The internet has applauded a flight attendant for her response to a “mean” passenger.
Pamela Rae Schuller (@pamelacomedy), 40, a comedian and disability advocate, took to Threads to share the ordeal that unfolded on her 6:15 a.m. flight from Phoenix to JFK on February 21, garnering over 1 million views on the platform. She said that an old white woman acted terribly toward a Black flight attendant.
“She kept calling her ‘sir’ even though she was clearly a Black woman with short hair, then barked orders like, ‘Put my bag up.’ I quietly told her the flight attendant was not a sir. She waved me off. But the flight attendant stood up for herself and calmly said, ‘You’re gonna be kind today.’ Iconic. So now I’m writing to Delta Air Lines to compliment the flight attendant for being amazing,” she wrote.
Schuller went on to explain that Delta used to give elite-status passengers certificates to recognize standout flight attendants, and that a version of the program still exists online.
The 40-year-old said she wasn’t sure whether such recognition came with a raise or was simply a commendation, but emphasized how friendly the attendant had been, even in the face of what felt like hostility.
She said that at the end of the flight, she asked the attendant’s name and told her—loudly enough for the “mean” passenger to hear—that she planned to email Delta about how wonderful she was.
Schuller added that the flight attendant was “stunning,” praised the crew working the early‑morning Phoenix‑to‑JFK route.
“As someone with a disability, I often board early and pay close attention to how I’m treated—so I noticed right away that this flight attendant was exceptional. That made it even more jarring to watch her be treated so poorly. I emailed Delta a compliment because I think we’re quick to complain but rarely take the time to acknowledge when someone is truly outstanding at their job and frankly, should the passenger choose to complain, I wanted Delta to have the full picture,” she told Newsweek.
She also acknowledged that some Threads users took offense at her labeling the problematic passenger as old, she confirmed that she was in her 70s or 80s, but wished she had described her as “older” instead.
“I’d never want my words to feel unkind towards other people,” she said. “Since the thread started gaining traction, I’ve heard that compliments sent to airlines do make their way back to flight attendants and their supervisors—and that means everything. In a time when we’re so quick to complain, let’s all make a point to notice the people in the sky who work hard to keep us safe, and make sure they know we appreciate them. I fly A LOT as I tour as a performer and I am always so thankful for them!”
Threads users were quick to respond with support of their own.
“I’m a flight attendant—THANK YOU for this. And for taking the time and action to write in about it. It makes a difference. We get these kudos and our supervisors see them, but more than that, it makes a difference to US, knowing that we’re seen and that there are ppl who will advocate for us against others who are bullies or mean or rude. My empathy runs deep, but we’re also human. I hope that whatever was bothering that woman was resolved and she doesn’t continue to project it onto others,” said Sejal Petal.
“Wow. As a Delta 2M Miler, I want to celebrate this flight attendant and I wasn’t even on your flight. Power to this amazing woman!” said Michail Takach.
“Yes!! I emailed @delta about the incredible kindness shown to me by one of the cabin crew on my flight home to Ireland after my father died. They passed on my praise to the crew member himself. In a world full of anger it’s a blessing to pass on praise. We all need it. Well done to you too,” shared Fiona Maher Gomez.
“Glad you stood up for the FA. Why are people so mean when they fly? Like, do they think they’d get better perks if they’re mean? Is this how they act at work or at home? I just don’t get people. I once gave a chocolate bar to a FA and she thought I was her BFF. And they have chocolates on the plane! It wasn’t “what” I gave her but the fact that I thought to share. It doesn’t take much. —End rant,” said Karen Lee.
“Former Delta employee. Our FAs put up with so much from the public. Most people are really nice and courteous. But let’s be real clear: that flight attendant is on that plane to ensure passenger safety first. They’re not there just to serve you drinks and snacks. That’s an added duty for them. The safety training they have to complete is very serious. I’m sure that old white woman would have a much different attitude when that FA is saving her life,” added Brandon Carson.
Delta made sure to express their gratitude to their hardworking employees, too.
“Delta flight attendants are highly trained professionals dedicated to ensuring the safety, comfort, and care of every customer on board, and we appreciate every customer who recognizes the professionalism they bring to even the most challenging travel moments,” a spokesperson for Delta told Newsweek.
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