Tell him that other carriers have a "sterile cockpit" policy (like DAL) below 10,000 feet for safety reasons. No small talk, no chit chat until cruise. Tell him what a great idea you think that is.

The earlier poster had it I think. Tell him. He probably just thinks he is being hip and cool and not realise he is being an arse. Let him know soon because he's probably doing it with everyone. You don't need to be confrontational, this is information that he can use to good effect. Who wants a reputation like that?

http://img.skitch.com/20080214-par3r...smx29ygqty.png

Or you can give him a Cole Haan Leather Messenger Bag and make him look gay and happy!

Colgan decided not to get a Union so he will have to handle it alone.

well in that case just punch him the mouth and say shut the ****** UP!

That's old school!

He'll shut up. Heck, he'll probably be the one to call in sick. If it doesn't, ask one of the male flight attendants for some homo-erotic porn and next time he pulls out his IPOD, ask him if he would like to read the magazine you brought.

I believe THAT will do the trick!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"I yelled "Turn that G.. D... thing OFF!" A few minutes later, he asked me if the iPod really bothered me that much, "Yeah, when I can't hear a D... thing you are saying, it does."


Personally I think you said exactly the right thing it it wasn't too harsh at all. I've said simimiar phrases in similar situations many a time! and it usually worked.

Enforce the sterile cockpit -
No non-essential conversation below 10,000' and nothing within 1000' of a target altitude.
If they still wish to talk, remind them about the sterile cockpit and if they STILL want to talk, then you can just ignore them for anything that's not flight related. I know it may be difficult to do, but if you stop responding (no head nodding either!), they will stop talking - Everyone eventually gets the message.

Thanks for all the input.

I want to keep the problem between us: I have never thought of running up the chain of command unless there is absolutely, positively no other way. That is why I have sought your ideas.... and you have given me several.

I will start with another friendly chat before flight. If needed, which I expect it will, remind him nicely and ON THE TAPE that the sterile cockpit light is on. And keep doing it as necessary until he gets the hint. If he thinks I am being a jerk, so be it.

By the way, the award for most creative suggestion goes to:

but I think I will just gaze into his eyes and say, "You know, I've always loved you." I just hope he knows I am a pitcher not a catcher :)

Wish me luck!

Thanks
j