them about it, explain your trying to sleep.
It obviously wasn’t important enough to do take any useful action. the problem I read hear was with the two first class passengers who feel comfortable enough to complain to each other after the flight.
He a hero and speak up when something isn’t right, otherwise you are in the wrong and have absolutely no business complaining, it’s called drama, save it for your comped front row tickets to the Oprah, I bet your the person who complains at intermission about someone unwrapping a lozenge from a plastic wrapper and some quip about how only waxed paper wrapped hard candy should be consumed during a performance. I’m Canadian, apologize, tell them to shut the fuck up, then apologize for deflowering virgin ears, there is no reason to be angry about it, but people need to know when you’re about something versus when your it’s drama. You keep peace by taking action, nothing is learned by complaining after the fact. You should have push the call button and and asked the flight attendant if you could move because the upgraded passager was being noisy and you would like to get a little more sleep. I sure they would have understood the lack of subtlety.
Did you know the only war the US ever lost was the war of 1812 to Canada, and the whitehouse was only painted white after it was burned by Canadians.
Oh you Canadian goodie-two-shoes. I didn’t realize AA and Canada Air share the same blog threads and your Canadian experiences are aligned with our American ones. Yikes, Bieber!
There’s more to this story than what you presented and I’m sure this is more of a Karen moment of embellishments. If their volume was truly that bothersome you could have simply been an adult and asked them to lower their volume or put headphones on. Be honest you were bothered by the upgrade you believe wasn’t warranted and that’s why you’ve made this a story.
Man the hell up, so you paid for a service… Guess what no one is gonna cater to your bullshit. Speak up while it’s actually happening instead of writing some crap article how your feelings where hurt, with the hopes that the airline will once again cater and give you a freebie. I work in the medical field and deal with this crap all the time if you don’t like it say something right there and then. It was as easy as saying I apologize if I’m coming off a little hard but I paid for first class and would like to be able to rest could you move your conversation elsewhere……done. not that big of a deal. Oh and also get some noise cancelling headphones.
Lol this is a waste of words article. Why was it on my feed. I stopped reading after the author started complaining about an empty plane bothered by the fa sitting with his girl instead of walking the plane. Lol too many complainers out here and they multiplying! Have a drink, put on some headphones and relax.
A typical little boy in a man’s body who’s well, jealous and has no real confidence to speak up in uncomfortable situations! This passenger could have easily spoken to the other f/a’s and asked for the two noisy people to consider other passengers needs. The working f/a and his crew performed their duties on-a small plane with few passengers and this disgruntled passenger doesn’t understand the how The airline job works. Getting a comp seat for your designated companion and enjoying a little perk like this is one of the few perks of this otherwise very demanding and stressful job.PSA is a private airline under contract with AA’s-to run short haul distances. It seems today that we have more man babies within our society who are simply not able to communicate their needs. Probably because they come from helicopter mommies who did every damn thing for them. I don’t know really. But this minor problem seems more about a man baby not being able to speak up for himself than anything else.
This is an insufferable male Karen complaining. Buddy and family passes are a job perk, the pay is lousy so they have to incentivize somehow. FAs CAN and do move pax from seat to seat, and that includes upgrades. I got one once when I was in military uniform and was grateful for it.
You have the gift of speech, use it to ask them to pipe down–like a normal person would. You seriously don’t think the FAs had the empty flight well in hand and instead all of them needed to stand around like forelock tugging serfs waiting to kiss your hiney? They are there to get you off the plane if it crashes, you pay for a wider seat in first.
Say, was the FA a minority? That would be on brand for you, I suspect. You sound exactly like a look down your nose bigot who doesn’t want the poor or those “other people” to enjoy any privilege you deem reserved for yourself. To be blunt, you are what is wrong–not them. Learn to use your voice if you see something you don’t like, rather than spending more time than the flight took to write an aggrieved screed about a FA sharing a moment of joy with a spouse or other loved one. As they say on the net, YATA.
That’s a wild assumption based on nothing.
Agreed
Very well said!
The peroxide you’re using has gone far deeper than your roots, mommy dearest.
What a (pardon my language) douche! If they were loud you could have politely asked them to keep it down. But instead you think they should have moved to coach to be loud because those people didn’t pay as much as you so they can deal with noise. How dare this man who’s been working hard throughout a pandemic making sure people can still get where they need to go, putting himself at risk in the process, take advantage of an opportunity to get off his feet for a bit? Doesn’t he know he’s working class and not an important travel writer like you?! Outrageous!!
I see why this country is on a down spiral. Folks that think like this are delusional and cancerous. The FA has a job to do. I’m sure there isn’t a fine print on the hiring packets that reads: “when you see the opportunity to bump up your friends, please do it in First Class and talk loudly so the passengers could be highly annoyed. “
Just wondering if we all think our “productivity” would pass the microscope test??
The FA sitting and chatting at all is obviously unprofessional. That said… a 90 minute flight, beverage service doesn’t start for about 15 minutes. They finished, according to the quote, 20 minutes before landing. The beverage service had to take at least 20 minutes to conduct.
So… they sat and chatted for about 30 minutes, and that lose of a half hour nap prompted her to write a post that probably took longer than that to author?
She’s not wrong but still a Karen.
You people are a minority. ‘Why don’t you go wake up the worthless in coach?’ So you pay more so you don’t have to mind your business. Seems like this person got all of the “duties” they were entitled to. You payed for exactly this service, if you want better service why don’t you charter a jet? Don’t like that service? Buy one. Just face it, you can’t afford to pay your way out of decency, but you want to treat people like you can.
For the author to spend time writing an article complaining about his experience, just reeks of arrogance and entitled attitude. Lets just say that it was another first class revenue paying passenger seated close to him and happen to be noisy, would he have complained and felt the same way? Because he believes that he was paying for a premium seat, another premium paying passenger should not in any way disturb his nap time?? Sir, you need to get over yourself.
Tim Bulljoke,
Let’s just say, realistically speaking, your hypothetical scenario didn’t happen, because it didn’t. Your point is that…? Help me understand your ambiguous hypothetical point, which is just that, hypothetical, so you’re trying to intellectually respond by giving a situation that never occurred. Got it. You’re so smart dude.
Have you ever actually traveled before? What kind of idiot steps on a plane for a trip without being prepared for possible inconveniences during an extended period of time away from home?
Plausible hypotheticals are important to consider (genius) because it could happen, and if it did you wouldnt have the right to moan about it as its another person who payed full price for a seat. If its possible and likely you should expect it to happen so that you arent disappointed when it does; and similarly come prepared.
Additionally if its a SO, it was more than likely an Non-revenue traveler. Those trips affect your taxes whether you pay for them or not.
Deal with it. The only person I feel even half bad for is the other FA (if the one that was sitting was even on the clock.)
The author, his friend and you could just admit you’re pissed off about people getting a seat you dont think theyre entitled to for some reason. They probably followed all the rules but you guys are spoiled brats who think you know better.
I totally agree with ya
American Airlines is the WORST when it comes to customer service. I stopped flying them many years ago because they’re unprofessional, rude and simply don’t care about customers. I agree with this very valid complaint. The flight attendant should be fired! I had a similar experience in coach many years ago, where off duty fa’s attempted to put me out of my ASSIGNED exit row seat so she could sit with two other of duty fa so they could all fly together. They were LOUD, UNRULY and had a laptop open to watch movies as if they were in a theater, while reclining covered in blankets. The fa’s on duty were allowing the behavior and kept trying to tell me it wasn’t my seat when I clearly held the ticked seat on the boarding pass in my hand. I ABSOLUTELY REFUSED to sit where they were trying to sit me, and held up departure until I got my seat I paid for. Mind you this was a completely booked flight from New Orleans to LAX. I asked them to call security because I wasn’t sitting ANYWHERE else, but it wasn’t until other passengers started complaining about not leaving the gate whom agreed with me, did she get her rude butt up. I complained to the highest entity until I revived my FULL FARE back and they also gave me a voucher to fly in the future. They claimed the fa was reprimanded, but I never really got confirmation so who knows. I could very well fly first class but you get the same unprofessional fa there also so what’s the point in wasting money. I’ve not flown American airlines again because of this and ANYTIME there’s a complaint I’d bet it’s true. So to all those who say we shouldn’t complain, that’s your opinion, and we all know opinions are like a**holes everyone has one. I ABSOLUTELY agree with the writer and this just let’s me know American Airlines still has so much work to do at improving customer service and ensuring that their fa’s do the job their PAID to do. The fa and his girlfriend can visit on their own time NOT when he’s on the clock!
Waste of space this article is, the author sounds like an elitist. Why is it news that two people sat in first class and enjoyed themselves for a 90 minute plane ride. They is more to write about in this world that holds much more importance. Please go find stories that need to be told . Stop using the news for your personal compliant log. Do better.
Jernise, this was such a waste of article that it prompted you to have your 2cents heard/seen. Tell me when you begin singing to your choir, cause that may just happen often. The bliss is real.
What? That’s not how the saying goes, it’s Preaching to the Choir, and I don’t think that applies here.
Was the flight attendant wrong? Absolutely! But, don’t say the union made it this way. This was an individual choice and certainly not intended by the union to be part of a union members benefits. You will have people who take advantage of anything they can in all job classes regardless of union affiliation. So, that being said, let’s not make this about the union.
I have no sympathy for those who are able to pay more money and feel entitled to being treated better than everyone else (i.e. “First Class”)
That being said, this FA is a lazy, spoiled idiot.
Read most of this. Its wicked funny. There would be NO ARTICLE if this FA took his GF to 1st class and quietly sat there with her. None of us know their background stories and why this happened. Yup could just have been as a FA he does have some power. good. The point was the LOUDNESS. If two passengers were being as loud as the writer states you can bet FA would have asked them to quiet down. Come on people in in coach they would have asked them to stop being so loud. If anyone of you had paid for 1st class and were trying to sleep for any reason whatsoever you would feel the exact same way. On the other hand I dont know why writer didnt complain to other FA as I’m sure that would have put a stop to it immediately. Sometimes people especially with their friends heading on vacation are naturally a bit louder sometimes. It happened to me once and another passenger nicely asked me to try to be a little quieter, naturally I lower my tone.
I am surprised by anyone excusing such behaviour on the job. FA was definitely not doing their job. My husband and I had to deal with a rude FA on American Airlines who kept complaining about everything that we did/did not do. He appeared to be having issues with everything about us on this flight and it was a four hours flight. He kept asking us if we were from Florida or Texas and kept on saying how he can’t stand folks from Florida and Texas. We were on the flight from Las Vegas to Chicago but I didn’t see why it matter where we were from. American Airlines needs to do a better training of FAs, that’s for sure.
You have to wonder if one of these people commenting that it’s ‘no big deal’ that the FA didn’t do HIS JOB’ is in fact the FA himself, trying deflect.
There is to many things to write about working class
I don’t see the utility to get fire someone
I agree with a lot of people here who suggest that this is not out of the ordinary for non rev passengers. I might also suggest we don’t know if the flight attendant in question was actually on duty. If a flight attendant was either reaching the end of their allowed hours or just helping out on a flight they were non reving themselves then they have no other responsibilities beyond what they did.
I don’t understand why if they thought passengers were being loud they didn’t just ask them to keep it down or alert the one duty flight attendant.
The author pisses me off opening this with suggesting that this is a “union thing.” First, AA flight attendants are represented by an in-union (Association of Professional Flight Attendants). The APFA does NOT represent the flight attendants of Envoy, Piedmont or PSA (the carrier involved in this article). These flight attendants are represented by the much larger and more established Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO. Even then, the AFA does not condone this behavior.
This is not a union issue. This is simply a “worker not doing his job” thing! It is as simple as that.
Lord. The world’s going to hell in a hand basket anyways. The last two years have been hard enough. Compassion is free. Who gives a fuck…
Did Larry David write this article?
It’s really none of your business this flight attendant works hard and had the other one cover for him now your story will get him punished or fired if they were talking loudly say something move your seat as you said the plane was empty
Exactly, it’s none of her business. As long as they don’t F me, i don’t with them.
Perhaps your friend could have said, “I’m trying to sleep, can you hold it down please? And one of the first rules of journalistic ethics to refrain from using it to pursue a grudge, either for yourself or for your friend.
What happened to the days where people simply asked for what they want instead of fuming silently? The couple almost certainly would have honored your friend’s wishes. And a young couple, perhaps newly in love, could have shared 90 happy minutes without being rooted out.
Truly a first world problem and complaint.
♂️ everything is sooo broken! Soon they be robot FA’s.
This article reeks of California crybaby syndrome. People don’t care about service jobs anymore because of people like you, the constant complainers, the nagging homos, no amount of money would convince me to deal with customer service ever again. Keep your pampered self on the west coast and quit trying to infect the rest of us with your libtardation, thanks!
Wait…isn’t he suppose to be gay?
Karen really. Just put some ear plugs or head phones in. Problem solved.
I believe the author is completely validated in her frustration. Any time a passengers behavior or noise level is obnoxious to the point where it is disturbing other passengers, those passengers should be able to voice this complaint to the flight attendants who would in turn, as their professional duty, ask the offending passengers to lower the volume in consideration of the other passengers. When it is the flight attendant being the obnoxious party, passengers lose any ability to voice any misgrievances.
That’s incredibly unprofessional. I would be livid as well. I don’t understand how someone is being a “Karen” by expecting common courtesy.
I think it’s ok to move the gf to first class. I don’t think he should have sat down on the job.
All the loud talking should jave been nixed. It’s very immature, he’s lucky he somehow got away with it.
Booooo hoooooo
For years I flew American Airlines and Delta for frequent business and personal travel. In 2019 I decided to fly with American Airlines exclusively even though I would of received better corporate benefits for my business travel with Delta. Delta also has better customer service, I still choose to go with American because of the amount of direct flights I could get from my home hub. In late 2021 I have begun to see the downward spiral of American Airlines customer service one that wasn’t the highest to begin with so I went back to Delta exclusively. I will have to connect more frequently now but the customer service and sky clubs makes it worth it.
Yeah this is the worst article I have ever read
Honestly…. I’m really shocked to read this story! The male FA actually had a GIRLFRIEND??? A real live GIRLfriend???
I’m in complete disbelief ! ! !
Wow… I am surprised that someone wasted there time to write a story like this!! I did not read it all, just enough to realize that the author is probably an entitled judgmental type of person whom was likely jealous because he does not have the ability to enjoy life like this attendant who is making very little to serve him is. I am thankful for these associates and I am happy he had the opportunity to spoil his girl a little. I say keep loving life!! And to the author… go take a vacation and get some rest!!
This falls directly in-line with the flight attendant I saw sneaking a vape on the backseat of an AA flight a few months back. Hunched over facing the window with her back to me in the aisle across….didbshe not think I’d see the cloud? I mean, she obviously was trying to hide it. Lol! These people. And I am not supposed by anything AA does. They’re horrible and their FAs have gotten a God complex I guess stemming from their “mask” power and authority given to them. They’re truly Nazis about it. I had one get rude with me I n a loud tone as I talked with my daughter via video before we left the gate. She was loud, rude, and offensive. And I have found that this has become the rule rather than the exception with this group. I fly 2 to 3 times a month for work, sometimes more, for the last 2 years. They don’t impress me at all, and if I can avoid them I do. And I do own stock on them……which I plan to sell. I bought it at $11/share 2 yrs back. It’s only $16 or $18 now. There’s a reason! But you know who I don’t have bad feelings with and about? You know who I do fly with every chance I get?? United. Flipping fantastic. And have become a better experience all the way around and generally cheaper than AA as well. AA doesn’t even deserve to American in its name.
I understand not wanting to me bothered by loud or boisterous behavior. The part of this story that hits my nerve is the sentence that suggests that the couple should have taken their party back to the cheap seats where they would have bothered only the rabble.
I’ve been watching Downton Abby recently, this article sure has the feel of the privileged class balking at having to share space with the working class. “What’s a weekend.” Get over it!
This writer is a snitch.
Why don’t you mind your own business it’s just a 90 minute flight. You should of just talk to the FA instead of complaining and getting this guy fired
Just Remember Karma you just don’t mess with people’s lively hood
Put some headphones on. Sheesh!
For real. You can pay for first class but can’t afford a pair of headphones? GTFO LoL
For all the haters on both sides – you don’t like Matts articles and think they are garbage, don’t read them.
I personally like them – sometimes harsh – but honest. Grammatically not perfect – I don’t care. Sometimes I do not agree with his point of view but I’l keep reading his articles.
Now back to the article —- forget about the upgrade, loud talking etc. The real problem is FA sitting with his girlfriend while on duty. What would you do if your waiter in the restaurant would do the same – sitting at the table next to you with his GF/friend while working? How about cashier at the store — she will step out on the side to chat for 15 minutes while at work? Would you be ok with that.? Most likely not.
Everyone is entitled to the opinion ( it doesn’t make them Karen). Respect that – even if you don’t agree.
Matt – keep writing articles. Maybe one day we will meet at the lounge and have a nice conversation about the Airlines.
Man, those first world problems really getting you down. Next you’ll tell me they let poor kids into your school or the champagne was warm. Obviously your biggest problem isn’t what they were doing, but more where they were doing it. How dare they come to first class and act like that. Proletariat poppin… bourgeoisie droppin!
What whiner? Get a life. You were jealous that perhaps have never had a girlfriend to laugh with.
I HAVE BEEN ON BOARD UPGRADED TO FIRST CLASS MANY TIMES SIMPLY BECAUSE I HAD ON CLOTHING OR A HAT INDICATING THAT I WAS A VETERAN. THIS ARTICLE INDICATES TO ME THAT THIS CARRIER HANDLES REGIONAL FLIGHTS FOR AA AS SUCH SMALLER AIRCRAFT ARE USED WHERE WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION IS IMPORTANT TO THE SAFETY OF THE AIRCRAFT. AFTER ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ARE GIVEN, AND INITIAL DRINK/SNACKS ARE GIVEN THE FLIGHT ATTENDANTS HAVE LITTLE TO DO. NORMALLY THEY’LL TAKE SEATS TOGETHER OFTEN AT THE REAR OF THE AIRCRAFT.
I SEE NOTHING WRONG WITH A FLIGHT ATTENDANT CALLING HIS/HER PARTNER OR JUST A FRIEND UP FRONT, PARTICULARLY IF IT ALSO SERVES WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION PURPOSES. THESE TWO PEOPLE SOUNDS LIKE “KARENS” TO ME WITH NOTHING BETTER TO DO THAN INTERJECT THEMSELVES INTO OTHER’S LIVES. BUT TO TAKE FURTHER STEPS TO OUT THEM ON FACEBOOK AS WELL AS TO THE FLIGHT ATTENDANTS EMPLOYER ISS THE EPITOME OF WANTON “BUSYBODYNESS”!
Call the airline and complain if you want whine about this, don’t waste our time with a condescending article. Youre not the first person to complain about airline service. Wtf.
What a, garbage article. “Have we discovered another reason why the union representing American Airlines flight attendants demanded cutbacks in beverage and meal service onboard: so flight attendants can upgrade and fraternize with their significant others?”
Then later glosses over how it’s a psa airlines flight attendant and points out its still technically an American flight attendant, without then mentioning that they wouldn’t be in the union. APFA union has nothing to do with their service standards. Not the same uniform, not the same wings, not their service, so not really the same flight attendants. American can’t even punish them, they would have to reach out to psa to have them do it. Obviously the flight attendant is in the wrong but the author knowingly called out Americans union which has nothing to do with psa. It’s intentionally misleading which makes it bad journalism.
I’m honestly more concerned with how the major airlines and all airlines have burnt out their employees. Pilots are burnt out, the flight attendants are burnt out, and all the other employees are burnt out. That would be an interesting story to write.
Get a life lady. What a miserable tattle tale …
If you are on public transportation, even high ended like airline travel, you don’t have a right to complete silence. Bring ear plugs or noise reducing headphones. Granted, this guy wasn’t taking his job very seriously, but you aren’t his supervisor. Report him if you want, but don’t act like he personally ruined your flight.
There it goes another Karen voicing her opinion
Most male flight attendants have boyfriends not girlfriends; I don’t buy this whole story.
Gotta love the people in this country. They comment on something so insignificant as this – yet
give the corrupt and incompetent politicians in congress who are quite busy ruining the country – a free PASS!
How would he know if the FA was neglecting his duties when the guy states “he was trying to sleep”? It means his eyes were closed and so he “saw” only what he wanted to. This is nothing but an overdramatized embellishment of someone’s own opinion of what occurred and not the truth.
And the lady in front of him is a “Karen”.
HOWEVER: the FA does have his duties as an ambassador to the brand and should have maintained a professionalism conclusive to that ambassadorship. Waiter’s at tables should not sit down at their friend’s tables while on the clock for long period’s of time during their shift while on the clock.
SO: what I would base this on is HOW LONG REALLY did the FA sit and visit with his gf bc the original story CANNOT be trusted?
Flight attendants are on the plane to make sure you are safe in the event of an emergency. They do provide service but they are not to be babysitters or have to be policing immature morons who refuse to wear masks or the plethora of pathetic behaviors that happen increasingly on flights. The mask requirement was in place when you bought your ticket. You wouldn’t last a day as a FA dealing with any of the things that make their safety a concern. The really sad part is it is supposed adults acting like poorly raised children in all cases. As stated by many. Ask the FA and gf to speak more softly and get on with what’s important. As far as those who think paying for 1st class is paying for anything more than a more comfortable seat, a nice meal and free drinks, get over your elitist self. Several have mentioned it has to be upbringing in the home. Each generation becomes more and more entitled. Trophies for just being. Everybody is great. Behavior on planes is just one example of where things are headed.
1st world problems. Life is so tough.
And this is news? Idiots those who wrote this crap and those who love reading it.
Matthew Klintb is xa douchebag, no surprise from Los Angeles. This is garbage and I’m blocking this site from my new feed.
I have had both wonderful as well as ugly flights on AA over the years. I have been upgraded to first class on some flights and purchased upgrades. The last flight I had on AA was from Dallas to Lima. I met my niece in DFW whom I hadn’t see for over 20 years who was flying to Peru for a few weeks visit with my new family she had never met. When we checked it at the counter I asked if we could be seated together as we both had seats in different locations. The wonerful lady gave us seats at the very back of the plane that didnt recline due to the bathrooms directly behind us. At least she accomodated my request. Just before they closed the door for takeoff she came to the back of the plane and asked us to follow her. She then seated us in the first coach seats behind first class. She gave us the best coach seats on the plane that were 3 across with extra leg room, for just the two of us. It’s not what you ask, say, or do. It is how you ask, say, and do it that makes the difference. I have been upgraded to 1st class a few times and had not paid or earned an upgrade. It always pays to “live in or hearts”, you might be surprised at what genuine honor and respect can bring you. It has served me well for most of my life. It never pays to live the standard arrogance assiciated by those fortunate enough to be able to afford 1st class……. Are they really better than us? Yes, simply ask them.
This article is so pretentious. All he had to do was politely ask them to lower their volume (probably would have saved the flight attendant his job and the passenger his peace of mind)
Matthew and his friend here are just having a hard time getting over the fact that slavery ended. I find it nice when workers are able to relax and enjoy themselves on the job. Airplanes are never quiet. If you’re expecting to sleep on a plane and traveling without earplugs you should be mad at yourself not those around you. Complaining about people talking and enjoying themselves on a 90 min flight is a weird move. I think this person and the author might have some personal issues they need to work on.
Exactly!
Your friend is an entitled ass. And based on your take of this incident, so are you. And so are a lot of the people posting here. I never realized how many self centered, self important people there are.
Do you realize how much PSA flight attendants make? About 21k the first year and then they get miniscule raises annually. He shouldn’t have been loud and obnoxious, but give him a bit of a break. It was a near empty flight and he’s making damn near poverty level money.
Suck it up and quit being a crybaby. One of the perks of having a job that takes up a huge part of your life Isay. If people were chatting in 1st class and neither one of them was a flight attendant would it still ruin your premium experience? Of course not. When talking has occurred in 1st class did you take the time then to write about how they ruined everything for you, No. So it’s quite obvious that people you consider servants or of a lower class crowding your premium space is what you have a real problem with. And why is it so important to you that you want justice, retribution a firing or discipline or whatever. To me it’s petty individuals like yourself that’s what’s wrong with this world. Leave people alone.
I could have largely agreed with you, until the whole “premium experience” crap. Yet another example of those with money thinking they are better than everyone else because of it.
Stop your complaining already. If it was a full flight you wouldn’t have slept anyways. This world has turned into a bunch of spoiled brats.
I say live and let live! This was so unnecessary to put this flight attendant on blast! People deserve the same perks of the people they have to serve on a daily basis especially rude and entitled people such as yourself! How dare you complain like this? The worst things going on in this world, take for instance human trafficking, Murder more important things that need our attention no instead you want to divide us humans even more! I say good job for that flight attendant living life a little bit with his girlfriend !!
All you crying louder than the infant baby on aisle 5, poor poor baby wah wah wah’
It sounds like he did do all his duties. She said this did not happen until after drink service was complete, he seemingly asked his superior for permission, he got up 20 minutes before landing to attend to his duties. It was just a low population flight so he had some downtime and spent it chatting with his girlfriend. I will give her if he was being overly loud that’s a party foul. But also keep in mind DC to Tallahassee is just over a 2 hour flight. Drink service wasn’t complete until when? He got up 20 before landing to attend to duties. This whole affair might have been just half an hour, not an hours long affair. So in summary; did all his duties before, got permission in advance, attended to all his duties prior to landing. The only thing this complaining woman has is that his conversation might have been loud for half an hour or so. But seeing as how petty the rest of her complaint is I question even that maybe they were speaking at normal volume, maybe she was just looking for something to complain about.
Quit your whining (KAREN), You should have had the guts to approach the couple and politely ask them to please tone it down a little, problem solved! And how do you know what his duties were? Were passengers complaining that their needs weren’t being met? You kinda sound like an entitled hater. How were they supposed to know that they were disturbing you, if you didn’t bother saying something to them.
How is any of this crap worth getting heated over? If one did this or one did that and it offends… try to think about how offensive it is to be a busy body? If we as a society could just stop looking for shit to b8tch about maybe the bitches would finally shut the fuck up. We all have our own perspective about everything so why is it so hard to live and let live? Does only one type of person qualify for the right to be left the F lone? And if so what’s the deciding factor for human decency to be given? Money? It’s a joke. Age? Should be birth but isn’t. Respect? Earned and given… that’s the part no one gives a shot about. Everyone demands it… but very few ever give it….
What a Debbie Downer. I’ll bet if the complainer was offered a First Class upgrade they’d take it in a heartbeat. This whiney bitch should have just moved to a less noisy section of the plane. It was only a 90 minute flight, fer Chrissakes.
There are clearly two opinions here and I agree with some points on both sides.
I do believe that too much is being made of this however. It’s like everything is a debate or argument today. Everyone wants their opinion to be heard and some of them include really ugly words and thoughts. It’s really unnecessary to be nasty.
Don’t fly AA if you don’t like it. If the couple was talking too loud, ask if you could move because you needed rest. The flight was mostly empty. I’ve changed seats many times on half full flights. Yes we know that the FA was working and spent time with his girl friend chatting. Did anyone suffer? The writer stated that the FA provided services during the flight. We don’t know the situation. Why not give someone the benefit of the doubt. What happened to being human?
Wow, what a crybaby little bitch you are! You’re gonna get this guy fired because you are being a damn drama queen. Complaining about two people catching up and enjoying conversation and photos. Big fucking deal he upgraded his girlfriend. You and people like you are the reason things can no longer be enjoyable. Always complaining and dipping into others business. He was not hurting anyone at all. Aaawww, you wanted to sleep?? GTFOH! You are the type of person that rents an apartment in a huge complex and then, expects everyone in the building to walk around on egg shells so you don’t complain to the landlord how loud they are listening to their music on a Saturday morning while they are getting dressed to go run errands for the day. Get a life loser!
I agree it is totally annoying when people around me are being loud and disruptive. But, did anyone ask the FA and his GF to tone it down, or tell the two of them their behavior was annoying and causing people around them frustration?? Sure, its reasonable to expect people to act appropriately on an airplane. However, keep in mind we are dealing with PEOPLE here. PEOPLE come in all shapes, sizes, temperaments, and levels of stupidity and self-importance.
The Source in this article needed to “speak up or shut up.” If a person is acting inappropriately, and you’d like them to stop, it’s up to YOU to let them know. Or to ask a different FA to tell them to lower the volume of the conversation. My son learned this his first year of pre-school: “if someone is doing something you don’t like, ask them to stop. If the person doesn’t stop, it’s ok to ask whoever is in charge for help.”
To the Source: there are polite ways to solve this problem. If that doesn’t work, by all means, feel free to tell the world of your suffering. But sitting there, pouting but saying nothing, and then complaining to everyone else afterwards is as ridiculous as it is ineffective. Next time, try to put your big boy/girl pants on and settle it like a pre-schooler. ♀️
Lol damm people getting blasted for something not that deep. You know now this employee will probably loose his job just cause someone wasn’t happy about something that is really not a big deal. Get a life
Over 400 comments, incredible! I’m fully subscribed. This is awesome. I wish I could see the metrics about the posters that you can see, though I don’t envy the LALF inbox right now.
With over 100 more waiting to be approved…server is a bit overwhelmed!
Won’t have to worry about any more reads from me as this article sounds like an entitled attitude from someone who was mad someone was upgraded.
It’s all one sided and parts sound fictional.
Adding this site to my Google News block list
If first class was empty what duties were there?
Are people not supposed to talk in first class?
Who sleeps on a 90 minute plane ride?
What is this manufacturered outrage?
I think this complaint would be better shared with administration, not the general public.
Wow here’s what happened to me. I was flying down to our home in Vero Beach. South Bend International/ Charlotte NC / Myrtle Beach Florida.
Flight delayed in SB due to Mechanical Finally took off for Charlotte NC. Flight then delayed in Charlotte due to Mechanical. As we were finally boarding on our final leg of the trip 2 very intoxicated women were allowed to board. Upon taking off the one women got on her phone and was talking to her daughter. I was in first class they were seated right behind me. They were terrible. The Flight attendant even asked for our phone numbers of the others seated in first class .
Next thing I know we are asked to prepare for an emergency landing. Thinking it was for these two women.
As we approach Jacksonville Airport Emergency vehicles are lining the runways. I was terrified!! Of course the 2 women were screaming they were going to sue American it was so bad.
4 hours later, after the Airport had been closed. No food to be had, only crackers and water were served we start to record a new plane, After listening to these 2 women complain they were given first class seats and served wine for their Flight to Myrtle Beach.
The Police should have been called but were NOT.
I’m still shocked.
Nothing was offered as far as I know to compensate for this terrible flight.
We left South Bend at 930 am and finally arrived in Florida around 130 am.
I have flown first class several times on different airlines (and never paid for it). If there are empty seats in first when I’m boarding, I simply give my seat # to a steward, and ask if they will come get me. Some do, some don’t. But, once the doors close, I have often been told ” what happens on the plane stays on the plane.” The “complainer” here sounds like they feel entitled to a quiet flight because they paid for first class. What would have happened if the couple were both actual paid first class passengers who were enjoying themselves and their photos. Would they still get complained about? Was the complainer neglected in any way? Were their needs not met? It is an airplane, not a library. I have enjoyed many flights where I have had the opportunity to visit with the steward for long periods. No one complained. In fact, our family recently sent my mother on a first class trip to Hawaii, and she commented how nice it was that the steward come and visited with her for most of the flight. In a world gone mad, it seems that you are complaining that someone was able to give their girlfriend the gift of a first class seat (mind you this happens often at the ticket/boarding counters but you don’t hear about it) and then happily sit and share photos and some laughs. Really?? And for this you want to complain about the airline and possibly lose this person’s job? Again, I say REALLY??? I feel sorry for you!! Instead of taking the time to write this complaint, you should have taken that much need nap!! Thank you American Airlines for your amazing service “on the plane” as well as off!!
This guy is not serious writing this ridiculous article at a time where flight attendants are going through hell trying to get someone fired. They should’ve called out and had your flight cancelled. You’re a heartless selfish prick. This guy didn’t hurt anyone or cause u any harm and not give u the serviced that was expected outside of u not getting your privileged nap. If you wanted him to quiet down all u had to do was ask and he absolutely would have. Karma to you.
Not damning in the least bit.
CONCLUSION: Frequent flyer gets upgraded for 90-minute early evening flight and doesn’t understand he’s not on a private airplane.
I truly see nothing wrong with the FA’s actions. The light load didn’t require the additional FA, as far as I can tell from the description.
The implication the chatty FA’s behavior would’ve been understandable if it taken place in coach is laughable and absurd.
There was a ten year stretch of my life when I was flying Delta 180-200k miles each year. I was upgraded on every domestic flight automatically, and usually three days prior to my flight. When traveling with my family all of us were upgraded when seats were available.
Not once did ancillary noise find me irritated like this passenger explains. Had it been a redeye flight, perhaps. An early evening 90-minute flight with a 10:25 arrival? Get chrissake, it’s not bedtime.
With the beating airline employees have taken the past couple years, this scribe reads like petty garbage.
Now, to your point of the FA being on duty: There remains negative projections in this story to frame the narrative. You have no idea what capacity the FA in questions was tasked to work on the flight. Perhaps he was helping out during his flight home? Or, it turned out he wasn’t needed and his colleagues just told the guy to enjoy the flight with his girlfriend. There’s another assumption, though. Maybe the guy’s married and that was his
side slide?
Good grief.
Lower your expectations, folks. Appreciate the upgrades we get. This “source” outta donate his next upgrade to a service member or senior for his next flight. Forced humility.
Uptight douchebaggery, personified.
I’m so happy you brought these points up. I couldn’t believe the entitled nonsense in this uneducated article
Buddy,
Stop worrying about what this flight attendant did. It is a short flight and there is not much to do for him anyway. I am sure he performed his duties prior to takeoff and prior to landing. So what if he wanted to spend some time looking at photos and enjoying himself talking to his girlfriend. I am sure most of us have done some non related things while at the office. This flight is office and as long as you got to your destination that’s all that matters. STOP COMPLAINING!!!!!!!
As far as you lack of being able to sleep. The airplane is not a hotel room. Again get a life and stop complaining.
So you got an anecdote from someone you trust and published it? I suppose that’s fair, but a little weird since it didnt even happen to you in particular.
I figured if youre a frequent flier, you’d be aware of the fact of non-revenue travel. Typically employees are allowed to make a SO or spouse their registered partner and confer the same flying benefits of an employee to them. Saying “it was an unauthorized upgrade” is something Im not entirely sure youre in the position to verify, as non-rev travelers who apply for first can be put in coach, and moved as seats are made apparently available. Additionally, these passengers are more or less asked to blend in and not wear absurd clothing, and not give the employees trouble.
If the FA was on the clock, I can see that being a problem, but Id have expected their partner to complain about that on their own behalf and not you. If they werent on the clock, they could have been traveling themselves or moving to another station to operate another flight. Im basically saying it may have actually been a situation where they werent obligated to be serving anyone. It’s hard to say because its an anecdote, again.
That all says nothing of the behavior. I’d say its kind of crummy, but Id also say another passenger could have paid for 2 first class tickets and done the same thing. Your feelings are absolutely valid, Im only trying to say that it’s certainly not a unique experience to non-rev travel. (Im 95% sure the girlfriend was a non-rev.) If you feel like that sort of thing would never happen at another airline, I suppose you could take your business there. Job security is a little more important than a contextless tantrum over a 90 minute nap.
Didn’t they give you bose headphones…? I can’t hear myself talk between those and the engines. Im surprised it was a problem at all.
Get over it. Air travel is all like a cattle car in the sky. First class means the biggest cows ride in front.
I am a formal travel agent of 20 yrs from a time before computers then transitioned to automation…we had respect for the airlines back then and they us! We had to dress for success and be professional in front of the public…I don’t care if there’s only one person on that plane…That employee was on the clock and it’s that simple…the question is if his boss was standing behind him would he had acted thus? I have read these silly comments that have nothing to do with this unprofessional behavior…they are clueless when it comes to pride in your job,who you represent and how you do it…probably because they’ve never seen it or experienced it…
It’s is pretty ridiculous that the FA would think this okay. I know on long international flights that they get breaks to rest, so the visiting in that case would be okay. But the bumping is crazy. Especially considering the British Airways flight recently that only had one passenger on the whole plane and they wouldn’t let him sit in First Class because it’s against the ‘Rules’
I left an explanatory comment that was discarded by the site.
Looks like youre just trying to get people fired whether you understand how non-revenue travel works or not. (Spoiler: you can upgrade non-revenue traveling “friends” up to first class if they applied for that in the first place. Heres another anecdote for you: I am a non-rev passenger, I regularly fly first class and flight attendants change my seat all the time. I always apply for first, and if they arent sure first is available, sometimes they put me in coach before upgrading me. Sorry to burst your bubble. If you thought it was unauthorized youre more than likely wrong. Fake news much?)
I couldnt have imagined someone who has “flied 200,000 miles” could be so clueless about it and couldn’t have bothered to explain the potential realities to their whiney friends. If you dont own this site I’d love to report you to it for posting fake crap to try and get people in trouble over nothing.
Theyll still fly for free with or without your permission. Cry about it.
Guys, with everything going on in life some miserable person is really writing an article about 2 people enjoying themselves, respectfully, on a flight. Who cares if it was a FA and his girlfriend or two strangers. There are far worse things to write about. If the FA did his job and was kind and courtesy while assisting the passengers then give him a break. Typical, smh! You guys loveeeee crying and complaining about anything that doesn’t fit you guys standard. Wake up! It’s 2022. People are a lot more chill and easy going. Stop making unnecessary problems out of light…very light issues. Geeeeeee….lighten up!
If a copassenger who holds similar ticket, is given extra attention and privileges, certainly that brings in a feeling of neglect and prejudice unless it was shown to a senior, veteran, handicapped etc.
I travelled from Dallas to London in January 2020 . I a senior, was on an isle seat and an young man in his 20s was seated on the window seat with the seat in between empty. Soon after take off a FA came and leaned over me to ask the young man’s name and said ” Oh ! I was looking for you . Mr. X had messaged about you ..Please let me know if you need anything ” The young man said he was also looking g for the FA and asked ” “Can I move to the business class ?” The FA said he would be back. Soon he came back with a tray of snacks and a drink and said he was still trying for a vacant seat in the upper class. Following that the young man was served with snacks, drinks , rich looking first class meals across my face ahead of time throughout. I was curious to know what kind of a VIP was my copassenger. I found out that he just graduated and was going to Italy for studying fashion designing. So far so good although I felt uncomfortable throughout. The worst thing came at the end when the young gentleman brought out something from his bag and said ” I have something for you” and handed over to the FA who immediately put it in his pocket without even looking at it. It has been 2 years since I experienced this , yet it remains fresh in my memory showing that how certain instances could cast a lasting bad feeling in your mind. There shouldn’t be any undue favoritism or bribing inside an air craft or anywhere.
Who cares!!! Airline passengers are soooo nosey and actually need to learn to mind your own business. You pay to get from “Point A” to “Point B” and speaking as an airline employee, that’s all you deserve. You don’t own the plane. Business travelers truly are the worst. You want all these perks and you didn’t even pay for your ticket, your company did and should get all the perks.
You really took time out of your day to write an article about a flight attendant talking too loud…. I bet it took longer to compose this article than your whole nap would’ve been… get a grip.
The flight attendant and his girlfriend probably do not get the chance to fly together often I’m glad that they had the opportunity to enjoy this 90 minute flight flight attendants work hard if there is an accident it’s their job to get you out safely I don’t envy them for getting to relax in first class for 90 minutes
Another over privileged KAREN….complaining about nothing
The FA is on the plane to do a job and is being paid to do it not to sit with his girlfriend.
Could you upgrade someone to a state room on a ship or on a train for free then hang out with them while your being paid ??NO!!
SHOW ME ANY JOB were you could bring your partner to work, hang out with them NOT DO YOUR JOB and GET PAID????
I WANT THAT JOB.
Damn right AA should FIRE THIS CLOWN and HIRE ONE OF THE 100s of thousands that are UNEMPLOYED and WANT TO WORK!!!
Oh no, imagine the articles that would be written if we took this same lens and observed the “Work” From Home crowd. You know, the people mixing martinis “on the clock” and taking their dogs to the park for 3 hours at a time? Please. This guy is physically showing up for work in the middle of a pandemic, and has to work a public facing role nonetheless. If he has some downtime on a 90 minute flight, then let him be instead of ranting about it in an article like a petulant child.
I think Race could be the kingpin why it bothers the writer that much,
Here is an Idea! How about he upgrade from being a hating snitch class karen? People like that more times than not are miserable in there own life, and can’t stand to see others have low stress moments on their job. I bet this passenger was not even neglected, he was just mad, because he saw somebody not struggling as hard as he should have been. I work at an Amazon facility, and I can tell you I work hard, with detication, to get your quality pakage out to you on time. That being said I have my free moments, or days, when I can chill at work, and nobody is hating nobody is hating, because we all get that every now and then, no need to snitch.
I am EXP and a Million Miler on AA. Under the circumstances outlined, this wouldn’t have bothered me a but. Quiet flight, cabin is served, have at it.
Flight attendants have a lousy job. If you get a little bit of a reprieve, enjoy.
I’ve been doing it for 38 years. Far from lousy. Lousy would be working many many hours a week, traveling on planes working instead of relaxing and then working when you land. I have too many friends that live that life. Definitely not one I would like. You might think my job is lousy but I think it’s Fabulous.
So because the FA didn’t want to watch people sleep or zone out on the flight you have to complain? If no one was sitting in the section who really cares? You don’t pay for the upgrade and guess what she probably didn’t pay to be on the flight to begin with. This entitlement of they got something I didn’t is why we are in every situation we are in today. Mind your own business and don’t worry about what someone else is doing. If they are causing you or someone harm, MOVE ON with your life.
Makes you wonder how much of this is true and not just a sour individual exaggerating in hopes of a free compensation ticket or refund
If you notice, the passenger is anonymous and wishes to remain so.
Your expectations from the FA are unrealistic.
Bruh, so much wrong with this clickbait trash piece. I don’t really even want to interact with it because I’m afraid it will aid you in the algorithm.
First, you’ve noted several times the flight is PSA flight, so they are a different union than AA – even if they are wholly owned. That’s the whole point of them being a separate entity. So attributing this to that group is unjustified. Conclusion – headline complaint unfounded.
Second, your source is wildly misleading in their story, and the details don’t make sense. They complain about the FA in question shirking their responsibilities, but also note that the beverage service was already completed. Then they chatted until 20 minutes prior to arrival. This indicates that the FAs does were, in fact, completed. It notes nothing regarding any attendant call buttons, leading one to believe that either none were used, or were addressed as necessary. Conclusion – this FA had downtime, and chose to use it with a passenger.
Third, based on the evidence provided, we have absolutely no idea what the relationship between the two people is. They could have been brother and sister, they could have been colleagues, or the FA could have just found this passenger to be to his liking and he wanted to get to know her. Perhaps he was giving exemplary service to another passenger instead, because she was a frequent customer on this leg. (Or perhaps had a special need.) Conclusion – we can’t judge this interaction based on your source’s incomplete perspective, so let’s not crucify that FA just yet, shall we?
Fourth, and finally, as a frequent flyer yourself, you should be perfectly aware that air pressure varies widely during flight, and that this has an effect on your ears. Not only does it provide an unpleasant sensation, it also changes one’s perception of sound. The two parties in question likely were unaware they were being disruptive to other passengers, and your source just stewing on it, rather than addressing it is their own issue. In my humble opinion, it’s frankly absurd to expect a silent flight. Getting your knickers in a knot over it helps nobody. Attempting to get a person held accountable for it is not helpful either. Planes are noisy, it’s a fact of life, whether by loud passengers, babies, or even the engine itself. Conclusion – as they say so often on the airport PA system, “see something, say something.” Don’t expect anyone to read your mind as you sit fuming to yourself.
TLDR; PSA is not the same union, don’t mix apples and oranges.
FA did not chat *instead of* working – chatted during downtime.
Upgraded passenger is unknown, FA may have been providing exemplary service.
Planes are loud, hearing changes at altitude, address your issue at the time rather than bemoaning a company publicly.
This has to be a joke right? Are you really that big of a pompis ass to complain about this? I bet the man was just cranky cause he couldn’t get his nap in. And the part about the women grabbing his arm to validate his feelings bahaha…. I’m sure that actually happened. Wow and the “author”, really this is what you’re going to waste your time writing about?
Per usual, another clickbait story about a regional flight attendant giving mainline flight attendants a bad name.
“ While not mainline, this was still an “American Airlines” flight attendant.” – barely. This was a PSA flight attendant. Different unions, different training, and unfortunately, different standards. Think a fast food restaurant worker vs higher end restaurant server. There’s 2 completely different standards. People in this industry hate to acknowledge or admit to the stereotype – but regional FA’s have a sloppy culture with zero sensitivity towards class, period (yes, I would know. I flew for a world class airline in the 80s-early 2000s, left the job to raise my children, decided I missed the lifestyle and started again with a regional airline 20 years later. Worst experience ever.) I would have cringed flying with this individual. It’s an unpopular thing to acknowledge, I understand, but some stereotypes ring true. Can’t blame them much for the lack of incentive, with the poverty level pay (~20k/yr starting out and after 13-20 years seniority, only being able to make less than half of mainline FA’s pay) but i’m so over all of these stories that are constantly regional FA’s. It is your responsibility to strongly differentiate between the two, rather than, “still, an american airlines flight attendant.”
Who cares most flight attendants don’t get to see their family very often maybe this is the only time they have just saying
Lord half these people need to get their head out their asses and worry about themselves, everybody always worried about what the next person is doing, half of them probably just jealous cause they werent in first class, suck it the fuck up and shut up and mind your own damn business
This is a sad article. About 1/4 of the way through it, I could tell there was an axe to grind. If my friend told me about this experience, I would encourage my friend to make a complaint with the airline. I sure wouldn’t publish an article over it. There are much bigger issues in this world than a friend being upset over a service on an airline.
Someone mentioned this is a modern day Karen article. I think that was spot on. Noise cancelling headsets are pretty nice to carry if you travel alot and want to take a nap.
What a load of cheap, unsubstantiated, anecdotal anti-union propaganda.
Doing the right thing when no one is looking..something many people find difficulty doing. If your on duty, do your duty period…Your employer doesn’t owe you crap except your check for honest work.
I wonder if that FA likes to gamble? Why, you ask?
So Wesley Snipes can remind him to always bet on black.
Racist
Why do we need to know about this anecdotal incident? Ok one flight attendant is bad at his job. So the fuck what!!!! Report him to American Airline and move on.
The crazy thing about this story is not one time did I read that he/she asked them to lower their voices because they were disturbing everyone in first class. Are we not adults that we cannot communicate professionally two people? Did the flight attendant break the rules YES however it’s called communication people. If the first class person could have just opened his/her mouth then we probably would not be reading your crazy ass story. What is wrong with everybody, no one wants to communicate with each other anymore. I think people drive off of being miserable and unhappy now. All I’m saying people learn how to communicate to each other and love one another. Because this does not make any kind of sense. I wish I would have been trying to go to sleep and somebody was talking loud through my whole flight and I not say anything to the person now if I say something and then the person didn’t do something about it then we would have had a problem, then maybe I will be writing this article, then maybe I’ll be trying to get this person to lose their job like you are trying to do now and all because you could not professionally communicate to another human being. SMH
You was upset cause you didn’t get upgrade.
Drink water and mind ya business
I don’t understand. Was it too difficult to politely ask them to lower their voices? I mean, if they kept talking loudly after that then I guess you would’ve been a little more justified to write about your experience but this article is pretty pathetic. I’m sorry. Use your voice in moments like those. I’m sure you have better things to write about.
Should have asked them to keep it down on the flight
I can’t believe that this was turned into an article! Waste of a read.. .
Dont’t see why you had to lead this article by trashing the flight attendants’ union.
I’m sorry this made you so butthurt
Weird baseless anti-union sentiment at the top of this poorly written clickbait article. Writer should stick to what he does best, spending paragraph after paragraph not adding any additional information whatsoever.
I believe that all of you are the problem with society! 1)The flight was empty and after service the FA aren’t really obligated to do anything. 2) there was another flight attendant so if you needed anything I’m sure they had no problem getting it. 3) if you had an issue with the volume of them talking why didn’t you kindly ask them to be quieter?? It gets loud on the plane and flight attendants spend 90% of their time on planes so that effects their hearing as well. If the flight was empty and service was down what else did you want them to do? Reorganize snacks while you napped? I don’t think your issue was with them upgrading someone (because people get upgraded all the time). I think your problem was with the volume of the conversation. I think at your big age you should be able to address the issue head on but instead you would rather right an article about for some type of co-sign from strangers? I mean how would you have handled it if it wasn’t a FA and his girlfriend and it was just 2 passengers?
A straight male flight attendant??
Lol talk about a privileged asshole. Get over yourself dude.
So ridiculous. It was a very nice thing to upgrade her seat for the flight. Sure they should have been quieter maybe. I have observed through the years that some passengers want silence on planes and get mad if anyone is talking, so I am not sure this is an accurate description. I do think jealousy is at play here. If they were really bothered why didn’t they say so during the flight? Why didn’t they ask to be moved? As for the attendant it sounds like he did his job at the beginning and end of the flight. There is usually not much during the flight on short hops. The total flight could have been cancelled it sounds like due to few passengers. This author should be happy it wasn’t.
Flight attendants are the Authoritative figure onboard, they have the power to move anyone onboard to a different seat. As for inflight duties , it’s a 90min jump flight, once beverage is done FA take a seat till pre landing checks are necessary. Nothing in the rules says they can’t gab away with passengers weather related or not.
This is what happens when regional airlines only pay $18,000/yr for FAs. Get what you pay for.
I agree that the author was simply unhappy to see the attendant girl friend get an upgrade. I can’t stand people like this who thinks because they can afford first class, no other poor person should come near them. I have a suggestion for this man who want to sleep through his flight in first class, next time, buy your own airplane and no one will dare come near you. Mr reporter, if this poor attendant is fired from his job, you will be very happy.
Ok but male flight attendants are gay. Are they sure that was his girlfriend? Probably more a giiirrrlllfriend.
Agree that the FA is “on the clock”. Agree these 2 were rude. I
Have no issue with the gf being upgraded. Have an issue with their lack of decorum & not being discreet. My issue is with the title of the article. The author states he likes to fly AA…however, the title is a slam.Rather than state this is a regional jet or display a pic of a PSA jet…
Yes, towards the END of the article the “rest of the story” is written. Why? Because most ppl won’t read the entire article to base their comments on.
To be honest you sound jealous. I guarantee if you were the one upgraded we would not be reading this article.
You said the flight was mostly empty…..what therefore was so pressing for the flight attendant to do but give you your briefing you peanut and 1 beverage take your trash and give you salutations when you leave?
Ahhh, the “problems” of rich people.
This sounds made up. ‘a reader, whom I trust’. Not saying it couldn’t happen but it’s not believable being so vague about the details.
Shut up! What a f@cking bitch! Just shut up and drink your kool-aid. You are already at your destination.
Wow!!! Ever heard of guy code? Like you never used your press pass to impress a chick or maybe bent the rules somewhere a little bit? Seriously. None of that effects you or your life so why don’t you just mind your own business read a book or watch a movie and stop being a hater. Nobody likes a tattle tale, did you tell on everyone in school?
@Jack
You, Matt Klint and his friend’s phony indignation are a sad example of everything that’s wrong with our society today. First off, the friend has embellished their experience to the point of absurdity. The definition of “nosey” is: showing too much curiosity about other people’s affairs. In other words, mind your own business. Just get on the plane, put your seatbelt on, have your headset nearby, and shut up. Nobody cares about your made-up drama. We’ve got 800,000 dead from Covid in the US but a flight attendant sits down and talks to another passenger?? That’s the crime here? I don’t want any friends like that.
Second, if Matt Klint truly aspires to be a journalist some day, this is the wrong way to go. If his flying friends are submitting BS and ignorance for content, then Matt too has an empty head. There are two sides to every story, sometimes more. What got presented here as “story” was a little tale of unsubstantiated woe.
No other accounts were offered by “the journalist”, nor did he feel compelled to follow up any possible leads on his scoop of the century. Why not? I think even Matt Klint knows there is nothing to see here but he needs to get paid I’ll presume.
So that leaves you Jack. Since you’re the self-appointed Duke of Assumption here surely it will bother you to learn some facts about yourself. You have a problem. Probably several. You are hateful. Most likely you have very few friends. You have an issue with male flight attendants. Evidently you have issues with gay people too. It’s probably within the realm of belief that you’ve been fired from a job or two with that charming personality of yours. I’ll even make my own assumption here and say you have no pets at home or anything resembling a companion. In short, you hate your life.
Jack went up the beanstalk and now he can’t get down. Better call a shrink because apparently Jack don’t know Jack about Jack. Good luck with that.
Keepin it real,
Jimmy Mack
lol author is so prissy and has some Karen vibes. You were fine. Shutup. The rhetoric you’re using doesn’t fit the situation at all.
Matt clit,name seems about right
We should revoke his status from all flights!! Privileged boy!!
Am I the only one that noticed that this flight wasn’t even operated by AA??? There are 2 flight attendants, so it a a regional airplane (less than 100 passengers) and American doesn’t operate the “American eagle” flights. The flight attendants and pilots for these regionals get paid garbage money and are probably in their 20’s. So who cares ?!
Apparently millions of you…
I don’t believe this story one bit. A male flight attendant with a girlfriend?
I can tell you right now that this story is false. Why do I know this? I have a child who attends school in Tallahassee. You cannot get from Washington DC to Tallahassee on one flight. All flights to Tallahassee go through either Atlanta or Dallas.
Um, I mentioned the flight number…it’s nonstop.
You might have gotten away with your comments if you hadn’t said, “they could have gone back and chatted in economy” Whiçh implies to me who care if one of those people are kept awake, such is their lot in life. Second,there are a lot of things that people are allowed to do on airplanes, including sleep and talk. Last I checked both are allowed in either class.
So I get down to comes down to looking like you are ok with some people being bugged, just not you.
Awwwww poor little baby is upset because some gross coach person got upgraded to 1st class and he had to hear them? Gosh your life must be so difficult. :’(
Unbelievable someone would take the time to complain about this. Talk about living in a bubble. God forbid someone wants to enjoy the perk of first class. It’s a short flight why stress about it.
Wow. This article, along with the 720+ comments it has generated, could’ve all been avoided if the two fare-paying First Class passengers had not been so passive aggressive. This is a case study in toxic passive-aggressive behavior. The healthy and reasonable action would’ve been for the two affected passengers to take their concerns directly to the source…the chatty F/A…by politely requesting that he and his GF either lower their voices or consider taking their conversation to one of the many empty rows in the back. The matter likely would’ve been resolved instantly. Instead, they both sat in their seats and seethed in resentment. Once on the ground, they enrolled each other in their collective resentment toward both the F/A and American Airlines. Still seething in resentment, one of the affected passengers then gossips to an airline industry blogger who writes an entire article about a situation that could implicate the F/A. Should the F/A have upgraded his girlfriend and then fraternized with her in loud conversation? Absolutely not. The deeper issue here though, as I see it, is the failure of two adults to properly manage a situation as it happened in the moment. Failure to not confront and then gossip about it later is just toxic.
I meant, failure TO confront.
I’m surprised someone’s paid to write this trash.
I’m disappointed Google news suggested it.
I can’t help but comment because this “article” is so petty and juvenile. What complete garbage. Get over yourself.
I am definitely not in agreement with what happened but why are they griping to the public and not AA on the his? It’s not a public owned company…
That’s what happens when you start hiring people because they have the “right look”, instead of good customer service skills, attention to details and safety etc
Wow. What a whiner. Seriously, get over your self infatuation. Live and let live. Get some earplugs, anything, but grow up!
Whaaa , Whaaa i didn’t get to take a nap on 90 min flight Whaaa. You are whiny little b.
Honestly this wasn’t to get this far.the complainant simply needed to confront the situation immediately and the let the F/A know his actions are causing him discomfort,it the f/A refuses to comply that makes it perfect to move the matter to the next level.So I believe both the complainee and the complainant made wrong moves.
Wth kind of privilege spilled milk did i just read?
Waaaahhh, i didn’t get my nap on the plane.
Waaaahhhhh, someone had a good time and i didn’t.
Waaaaaaaahhhhhhh, the servant wasn’t serving meeee.
Its a 90 minute flight. Ive had longer sneezes.
Im sorry you didn’t feel you were treated with the high level of PRIVILEGE you have come to feel you are entitled to get.
How dare someone else have a life.
For all you know he wasnt even on duty and was just catching a ride.
Get over yourself.
Id hate to see how you handle overseas flights.
OK Karen…..
In the meantime there’s real problems going on in the world.
Want to solve your melodramatic issue? Politely ask them to keep their voices down or suggest an alternate seat for their discussion instead of having a passive aggressive Karen response like you’ve done here.
Congratulations on typifying American exceptionalism.
Said like a 20 something. It’s OK in your world for others to bend the rules and ignore thier primary obligations. It’s not ok for others to call them out on it right?
There is a obvious social trend to selectively comply with rules. Laws and obligations of late. Its not the development of more haters, its more “entitled” youth coming of age thats making the change.
Exactly spot on. Bravo!
I also prefer AA and switched to them from Delta a few years back. As a frequent business flyer, there are a few things that irritate. One is Staff taking advantage of thier position as presented here. They ultimately get paid by the traveller’s they service. If it’s a boring flight, few passengers, etc. Then read a book and be ready. It’s part of the job. If I don’t elect to or have enough credit on any flight to upgrade to those empty seats, that’s not an opportunity for them to use for personal gain. They obviously have a list of frequent flyers on thier flight… as one astute attendant looked up my status on thier own and passed me a note thanking me for flying with them again after a 16 month gap. How about that upgrade for a prior 500 000 mile a year passenger?
I get what the author is saying, but the guy giving his girlfriend an upgrade is neither here nor there. The real problem is, him not putting on his big boy pants and addressing the situation. First class customers get more attention than anyone else on the plane. I’m sure someone came over to attend him at some point in his flight. He could have easily said something then. There is a saying ‘closed mouths don’t get fed!’
Yes thank you! This! Was just writing this myself…
So, you’re trying to get some rest on a flight and a couple in front of you is being loud.
Option A: politely say, “hey guys, I’m sorry to interrupt your conversation, but I’m trying to get some rest, do you mind keeping it down or switching to another set of seats? Thanks so much.”
As an employee of the airline, there’s a 99.99% chance he apologizes and complies. If he doesn’t, ok then you’ve really got something to gripe about.
Option B: say nothing, sit there stewing in anger, ruminating on this situation, complaining to others, taking it to your writer friend, who then spends hours listening to you, writing, editing, publishing, reading comments, which in all likelihood will get this flight attendant in serious trouble, which will be completely not worth it, especially considering that you don’t know the guy’s situation, his struggles, his consequences he has to face from being penalized or
possibly terminated from you missing out on a nap that you could have had with a simple civil 30-second conversation.
Is this really how we want to treat others and be treated when a correctable mistake is made?
Consumer has no right anymore these days with flying. Kind like take or leave it
No service, do we need fly attendants?
Cut the staff instead service and quality
Staffs are doing nothing anyway
You see the real truth is hidden between the lines, Karen was very upset that she wasn’t so special and that a common person could receive an upgrade to her seat level. How loud were they? Remember A Princes could feel a pea under her mattresses! Keeping it in prospective if the noise is what bothered her than any of the possible solutions available to fix the problem we’re ignored. This demonstrates who Karen is. Consider the source, and the real purpose of her complaint!
The passenger did not buy a non speaking quiet flight. How dare an employee have any perks to his job! I find it difficult to believe the flight attendant and his gf were so loud. If he wanted to talk loud he had an open flight to sit elsewhere. The flight was wide open according to the complainer.
The complainer was mad that someone else got upgraded. It was his first class cabin and he is better than the rest of us.
What if a parent was up there with a baby and the baby was crying? It happens. And, passengers not only complain but want the mother to feel worse by complaining. The mother gets stressed out and the baby cries more. Yes, it has happened.
The problem with society now is that nobody can be kind to one another. Nobody respects anyone regardless of their differences. It is all about me me me.
I’m sorry but this is ridiculous.
I wish my only worry was someone upgrading their girlfriends flight.
I mean come on ppl this is really what you are complaining about while everyone’s dying of covid.
SMH we have to do better people.
Stop being Karen’s!
So you and your friend want him “rooted out”….aka fired. No one in first class had the courage to say anything face to face to him or the other FA, so he must be fired. This is because you all are cowards and feeling powerless. That “power” must be restored, so ruin a guy’s life.
YOU’RE IN FIRST CLASS!!
You should ENJOY it!.
But no…..You, your friend, and anyone agreeing with you are bored, small, cowardly, elitist snobs.
I do understand that one people doing a job should do there jobs. Upgrading your girlfriend was ok no qualms about that. On the other hand 1st class is a premium that cost. So people who buy those tickets should have peace and quiet they deserve. My point although what I am about to say is juvenile, but just imagine if you had a business meeting that started at 6am and ended 10pm you go back to your $300 dollar a night room your dead tired and you have to get up again at 4am to catch a flight but behold the room next to is having a wild party and after the party a load woman is being served by a load moaning man.
You just about pulled your hair out. You get to the airport board your flight ahhhh first class. Plane takes off FA upgrades girlfriend then carries on loudly should I be mad hold on I paid for a 300 a night room and $1000 first class ticket do I deserve to be treated like this. All I can day is FA do your job and treat me like the professional you are. If you can’t get another effin job……
Out of the article this is the only part I SOMEWHAT agree with.
“What disturbed me most was the coach section was quite empty as well. If they wanted to engage in these activities why didn’t they go to the back of the plane? Instead the FA chose an area of the plane where people pay for a premium experience.”
Truly if there is seats available in first class a flight attendant can upgrade whom ever they want. Granted it should be included in the weight and balance, therefore, done before takeoff.
I understand from the article that the flight attendant had finished their inflight services giving them downtime to mingle amongst passengers, which is encouraged. Although, a passenger cannot listen to entertainment without headphones, because it disturbs the cabin environment that goes for voice level volume as well. I simply think the flight attendants judgement call was blinded – they should’ve been conversing in the galley with the seatbelt off or seated away from passengers as much as possible.
Since everyone is putting in their two cents:
I hope this flight attendant didn’t lose their job over something ludicrous but did receive a reality check that you are always in the view of your passengers
So what! You wouldn’t care if your significant other upgraded you! The FA was NOT ignoring their duties. I guess you don’t know what FA’s do when they are NOT serving you. Sounds like you want someone to CANCEL YOU AT YOU AT YOUR JOB. Please think of all the times you could have been fired from your job. Plus all the bad things your company never knew. Please breathe deeply it’s not cool to CANCEL people. The next person could be you!
Horror of horrors! Dinner one chatted loudly on a 90 minute flight! Can’t these plebians take it to coach?!!
This author is a Karen. And a snot
The feeling has history ! We are going Tru emotions, from been treated like cattle or herd , trashed with regulations, manhandled like thieves, been lied many times over flight delays , to fill the plane with an other late flight arrivals of some passengers, no courtesy anymore , and subjected to flight cancellation , and who knows when you get your money back , so frequent flyers know best , and my kids and I were treated to the same experience 15 days before Christmas ,and on our flight back December 29 th. The comparison trashes our respect and the professionalism of many , but AA did more than one to many , with evasives , or abuses , and this is not the only time I read articles of complain , so if the river sound loud CEOS , IT MEANS THE BOAT IS SINKING ! It is also a disgrace reading about eliminating essential courtesy drinks , when for sure none of the high ranks had donated 10% of their lavish salaries in adding better in flight attention ! The actions of a Flight Attendant should be punished the same way if a passenger is asked to get out of the plane ,after all we paid , we bailed those airlines out , we are the the taxpayers , it should be enough , It is time to make them accountable !
This author is so pathetic that he wrote a column about an employee upgrading a passenger and talking during a flight. With all going on in the world nothing else bothered you? We’re there no movie for you to watch? My goodness
Let the dude spoil his girl, be a bro and let the homie slide. Ive worked at plenty of jobs and people always hook up family/friends. Its not supposed to happen but of course it does, we’re human.
His girl probably felt like a queen that day, and I bet he’ll never forget this experience.
Peace and love yall.
The corporations will still make their money.
I doubt this will harm the billion dollar companies any.
Don’t throw the union under the bus because some flight attendant didn’t do their job. That’s ridiculous.
My question to this is. Did you author of this article at anytime ask the couple to tone it down a bit? From. What am seeing or reading, it was not done. Why complain then??? FA do not stand gor the whole flight. After they fi is their task they sit down unless called.
Well there’s a lot of he said/she said being thrown around here. If you weren’t at the scene of this happening this is conjecture at best, sensationalistic fantasy at worst. Regardless this wasn’t an American Airlines flight. For that particular route it would be an American Express operator like a PSA/Envoy. Things that don’t make sense. If this was a non-rev (which a girlfriend would be) and there were seats available in FC they would have been automatically upgraded. There isn’t any enhanced service done at all on that particular route either so I’m confused. This isn’t a factually based story with evidence supporting it. It’s an opinionated piece on a story that may or may not have even happened. Either way do better.
Dude, get over yourself. Whether you like it or not, this is a benefit airline workers get. Whenever a seat is empty, it’s offered to a relative or friend of an airline worker who is hoping to get a flight free or at a discount. It was only a 90 minute flight and they’re talking about getting sleep? Maybe invest in earphones. It’s not like there was a crying child in first class (besides the one who wrote this to complain about it). It was mostly empty and they still served the passengers because the other flight attendant offered to and I doubt they were kept very busy. Everyone still got served, the flight kept going, and you’re complaining because people are laughing. How dare people be happy! God, it’s like joy is a trigger for Karens
Yah you’re right
I don’t know why some people left the issue at hand and is discussing why the author brought his article online.The FA is no baby,he knows better what his duties were,why on earth will he be discussing loudly in a plane instead of doing his work.Upgrading his GF to FC is one thing but sitting and chatting loudly with her is not okay at all.Are there no work ethics anymore?Please,let’s all call a spade a spade.His behaviour wasn’t okay and nobody should justified that.I come in peace
This tone, language, and approach is so incredibly unprofessional and unnecessary. Consider rethinking story choice and topics that don’t slander others inappropriately.
This is so childish that your complaining about a flight attendant having a conversation with their significant other to which you have no idea what they were talking about or the last time they say each other Like seriously just because you pair premium to fly and your miserable doesn’t mean everyone needs to be miserable and unhappy Like you and to the author seriously you took your time to write about this when theirs more pressing matter in the world like let’s get someone fired because they wanted to spend time with someone they love just like the individual said the flight was empty sooooooo why are the complaining like a little spoiled brat
What kinda Karen article is this lmao
The bottom line is a person with flight attendant attire sat down and enjoyed a flight with a significant other. Most employees get perks with their job. So what’s really going on here. Would you have preferred a fight? Oh, I forgot you wanted to sleep. Peaceful sleep is guaranteed at your house, not on a public flight. A flight 1st class nor domestic is not a hospital. Not a mortuary. Right now I only wonder as perfect as you and Ms. Morals are; WHY didn’t you ask the pilot to tell them to lower their voice. You never stated WHAT work he was neglecting. Have you had a professional evaluated your mental health?
Huuuuuuuuuuge Karen energy.
According to the article the flight had alot of empty seats and any one that nonrevs on a flight the first thing they do is get on the list to get a first class seat and since supposedly this was a flight attendant girlfriend they would have already had her upgraded before the flight took off. And no a random just didn’t grab your arm and say what you claimed.
This is another story that is fake a made up to try and cause more drama and get clicks from an entitled person that has nothing better to do than to complain about their privileged bek g over looked.
Maybe try rooting out real corruption in the world where it matters, government, public officials, corporations, the police and military, prison complexes and the systems that fuel them… This “article” is a prime example of lacking any journalistic integrity.
I have worked for a different major airline for 32 years .
It’s wrong to make Assumptions. First standbys fly standby for First class and non revenues passengers get upgraded at the last minute and accreditation the door is closed due to the fact the door needs to be closed the flight attendants have a list . Also. Flight attendants fly in inform all the time as they commute and sit in jump seats as well as regular seats . So you don’t know if they are working or not.
I can also say that lots of people on planes speak loudly and we can’t stop people from having a conversation
Some people don’t like to sleep or can’t . I think this whole article is unfair and a bit spoiled .
I thought this was satire until I read the whole thing and realized it was serious. Talk about First World problems.
This is a website about first world issues..premium cabin travel. Of course…we are not talking war and peace.
I hope everyone here has a chance to have the same experience with their significant other…I have known far too many people who have lost loved ones and would have said the same thing…enjoy your life and your love….WORK IS NOT THE PRIORITY…the passengers on this plane had a choice…and the chose to see that they paid to be entitled..they didn’t choose to see the love in front of them… I feel sorry for tthat they they couldn’t see beyond themselves.
You sound like a little girl with all your complaining. Big mad you weren’t invited to have a conversation? Grow the hell up. Your kind of behavior sounds like you were sitting right where you deserved, Karen.
In conclusion… maybe the editors of this magazine should look for a more talented writer and pass on Mr Matthew Klint.
The story, fake or true, is one degree of being entitled, but you, the author, asking for the airline to investigate this minor occurrence, is one step too far. Would you be happy if that flight attendant loses his job? I bet you would.
A lot of readers here would be really happy if we don’t see your name again as a writer for this site.
Lol – he’s the editor and he produces 85% of the content.
perhaps the author of this article is poorly scripted a.i. bot writing and publishing absolute nonsense to lure sensible people and complete idiots who agree with it into engaging for traffic .
Just as an FYI, the flight attendants job is primarily to get you safely off of a plane in an emergency and to maintain safety during the flight. That is the number 1 reason there are flight attendants onboard. Slinging drinks and peanuts is secondary.
I believe safety is a given (and realize that is issue number one), but the whole “primarily here for your safety” line is a red herring meant to skirt providing excellent service, which should absolutely be a cornerstone of the job in the USA, as it is in most other places in the world for FAs.
This complaint seems a bit excessive for missing a nap. What would have been wrong with asking them to keep it down? It’s also interesting that the complainer felt it necessary to mention the other passenger validation. This could have been addressed directly with the flight attendant. The fact that many of the commenters believe that missing a nap in flight warrants a flight attendant receiving disciplinary action or possibly losing their job is what’s wrong with the world.
This is PSA Airlines, NOT American Wholly owned or not, I’m sure if you only used PSA in the headline, the story wouldn’t have trended.
This is PSA Airlines, NOT American Airlines. There is a difference. Different leadership, different hiring requirements, different pay scale etc…..Wholly owned or not, I’m sure if you only used “PSA Airlines” in the headline, the story would have went no where. Irresponsible.
There’s but one class of people flying on commercial flights. Not to mention it was American Airlines. Get over yourself and every miserable soul who shares your false sense of entitlement over what others do in economy first class. This isn’t the 60’s. You can either upgrade your lifestyle or enjoy your bag of lab grown peanuts in your AA and Spirit Flights.
Hats off to the guy, good job
This person sounded so hurt. Like they literate wrote an article on nonsense. You do know if you’re nice to the FA and the plane is empty, you can sit where you want and drink whatever you want. Just be nice.
I think we can all agree on two things after reading this article:
1) Matthew (the writer) needs to get laid
2) Matthew (the writer) needs a pair of headphones
Change my mind.
Um, I wasn’t on the flight…
You not being on the flight yourself is the main reason you shouldn’t have written this article calling for someone to lose their job. It wasn’t your experience and you don’t have all the facts. You should’ve just been a friend and let your friend vent about THEIR experience and gone to have coffee or drinks afterwards. Not use your POSITION and platform to seek vengeance for your friends bad experience, if we can even call it a bad experience. What if the readers of this tasteless article you wrote called for you to be fired? You wouldn’t feel good about that would you? No!
So when writing this article you never asked your friend if they or the other passenger asked the FA to please be quieter or what services the FA wasn’t providing? Cause even in their story they never say they/anyone alerted the offending FA or the other on duty and just assume the FA wasn’t doing their job meaning they hadn’t even been directly denied/delayed a service t0 know for sure.
I get being shy as I’m that way but if this was egregious enough to complain about later why wasn’t it enough for anyone to complain about then? Cause being accommodated isn’t solely on an employee to figure out as they can’t read minds to know of an issue, use your words politely first.
Lastly why start off bringing the union into this? That makes it all feel like a conclusion looking for a premise and in the haste of doing so basic questions were ignored.
I would like to say do we really have nothing else going on in are lives that we complain about the most stupid crap, look what is going on in this world people are dying things have actually been horrible for all of us, but we choose to complain about somthing so ridiculous. I’ve learned as I’ve gotten older and also with what’s been going on in this world, that we really don’t have anything to be complaining about. So what if he was talking to his girlfriend, sorry you couldn’t sleep for a whole 90 minute flight. Get over it, pick your battles, and this is a really stupid one.
Most stupid and selfish article ever. Ridiculous!
I think this article is the biggest waste of time imaginable ! How petty! Yes Mr. Grey Poop-on you are making too much of a big deal out of nothing! I’m sorry but if you’re stupid enough to pay a “premium price” for a 90 minute flight then chances are your snobby standard is the epitome of what needs to be adjusted- your attitude, AKA: retail America! Get real I mean exactly how much sleep are you planning to get on a 90 minute flight anyway genius? You stated this injustice to your peace was finally over when the flight attendant had to start his landing duties… approx 20 minutes before actually landing… ok well you also said he didn’t call his girlfriend up to first class until after take off, And after the beverage duties were done for the plane, dare I deem it safe to say that that would be approximately about another 20 minutes of time? So on a 90 minute flight 40 of those minutes you weren’t being bothered right?? So this journalist is so hard up for material with nothing better to do, or write about that he’s actually publishing this crap over what? Oh over HIS BUDDY being inconvenienced for a whopping 50 minutes at best? Gee.. I don’t know how all of you idiots that are applauding this article missed the irony in this, but this guy writing this article is just as bad as the flight attendant with the girlfriend !! He’s probably getting someone in a lot of trouble, if not fired over something that literally all of us have done in some way! Whatever their job or career may be, whatever strings they can pull, or whatever connections might be had..every guy, whether they’re a flight attendant for American Airlines or the movie theater guy taking the ticket stubs in , every guy will go above and beyond out of his way to try and impress that one special love interest, I think the author is a total douche And I might as well just go ahead and add that we don’t know if this story is even real anyway! Please, the fact that the press is allowed to have these unidentified informants that don’t ever have to be held accountable for spreading whatever gossip literally means this S&$@ is probably made up! I’m just supposed to take the authors third party account and jump on the hate bandwagon with my pitchfork right? Haha, omg it’s just so crazy to read and even crazier that response after response after response is showing support for this stupid propaganda!
Right on Amy!!!! I was thinking the exact same thing. I truly believe this is complete BS,. First class exit the plane first, why would a woman on first class wait around for coach class to stream by and then pick this one person out to complain too. Doesn’t pass the smell test. Also, if I paid for a first class ticket and was being disturbed you bet your ass I’d be politely asking these two to keep it down. Snobs don’t tolerate being disturbed. Karen would have said something. Again, doesn’t pass the smell test. There is very little journalism anymore, just buckets of this kind of gossip rag BS.
You sound like a Karen was your intention with this article to get him fired?? if you were tired go to sleep what do you care what the person next to you is doing. Thye were talking your seriously writing an article complaining about people talking…You say your hardworking and you paid for first class but what, you think he got those seats working only a month with the company?? He worked just as hard it may be a meager service but those are days he was not able to spend with his girlfriend because he was working. Do not take away his one company perk by causing an unnecessary scene because you didn’t know how to mind your own business and go to sleep. We all have headphones and first class gives them to you for free. So no I don’t think the flight attendant did anything wrong their humans not robots with lives. What was suppose to be a sweet trip for them you probably turned into a nightmare by causing him his job or perks
Regional jet service airlines have first class? Wow! I travel this way a the time and Ive never seen that on any of them. Must be something new as in new yesterday. BTW, the front of the airplane is not ‘First Class’ its just wider seats, sounds to me like somebody dont know what tgeycare talking about! Oh and PSA is not ‘fully owned’ by AA either, they arent owned by AA at all, they are a contractor flying short haul exactly like Republic Airways is to Delta.
Someone better get KPMG on the phone… If this is true, then there look to be some major inaccuracies in AA’s 10-K!
It was an employee. Could not ask them to be quiet?
All I am reading here is a bunch of people who are jealous of people who fly in first class. Save your money, get a better paying job and buy your ticket in first.
People whining about “those rich assholes” are the Karen’s.
To many times American Airlines is used for click bait. This is one of the regional airlines that flies under the name of American Airlines this is not a main line flight just for the record .
Yes, it is indeed not mainline…but I still maintain it is American Airlines.
You sound like a Karen was your intention with this article to get him fired?? if you were tired go to sleep what do you care what the person next to you is doing. Thye were talking your seriously writing an article complaining about people talking…You say your hardworking and you paid for first class but what, you think he got those seats working only a month with the company?? He worked just as hard it may be a meager service but those are days he was not able to spend with his girlfriend because he was working. Do not take away his one company perk by causing an unnecessary scene because you didn’t know how to mind your own business and go to sleep. We all have headphones and first class gives them to you for free. So no I don’t think the flight attendant did anything wrong their humans not robots with lives. What was suppose to be a sweet trip for them you probably turned into a nightmare by causing him his job or perks so great job Karen way to whine go find a real story to write
I totally agree with you!! I bet if they were to very obnoxious but paying customers he would bet be complaining!!
What bothers me the most is that the writer of this article chose to insult not only the flight attendant in question, but all flight attendants by calling the job they do as “Already meager”. It was a disgusting comment and gives insight into what this writer thinks of those in this line of work. Live and let’s fly should reprimand the writer the very same way the writer is calling for American Airlines to do something to the flight attendant in question. In a time when people in the service industry are being attacked for doing their jobs and following the rules set forth by those in higher positions, working more days and longer hours in those days due to labor shortages and having to deal with people such of this article that seek to deem their work as simply “meager”; how about making your public call for someone to lose their job be based on your own experience rather than the hear say of another. Stop sitting high and looking low at those in the service industry by calling the difficult jobs they do as “Already meager” because your friend could’ve been on a flight that didn’t have any flight attendants. Then to suggest that any behavior deemed inappropriate be conducted in the back area of the plane as if those people in the back didn’t pay for their ticket as well. I guess because they didn’t spend the extra money to sit in first class they aren’t worthy of having a pleasurable flight like those in first class according to this article. This article didn’t mention whether or not the person that actually on the flight asking the flight attendant and his guest, because how do we know that was his “girlfriend”, if they wouldn’t mind bringing down the volume of their conversation?
I only fly first class whether it’s domestic or international and I could not care less about whether an FA upgraded his gf and they were chatting, good for them, let people live a little, everyone here is commenting on paying for the “experience”, you know how many times I’ve sat in first class and someone next to me has snored at an ungodly volume, too numerous to count, I didn’t write an article about it, I put on noise canceling headphones like any other normal person would do. I like first class for the room, food and drinks but the people are generally pretentious and annoying as reiterated in this article.
No surprise as AA has the worst Flight Attendants in the business in my opinion. I sat up front from Miami to Puerto Rico & the Flight Attendant wore Apple Airpods while serving us. Eventually she went to only 1 as clearly she couldn’t hear us. Truly AMAZING!!!
So, 90 minutes of your life may cause someone to lose their job. How about we act like adults and say something to the offender tight away and not write an attention seeking article? “Excuse me Sir, I was hoping to sleep on the flight. Could you keep your conversation a little quieter?’ I mean, give people a chance to fix it…