Are you always fascinated by air travel? What if your dreams come true and you get a chance to go abroad? You eagerly finish the check-in procedures and board the plane with your cabin luggage. The air hostess checks the ticket and directs you to your seat. You want to enjoy your first airplane experience smoothly, but your luggage is proving to be a hindrance. The only option available to you is to put it in the luggage compartment, but you have no idea where it is. You think of calling the airhostess for help but are unsure on how to go about it. As English is a global language followed by airlines, it is important that you converse in English.

Steps in an airplane conversation

Be patient

An airhostess has a very hectic job profile. She has to assist passengers to their seats, solve their minute problems and make sure everyone's comfortable. At times, she has to assist multiple passengers at once. When you see an air hostess around, don't just rush in with your problem. See if she is busy assisting other passengers. If that is the case, be patient and wait for your turn. Airhostesses appreciate the patience and civility.

Beckon and ask politely

Beckon means to call out someone. Be polite to the airhostess and call her in a nice way. You can start with "Excuse me, Miss/Madam" followed by "can you" or "will you". Although majority of air passengers are civilized, there may be rude ones as well. Airhostesses always remember courteous passengers and willingly cater to their requests.

Conclude graciously

Now that your query is answered and your luggage is conveniently stored away, thank the airhostess in a graceful manner. Don't just end the conversation with abrupt "ok, thanks". Instead, say "Thank you for your assistance" or "You have been kind, thank you". Always remember to smile and conclude.

Sample Conversation

Situation: You are travelling by a flight for the first time and you have booked an economy class ticket. You are standing in front of your seat clutching a briefcase and a handbag. You see an airhostess assisting another passenger and wait your turn. Seeing that she is free, you call out

You: Excuse me, Ma'am.

Airhostess: Yes Sir, How may I help you?

You: I have this luggage with me and wish to keep it in a cabin compartment. But, since I am a first time flyer, I don't know where it is.

Airhostess: Certainly, I will assist you. You see those rows on your topside left? Those are cabin compartments. You can keep your luggage there.

You: (smile and say) Thanks a lot.

You try to open the compartment lock, but the mechanism won't budge. You turn and ask:

You: I am sorry Ma'am, but this lock just won't open. Can you please help me open the compartment door?

Air hostess: No problem, please wait.

She comes forward, opens the door and even helps you put your luggage securely.

You: Thank you so much for your help Ma'am. You have been very kind. I appreciate it.

Air hostess: You are welcome, have a pleasant flight.



This sample demonstrates an English conversation about cabin luggage from start till end. As you can see, politeness, patience and English speaking skills are essential for a proper conversation. You can practice this conversation with a friend simulating various scenarios. Our English speaking tutorials can teach you how to converse confidently and gracefully in any situation. You can also improve your delivery of words by reading English speaking books.

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- By Monika Agarwal

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