Tipping your server at a restaurant is normal. But tipping flight attendants? That one’s not so clear. If you’ve ever had amazing service on a flight, you might wonder: Should you tip your flight attendant? Or can you even do that?
TL;DR:
- Tipping flight attendants isn’t common and is often not allowed.
- Some U.S. airlines accept tips, but most international ones don’t.
- Flight attendants don’t expect tips and may feel awkward about them.
- In first class, tipping still isn’t expected or required.
- A thank-you, note, or positive feedback is usually better than cash.
What Is the Etiquette Around Tipping Flight Attendants?
Tipping in the air isn’t like tipping at a café. If you’re flying with a U.S. low-cost carrier, tips might be welcomed. On international airlines, they might be against the rules. When in doubt, don’t push it. Say thank you, write feedback, or give a small treat instead. Politeness goes further than cash in the air.
Can You Tip Flight Attendants?
Technically, yes — but it depends on the airline.
Some airlines, mostly in the U.S., allow tips. In fact, a few low-cost carriers even encourage it. Others have strict rules that say no, and flight attendants must turn down any cash offers.
Outside the U.S., tipping flight attendants is rare and not part of the culture. Most international airlines don’t allow it, and even if they did, it would probably feel out of place.
So, before handing over money, it’s smart to check the airline’s policy or ask politely if it’s allowed.
Do Flight Attendants Want Tips?
Some do. Many don’t.
Flight attendants are trained to offer great service no matter what, and most don’t expect or rely on tips. For some, being offered a tip feels awkward. For others, especially those working on airlines that allow it, it’s appreciated — but still unexpected.
The truth is: flight attendants are not waiters in the sky. Their job is mostly about safety, not sales or service. A good crew member will smile and take care of you, whether or not there’s a tip at the end.
Is It Different in First Class?
In first class, you’re already getting special treatment, and you’ve likely paid a lot for it. That alone is often seen as enough.
Tipping in business or first class isn’t expected — and in most cases, it won’t change anything. Still, if a flight attendant goes far beyond what’s required, and tipping is allowed, a small thank-you gesture might be accepted.
What Happens If You Try?
If tipping is allowed, they might smile and say thank you. If it’s not, they’ll probably decline politely.
Some flight attendants say they’ve accepted cash, chocolates, or thank-you notes — but only when it didn’t break airline policy. Others say they’ve had to hand money right back, even if it felt rude.
Better Ways to Say Thanks
If you’re unsure about tipping, you can still show appreciation in other ways. A kind thank-you, a quick note on a napkin, or filling out a positive feedback form can mean a lot. Some airlines have systems for recognising crew members officially — and that can go further than any cash ever would.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tip flight attendants on any airline?
No. Some U.S. low-cost airlines allow tipping, but most full-service and international airlines don’t. Always check the airline’s policy before offering a tip.
Is tipping flight attendants expected in the U.S.?
It’s not expected, but it’s more common in the U.S. than elsewhere. Some airlines accept it, while others have rules against it.
Do flight attendants accept tips in first class?
Not usually. Even in first or business class, tipping is rare. Most crew will politely decline or say it’s not necessary.
What happens if you try to tip a flight attendant?
If it’s against policy, they’ll likely decline. If it’s allowed, they may accept it but still be surprised. It depends on the airline and the crew.
What’s a better way to thank a flight attendant than tipping?
A thank-you, a kind note, or giving feedback to the airline is often more appreciated than cash. It can also help the crew get recognised by their employer.