A flight attendant has disclosed the genuine reason passengers receive a welcome aboard planes, and it has little to do with traditional manners or customer service. The customary greeting at aircraft doors serves a critical safety function that many travellers are unaware of.
The Hidden Purpose Behind the Boarding Welcome
Most air passengers are familiar with the warm reception from flight attendants during boarding, often involving smiles and directions to seats. While widely assumed to be a display of hospitality or a final check of boarding passes, the primary motive is far more practical. According to a serving flight attendant, the welcome allows crew members to conduct a visual assessment of passengers from head to toe before take-off.
Assessing Passenger Fitness and Identifying Assistants
In a viral TikTok clip, a flight attendant known as MrsMiva, who claims to work for TUI at Stuttgart airport, explained that this process helps determine if passengers are "too drunk or sick to fly." Additionally, the greeting enables attendants to identify individuals who could assist in emergencies, known as able-bodied assistants (ABAs). The video has garnered over 18 million views, sparking widespread discussion online.
Commenters, including a self-identified flight attendant of eight years, confirmed the policy, noting its importance for safety protocols. The assessment is particularly crucial for passengers seated near emergency exits, who must be physically capable and willing to help in unlikely crisis scenarios.
Emergency Exit Seat Requirements
Emergency exit seats, such as those on rows 1, 16, or 17 in some aircraft, offer extra legroom but come with significant responsibilities. Airlines like Ryanair enforce strict conditions for these seats, including that passengers must be over 16, physically able to assist, not require special assistance, and not travel with infants. Ryanair's terms allow seat changes for operational, safety, or security reasons, underscoring the priority of preparedness.
This revelation has led to varied reactions from travellers, with some recalling "really chill" attendants and others appreciating support during health issues. The practice highlights how routine airline procedures are designed with safety in mind, blending customer service with essential security measures.
