Happened to a friend of mine as the crew walked into the gate area. He stopped, pointed his finger right in the guys face and called him an "*******". Informed the gate agent and called the CP right away. Refused to fly until a blood test was completed, so the cops were called. Flight was delayed for a few hours. Passenger got on another flight.

And he WAS accused.

What did he call him?

I think this is an outstanding thread. I never thought of the implications of a simple remark (or question) from a passenger. For a former military guy, career protection is not "right there" in the front of my mind when any of these situations arise. It's good to hear the "been there, done that" anecdotes from those who have had it happen to them or someone they know.

All revenge fantasies aside, I now know that I'd definitely give the CP a call and remove myself from the flight (if working it) until there is no doubt as to my sobriety. JSing home? I guess I need to dig in to the FOM and see if it's addressed.

Excellent thread!

Here's what happened to me:

I was putting in the code to the jetway door and some woman said, "Where have you been? The bar?"

I said, "Come with me," and walked her over to the CSA.

"This woman has just made a public accusation that I've been drinking. Unless you want me to delay this flight for two hours while I get an alcohol test, you might want to explain to her why that was inappropriate."

Then I went about my business.

Thread drift. Looking for opinions on this self-induced situation. I've walked on the plane on a few occasions while the passengers were loading. If the FAs back is turned, I'd say something like "Excuse me, Miss. I'm deathly afraid of flying. Do you have any recommendations?" Every time, my remark has caused chuckles from the passengers within earshot, especially when the FA turns around and sees that it's the FO making the remark.

Now I thought that it was pretty funny, but I'm wondering if there could be any backlash from some innocent humor if there actually WAS a white-knuckle flyer in the immediate area?

Thanks for your thoughts/opinions!

Just a thought, but a remark like that could undermine the confidence the passengers have in your professionalism. While most would recognize it as a joke, there are some who won't.

Flying USED to be fun. They're finding ways every day to make it not fun.

You got that right.

Amen! What a bunch of overly sensitive thin skinned Marys we have out there.

Funny stuff. When I'm done with the walk around and the pax are boarding, I usually ask the FA where we are going. The FA is usually the only one to take me seriously. Usually get a few laughs which says alot for my pathetic attempt at a sense of humor.