Tuesday, August 18, 2009

On Break



Today I was working on an international flight. Loads of passengers, many of them from Arabic countries. The briefing before the flight is long and extensive. We are prepared for people who don't speak our language. We have international newspapers, extra pillows and special meals catered. During the flight some of us play with the children. The whole cabin crew is as charming and caring as we can be. After the flight a lot of passengers compliment us on a "perfect flight" and we are proud of our tact and understanding.

Then there is the last flight of the day. Just a short hop, really. Only a handful of passengers. A new cockpit crew.
After we land most of the crew is getting into the bus. The plane is empty and quiet. But my colleague is still in the galley up front.
"What was the captain complaining about earlier? " I ask him.
"Nothing really." He replies. "It was really childish and I think he overreacted. He is a bit odd."

Which is exactly when the door to the restroom next to the galley opens and our captain gets out. And I just know that he has understood every single word.
Our tact must have taken a break.

No comments: