An American Airlines pilot has gone viral after making an important announcement about travel etiquette.
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The captain’s stern yet humorous speech struck a chord with many on social media amid a serious uptick in passengers misbehaving on planes in recent years.
American Airlines did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
He first reminded passengers how he felt they should treat the cabin crew.
“Remember, the flight attendants are here for your safety," the pilot announced at the start of the preflight speech. “After that, they’re here to make your flight more enjoyable. They’re going to take care of you guys but you will listen to what they have to say because they represent my will in the cabin, and my will is what matters.”
His words quickly garnered the attention of Maltezos' fellow passengers, who could be heard saying in the background, “Jesus” and “What is going on?”
“Be nice to each other,” the pilot continued. “Be respectful to each other. I shouldn’t have to say that. You people should treat people the way you want to be treated. But I have to say it every single flight because people don’t. And they’re selfish and rude and we won’t have it.”
“The social experiment of listening to videos on speaker mode and talking on a cell phone in speaker mode, that is over,” he said. “Over and done in this country. Nobody wants to hear your video. I know you think it’s super sweet. It probably is, but it’s your business, right? So keep it to yourself. Use your AirPods, use your headphones, whatever it is. That’s your business, okay? It’s just part of being in a respectful society.”
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He added a potentially less universally agreed upon note at the end.
“Middle seaters, I know it stinks to be in the middle . . .You own both armrests. That is my gift to you. Welcome on board our flight.”
Maltezos, the viral videographer,shared her thoughts about the unusual situation with PEOPLE.
American Airlinesstates on its websitethat safety is a top priority when it comes to flight etiquette.
“We’re also committed to providing a positive and dependable travel experience for all of our customers,” the site reads. “We hope this information will help you prepare for your trip. We understand traveling can be stressful, and we appreciate your patience and courtesy.”
source: people.com
