Is It Considered Impolite to Ask for Additional Food During a Flight?

Asking for additional food or snacks during a flight can sometimes leave passengers uncertain whether it is polite to do so. The answer to this question often depends on the airline and the type of service you are receiving.

Understanding the Right Time to Ask

It is generally not considered impolite to request additional food, but the timing is key. After the service has been completed, it is a good idea to make your request. Airlines have a limited amount of food and drinks that they can serve, especially during long flights. It is important to consider that there may not be anything left by the end of the flight. To avoid any inconvenience, it is best to be considerate of the flight attendants and the resources they manage.

When you make your request, it is polite to be slightly exaggerating about your hunger. A sweet demeanor can help you get noticed, and making your request quietly can prevent it from becoming an annoyance for other passengers. However, remember to be subtle and avoid being too loud, as this could lead to disturbances throughout the cabin.

Airline Policies and Practices

The policies and practices regarding food and drinks vary among airlines. For example, some budget airlines require you to pay extra for additional food or drinks. If you are willing to pay for extra items, there is usually no problem with requesting more. On the other hand, full-service airlines like Emirates often include food and drinks in the ticket price, making it more convenient for passengers to ask for additional items without incurring extra costs.

On wider and more luxurious flight configurations, such as those found in business class, the options for food and snacks are generally more extensive. In business class, there are often several types of meals and snacks available, including rolls, pastries, fruits, and cakes. Passengers can enjoy a range of refreshments and can ask for additional food and drinks with ease. The onboard lounge also offers specific times when passengers can request additional items, such as cappuccino or espresso. Food and drinks are served at these designated times, ensuring that the requests are made in a respectful and organized manner.

How to Ask Politely

Passengers can ask for additional food and drinks directly at the galley (the area where food and drinks are stored). This approach is much more efficient than pressing the call button, as it allows you to receive your request quickly and minimizes the need for the flight attendants to walk back and forth. If the food or drinks are readily available, the flight attendants will be happy to assist you. Even if there is nothing left, they will be understanding and may offer alternative options or share the remaining items with other passengers who might be hungry.

Passengers should always maintain a polite and respectful demeanor when asking for additional food or drinks. Flight attendants are often willing to go the extra mile to accommodate requests, provided they are reasonable. By following these guidelines, passengers can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable flight experience while respecting the needs and efforts of the cabin crew.

Over to you: Do you have any tips for requesting additional food or drinks on a flight? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Note: This article is intended to provide information and tips to travelers. Always check the specific policies and procedures of your airline before making any requests during a flight.