Most people would agree that flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from one place to another. Not only is it efficient, but it’s also one of the safest modes of transportation.
That said, many passengers still feel uneasy about boarding a plane and soaring six miles above the ground. It’s natural to feel a bit nervous, but thankfully, flight attendants are there to greet us with a warm smile and help us feel at ease.
When you step onto a plane and a flight attendant says hello, you probably respond with a quick "hi” or "hello” in return. What you might not realize, though, is that your response carries more weight than you think. In fact, how you answer could determine whether you’re allowed to stay on the flight—or be escorted off.
This might sound surprising, but it’s no small matter. Your reply helps flight attendants assess your condition. If your response raises red flags, you could be flagged as a potential risk and removed from the plane. This isn’t just about being polite; it’s about ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone on board.
Flight attendants aren’t just being friendly when they greet you—they’re also listening carefully to how you respond. Your tone, speech, and demeanor can indicate whether you’ve had too much to drink or if you’re unwell. Either scenario could pose a risk to passengers and the flight itself. We’ve all seen videos of people being removed from flights, and while it’s not always clear why, a poor response to a simple greeting could be the reason.
Iona Iachim, a flight attendant, highlighted this in a TikTok video, explaining that their greetings aren’t just about courtesy. They’re a way to assess whether a passenger is too intoxicated or ill to fly safely. This sentiment was echoed by another flight attendant from a Hungarian budget airline, who emphasized the importance of these interactions in ensuring a safe journey for everyone.
Safety is a top priority, whether on the ground or in the air. However, once a plane is airborne, options for dealing with problematic passengers are extremely limited. That’s why flight attendants are so vigilant during boarding.
So, the next time you’re greeted by a flight attendant, remember it’s not just a friendly gesture—it’s a crucial safety check. They’re not trying to get to know you personally; they’re making sure you’re fit to fly and won’t pose a risk to yourself or others once the plane takes off.
