When you board a plane, you can encounter a friendly greeting from a flight attendant. Each passenger received a pleasant ‘hi’. While it appears to be a simple courtesy, this interaction serves a much more important purpose than merely being courteous.

The True Purpose Behind the Greeting

Responding to a flight attendant’s greeting is more than just being courteous; it is also part of their job to protect passenger safety. This brief interaction is a subtle diagnostic tool for determining a passenger’s state, particularly about alcohol intake. As many people have a drink or two at the airport bar before boarding, flight attendants must determine whether any customers are too intoxicated to fly safely.

Spotting Potential Issues

Passengers who have consumed too much can pose a safety risk. Anecdotes abound of passengers who are so intoxicated that they are unable to safely navigate the aircraft, resulting in chaotic circumstances. One unforgettable event included a man who made the entire plane giggle as he struggled to walk down the steps after too much drinking. Flight attendants attempt to avoid such situations by detecting symptoms of alcohol during their initial welcomes.

Evaluating Passenger Readiness

According to Wizz Air flight attendant Iona Iachim, the greeting is a means to determine whether customers are too inebriated or unwell to fly. This examination is critical for ensuring a safe atmosphere within the confines of an airplane. Flight attendants are taught to identify indicators of intoxication or illness. These factors can compound into larger problems throughout the journey.

Identifying Potential Helpers

Beyond detecting potential problems, the welcome has another essential purpose: identifying passengers who could help in an emergency. By interacting with passengers during boarding, flight attendants may rapidly determine who is likely to remain calm and capable in an emergency. This knowledge offers them a mental map of where these helpful individuals are seated in case they require aid throughout the flight.

Debunking Myths: It’s Not About Attraction

For illustrative purposes only.
Some passengers may interpret the friendly welcome as a sign of attraction, but this is rarely the case. While flight attendants retain a professional tone, their primary focus is on safety and efficiency. However, there is some levity behind the scenes; the term ‘bob’ may be used as a playful code among the staff meaning ‘best on board,’ referring to guests they enjoy.

Navigating In-flight Etiquette
While the contact may appear cordial at times, this professionalism should not be misinterpreted as an invitation to flirt. Flight attendants like to maintain a respectful and professional attitude at 30,000 feet. If you want to communicate further, the best way is to offer your contact information quietly as you disembark.

When Safety Is Imperative

Finally, the seemingly simple act of greeting passengers has multiple purposes for flight attendants. It assists in ensuring safety, assessing potential issues, and identifying useful allies in an emergency. So, the next time you board a plane and receive a friendly greeting, remember that it is part of a sophisticated system designed to keep everyone safe and happy in the air.