“Is it a Coke, or is it a stroke?” is an axiom that’s been passed down at flight attendant training academies for generations. It teaches cabin crew the importance of never assuming why a passenger has pressed the flight attendant call button above their seat. In 99% of cases, they will request a Coke, water, or an extra bag of pretzels—but in rare instances, an unassuming call bell can be signaling a life-threatening situation, like one time when a medical emergency diverted my plane in Montreal.
I get it: the call bell, shiny and oddly tempting, exists to be pressed—much like the ever-controversial seat recline button. However, there are times when 50 lights twinkling like little stars in the dark cabin can elicit a sense of overwhelm, and it’s important for flight attendants to be able to focus their attention on essential safety and service duties. Bearing that in mind, in this month’s column we will discuss the nuances of when passengers should—and shouldn’t—press the flight attendant call bell.
When you should press the call button
Medical emergencies: First and foremost, the call bell is an emergency feature, and a medical emergency is certainly the most appropriate reason to press it. If you or another person is feeling unwell you should never hesitate to press the call bell, insistently if necessary. Your safety and well-being are our priority—flight attendants are trained in first aid and can summon medical professionals and liaise with the captain to land the aircraft at the nearest port if necessary.
Faulty seat: Seat-related issues are a common reason to flag down a cabin crew member, as even the newest airline seats are prone to wear and tear. If you do have issues with your seat, like a malfunctioning TV screen, a seat that does not recline, or a broken tray table, then that too is a valid reason to press the call bell.
Spilled liquids: Another scenario in which flight attendants appreciate being alerted via the call bell is the case of liquid spillage. Modern aircraft are laced with electrical wires, inflight entertainment systems, charging ports, lights, and seat mechanisms. Spilling liquids on any of these should be addressed right away.
It’s important to note that this list is non-exhaustive, and there plenty of valid reasons why someone may press the call bell. And of course, passengers with reduced mobility have unrestricted access to the call bell for whatever necessity.
When it’s okay to press the call button
There are the above scenarios when passengers absolutely should press the call button, and then there are certain grey areas when it may be warranted.
Asking for water: It’s easy to become dehydrated on a flight, and a singular cup of water provided during meal service may not be enough. The best time to request extra beverages or snacks is following the meal service, when flight attendants tend to huddle in their respective galleys. However, if you have easy access to the aisle, my pro tip is to stretch your legs and walk over to the galley to ask. It’s often more efficient and your body will thank you for the opportunity to move your legs.
