Surprising Number of Travelers Do Tip Flight Attendants, Survey Shows

Flight attendants typically don't get tips, at least, that's what many might think. But a new pool shows that a surprisingly high number of travelers do actually tip their flight attendant.

It's normal to tip taxi drivers, airport helpers, hotel bellhops and of course restaurant waiters, but flight attendants are one of those in the travel industry that usually don't get tips. However according to a poll posted by Airfarewatchdog, a surprising 27 percent of 900 people claim that they do tip their flight attendants. Of those, 20 percent said they tip as a thanks for a good job and seven percent tip as a reward for making them more comfortable.

However some say that tipping a flight attendant is wrong. Corey Caldwell, a spokesperson for the Association of Flight Attendants, told USA Today that "Passengers should not tip flight attendants because flight attendants should not accept tips. As professionals, as first responders, just like police and fire fighters, a flight attendant's first mission is to maintain the safety and security of passengers in the cabin."

Some airline tell their flight attendants straight out that they're not allowed to accept tips, such as United Airlines and others. They'll accept verbal thank yous, but payment is a no-no.

Even if a flight attendant goes above and beyond to make a passenger feel comfortable or at ease, they're sill not allowed to accept money. However United spokesman Luke Punzenberger says they gladly accept comments.
"United does appreciate hearing positive comments about our crews and employees," he told USA Today. "We recommend that passengers go to our website to share their experiences."

Airfarewatchdog founder George Hobica believes that flight attendants should get tips like other people in the travel industry, but that doesn't mean he tips in money.

"I see no reason not to tip flight attendants. But my preferred way of saying thank you is to bring on boards a (factory sealed) container of chocolates, shortbread cookies, or other treats," Hobica told USA Today.