Airports are chaotic and flying usually leaves everyone feeling tired and completely drained. The crew members on your flight feel that pressure tenfold because they work endless shifts. If you show them a little basic decency it stands out like a bright light. Doing simple things to be a helpful passenger transforms your whole travel experience for the better. When the staff feels appreciated by you they gladly go out of their way to make your flight extra comfortable.
Saying Please and Thank You With a Smile

It sounds incredibly basic but greeting the crew with a huge genuine smile when you board makes you stand out immediately since most people completely ignore them. A simple please and thank you during the drink service makes their long day much better and they will definitely remember your kindness.
Taking Off Headphones During the Service

The flight crew appreciates it when you pay attention during the snack service. Taking off your headphones prevents the need for repeating choices. It allows the attendants to work quickly and efficiently down the narrow cabin. Your small gesture helps the entire plane get served without any annoying delays.
Knowing What You Want to Order Early

Checking the menu before the cart reaches your row shows that you totally respect the tight schedule the busy crew is working on. Having your meal and drink choices completely ready means they can serve you quickly and move on to the next row without any awkward waiting around.
Following Safety Instructions Without Complaining

Putting your tray table up and opening your window shade might feel annoying but the crew is just following strict rules to keep you totally safe. Passengers who do these small tasks quickly without rolling their eyes show that they are easygoing and will not cause annoying problems later.
Stowing Luggage Quickly and Correctly

Boarding is always the busiest time for the crew so putting your bag in the overhead bin with the wheels facing out is a huge help. This small action frees up the aisle much faster and means the flight attendants do not have to rearrange heavy bags just to close the tight bins.
Staying Seated When the Cart Is Out

Trying to squeeze past a heavy food cart to get to the bathroom makes the service stop completely and frustrates the hardworking crew. Waiting until the aisle is completely clear before getting up is a really easy way to show you are paying attention to what is happening around you.
Dressing Neatly Instead of Wearing Pajamas

You do not need to wear a fancy suit but showing up in smart casual clothes actually makes you look like a great candidate for an upgrade if economy happens to be full. Ground staff and flight crew definitely notice people who look put together and they sometimes prioritize them when moving passengers to better comfortable seats.
Only Using the Call Button for Real Things

Ringing the bell constantly for another drink while the crew is serving other people is a quick way to get on their bad side. They love helping nice people but saving the call button for real issues shows you understand they have hundreds of other hungry passengers to take care of too.
Bringing a Small Gift for the Crew

Handing the flight attendants a little bag of nice chocolates or some coffee gift cards when you board is an amazing surprise that brightens their whole tiring shift. This is absolutely never expected but it is the ultimate way to make friends and you might just find a free drink or extra snacks coming your way later on.