Originally Posted by docav8tor

RANT INCOMING (WIFE FA)

The COVID hangover is real. Too many Flight Attendants simply do not want to work, and unfortunately that attitude reflects poorly on everyone. Many people on the line are frustrated with the growing sense of laziness—whether it’s openly discussed or not. As I’ve said before, there are good people on both sides of the door, and most of us know who they are. Sadly, the new “gauge” of credibility seems to be the length of someone’s employee number rather than the quality of their work.

A surprising number of LUV Flight Attendants either lack—or choose not to use—basic common sense. For example, why would you not move a passenger from 1E to 1D while still on the ground if the seat is empty? At the same time, many customers have clearly never flown on an aircraft with assigned seating, which means there’s also a responsibility to educate the public. Instead, some attendants resort to barking announcements as their only means of control—because the “testing” phase for assigned seating never truly got off the ground.

Operational awareness is also lacking. Why didn’t management anticipate that overhead bin space would become an issue? Before assigned seating, there was a specific announcement about open seating and bag stowage that—according to the manual—was intended for use when the aircraft was about two-thirds full. So why are some crews making that announcement repeatedly when there are only five preboards? Sometimes the best approach is simply to say less.

There’s also an overreliance on treating the manual as literal scripture rather than a guide to workflow. The manual outlines the flow of operations, not rigid rules for every moment. Yet we see attendants immediately grabbing trash bags and gloves the moment the last drink is served, or discarding open cans after the first service on a long haul—despite refills, a second service, and water or coffee still to come. That’s unnecessary waste.

Announcements are another area ripe for improvement. Frankly, recorded announcements would be welcome in many cases. The tired 1970s jokes have long run their course, and some attendants reading announcements sound unprepared or disengaged.

Professional appearance and basic discipline also matter. Why hasn’t management addressed the uniform issue—like biker boots in the middle of August? Everyone has challenges in life, but that doesn’t mean we should stop taking pride in our appearance. Set your alarm. Show up clean and presentable. Be ready before you reach the lobby.

Punctuality and teamwork are equally important. Be on the van when it’s scheduled to leave so the crew can actually grab a coffee or something to eat before working a flight. Pay attention to the details that reflect professionalism: don’t touch the rim of a cup when serving a drink, and there’s no need to shout “trash” when you’re walking down the aisle with a bag that clearly indicates what you’re collecting.

Communication within the crew should also be more efficient. “C” can brief the OWWE at any time—so why wait until the last possible moment for such an important responsibility? Even with seat maps, some attendants still wait for permission to start the briefing. Why? The OWWE briefing should be simple and concise: remind, requirements, reseat.Nothing more is necessary.

And finally, let’s address roles clearly: “D” does not stand for “does nothing.” The job is straightforward—greet, assist passengers, and close bins. Do the job.

Carry on.