Originally Posted by
IrishTiger
I haven't been left behind before, but I've been nervous about it a few times. I'm curious, do we have a right to request to see the captain? I'd say about 60% of the time the CA comes to the boarding area before the flight, either to use the restroom, or to get food/coffee. But if I request to see the captain, does he/she need to allow me to do so? If that doesn't happen, can I request a supervisor?
Also, when I see the crew at the gate, I really feel awkward about going up to say hello. I did it yesterday, because the CA was waiting for the airplane to show up, and he was alone. I just feel like I'm interrupting something, so I'd prefer not to do it in the gate area. There have been a few times when they have approached me however, which is nice.
Even though I'm an F/O, I always try to look for jumpers, and I'll approach them in the gate area to let them know I'm aware they are here, and I will make sure they gain access to the aircraft. I always tell them to stop up front and say hello to the CA, but I think it just eases some nerves if they know someone is aware of their presence.
Irish,
You could ask to see the captain but there is no "right" to see or speak to the captain that I know of. I understand what you mean about interrupting in the gate area. When I'm jumpseating, I will go up to the captain or FO if they are in the gate area and look like they are not busy. (I jumpseat alot out of uniform.) A couple of times when the captain has been at the agent desk and looked busy and when I have been unsure of gate agent cooperation or I think they have forgotten about me, I will query the agent (how is the jumpseat looking? etc) loud enough for the captain to hear! It's worked every time!
Bravo! And keep doing what you are doing in regards to your last paragraph. I try to keep an eye out for a jumpseater but two sets are always better than one.
Denny