Dear Sky Steward,

I was wondering why business class flights offer so much alcohol on board when it seems, to me and my husband at least, that the attendants get visibly tense whenever someone agrees to accept a drink.

We save up for one or two big overseas trips in business a year, and we’re foodies that really love and appreciate a good meal and interesting wines. Two drinks from the time I board till the time I land is really the absolute limit for me (I’m kind of a shrimp), but my husband will usually accept something interesting if it’s being offered… But it always seems that they kind of hope you don’t accept the offer.

 My husband is a tall guy who grew up in an important German wine region (he can handle alcohol), and might ask a question about the wine that’s being offered because he’s genuinely curious. He won’t try something unless he really thinks he might enjoy it but he keeps it brief and friendly, doesn’t make a fuss, and he is very careful to be considerate of the attendant’s time and patience. We’re really friendly, considerate, happy and content travelers, just happy to be on board and enjoy the flight we looked forward to all year. We never have “extra” requests, and we’re pretty quiet. I love getting to watch all the movies I never have time for at home, and my husband just grins like a goofball out at the clouds, totally happy, before he falls asleep for the duration.

 Am I imagining the disapproval? I imagine that they worry that people can’t handle their alcohol, and are bracing for later unpleasantness. 

They always seem to send an approving, sliiiiighlty condescending “Good Girl” vibe to me, and a sort of poo-poohing vibe to my husband when he accepts. Or maybe there is a certain “type” that we look like? 

Is the Unruly & Demanding Lush Couple typically a well-dressed, good- looking professional international couple in their early 30s and 40s? 

Or is it a cultural thing? I notice it doesn’t happen on German airlines, but definitely does on US or Asian airlines.

Your honest insight would be most appreciated.

Signed,

Mystified  in Munich

Dear M.M.,

The Sky Steward understands on many levels what you have been experiencing. He has a feeling that the chances that this attitude you’ve been getting on flights is less due to a cultural difference and more likely related to laziness. Remember, that the Sky Steward has not always been as pleasant as he is today. There was a time when he too threw a little attitude when he was expected to provide a higher level of service during his social time in the galley.

Now, following shock therapy and extensive etiquette and customer service training, he is able to enjoy the satisfaction that comes with providing exemplary service. He would caution you against changing your behavior since you are not asking for anything you shouldn’t. Even if you are seated in coach, beverages should always be available with a smile.

The Sky Steward encourages you to continue sipping delicate wines of the world from 40,000 feet high above any turbulent attitude being thrown your way.

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