XHooker

Otto gives good advice, I think he and I fly for the same company. In addition, I give the route of flight just before the pre-departure PA, which I make as soon as the last passenger has boarded and I give it again at top of climb along with an ETA and reminder to adjust their watches to the destination time zone. Yeah, I know most people can't hear it, aren't listening, or don't care, but maybe someone is listening and does care. Down play mechanical issues. Don't lie, but don't unnecessarily scare nervous fliers. Also listen on the PA before you start talking so you don't talk over a flight attendant or gate agent's PA. On the 737NG, use the handset instead of the pedestal mike, less chance of doing your PA on center freq and it stops the movie as well.

I don't know why so many guys are giving you a hard time about this, it's a very different audience from a fighter brief. Last, my favorite joke about PAs..."How do you keep a secret from a flight attendant? Make a PA."