A gate agent has garnered attention for delivering an impassioned address to passengers whose flight was delayed for eight hours, highlighting the challenges faced by airline crew members. The episode played out in one of the nation’s largest airports. The brilliant gate agent took the opportunity, while everyone waited impatiently, to remind travelers that they should respect flight attendants.
Ben Schlappig, an aviation expert and blogger, praised the gate agent’s ability to “strike the perfect tone” in her speech. We loved her message, which was anything but a “meek little talk,” he said, stressing how inspiring and hopeful her message was. The speech spread like wildfire after debuting on Instagram, where followers quickly began reacting. And passengers hailed her dedication to fostering positivity and connection aboard the planes.
In her speech, the gate agent addressed the crowd directly, saying, “When you get on that aircraft, let me tell y’all something… Don’t get smart with my flight attendants.” She implored passengers to understand that there are bad days for airline crew members too. They’re having a tough day too, just as we are,” she said, driving home the need for understanding under the stress of travel.
Schlappig pointed out that many gate agents should be accustomed to dealing with apathy from would-be passengers, which only makes this agent’s response more impressive. He remarked, “So many gate agents are indifferent and seem like they don’t really care, while this woman obviously cares.” Her speech had a profound effect. It produced a valuable “teachable moment” that could bring air travelers back to the reality of what they all go through in air travel.
The agent continued her heartfelt plea, saying, “The same aircraft that’s coming out, the same people that are on that aircraft, it’s the same people that have been waiting as long as you wait, or maybe longer.” She appealed to passengers: “So, please, y’all, please, I’m asking. Do it for me. Be nice to them.”
The emotional weight of her words resonated with many viewers online. One commenter expressed that the speech made them cry, while another airport worker praised her for fostering teamwork among staff. Schlappig further commended her actions, stating, “Let’s be clear, what she’s doing here is totally selfless.”
One commenter, who said he was a 43-year veteran airline employee, applauded the gate agent’s stance. Their wide-ranging experience gives weight to the praise. He stressed that these collective efforts are extremely important. Particularly in an industry where crew are often on the receiving end of passenger ire, their welfare is critical.
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