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    These are the first things flight attendants notice about you when you get on a plane

    First impressions count, guys

    Delphine Chui's avatar
    By Delphine Chui
    Published 1 March 2017 In Features

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    First impressions count, guys

    Before you've even sat in your seat, the cabin crew have sized you up. But, no, they're not being judgemental about what you're wearing or how your hair looks - it's their job to know who they're dealing with.

    We already know why flight attendants always have their hands behind their backs when they greet you and travel beauty secrets that only cabin crew know.

    The Sun recently published a conversation they had with flight attendants and it's pretty eye-opening.

    You know how there are always around two members of crew to welcome you on board? Well, it's not just for politeness or customer service, it's because the flight crew want to know who their passengers are.

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    So, for example, if you're particularly physically fit, they'll try to memorise where you're sat in case a situation like an unruly passenger arises and they need to call upon your help.

    And, they're also trying to figure out if you could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol - or, if you're too ill to fly - because that means that you'll have to leave the aircraft immediately (for obvious reasons.)

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    Oh, and they're also looking if you're trying to smuggle anything in - because, yes, someone has tried to smuggle their dog in their handbag before...

    And, if you've booked an exit row but it seems like you could potentially slow down things in the case of an emergency, because of any physical impairment or not being able to speak and understand the main language of the crew well, then you may be moved.

    Because the hatch to open the exit door is heavy, the crew need to make sure the person is up to the task and will be able to understand instructions under pressure.

    So, next time you're greeted onboard, know that you are being assessed on how useful you might be, if needed. So, if you're a doctor or if you have any experience with planes, it's also worth telling a flight attendant.

    Delphine Chui
    Delphine Chui
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