What’s a popular subject among cabin crew members?
The call button.
Its usage varies greatly, depending largely on geography. In the Western market, it is known as the ‘Emergency Flight Attendant Call Button’, implying that it should only be pressed during emergencies. I have witnessed flight attendants responding to the call by asking about the nature of the emergency.
So, in North America, my advice is to only press the call button if it is absolutely necessary or if you wish to make a purchase, as the crew doesn’t mind it in those cases since they receive a commission.
Former Emirates flight attendant Jay Robert reveals the do’s and don’ts of using the call button
On the other hand, in places like India and Pakistan, passengers use the call button excessively. In my previous airline, we would receive numerous calls even before the plane took off. We would simply acknowledge them due to their abundance.
For most parts of the world, the call button is referred to simply as the call bell, and the cabin crew generally doesn’t mind its usage for service requests unless it is being abused.
However, there are some guidelines you should follow to maintain a positive relationship with your flight attendants.
If you have a genuine emergency and need to attract the crew’s attention, press the bell and continue to do so until someone responds.
It is common for the crew to initially overlook the call or take some time to respond, depending on the size of the aircraft and the number of crew members on board. If the bell keeps ringing, they will understand that something is wrong and come as soon as possible.
Jay (above) runs the popular Fly Guy’s Cabin Crew Lounge network
When it comes to service-related requests, avoid pressing the call button during busy periods, such as boarding.
If you are thirsty and have just arrived from the airport, you could have obtained a beverage in the terminal.
During this time, the crew is occupied with seating and securing the cabin to ensure an on-time departure and smooth journey to your destination.
If you really need a drink, walk towards the galley and make your request in person.
If the crew is conducting meal service in the cabin and you require something, pressing the call button at that moment can be highly bothersome as they are serving up to 600 people simultaneously. They will attend to you shortly, so please be patient.
Once children discover that it makes a sound, they tend to repeatedly press the button. This distracts the crew from important tasks.
When you press the bell, make all your requests at once!
Nothing annoys the crew more than receiving multiple requests one after another. So, ask for everything you need in a single instance.
The cabin is long, and there are other passengers who also require assistance. Please respect the crew’s time and energy.
Avoid ringing the bell for trivial requests like requesting a tissue to blow your nose when there are washrooms just a few feet away. I have had passengers ring the bell asking for a tissue in such situations.
Parents should ensure that their children do not treat the call button as a toy. Once children discover that it makes a sound, they tend to repeatedly press the button. This distracts the crew from important tasks.
Lastly, remember that sitting for long periods can negatively affect your circulation and overall health. If you need something, it is best for both you and the crew to get up, stretch your legs, and walk to the galley to make your request.
Jay, a former senior cabin crew member for Emirates, shares more insights on his social media channels: www.instagram.com/aflyguytravels and www.facebook.com/aflyguyslounge.
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