Originally Posted by
dera
It's just basic courtesy and manners.
It's like when you're in Whole Foods and they have samples. Do you say "I'm taking this" or "Can I have one of these?".
When you have to come up and introduce yourself, might as well be polite. It doesn't cost anything.
I always make a point on any flight I’m on to go up front and ask the Captain for his permission to catch a ride wherever I’m going. It’s a courtesy and a tip of the hat to the Captain. I appreciate the same when I am up front.