Do pilots and flight attendants receive tips?

Yes. As a charter pilot flying a “private jet,” I routinely received tips. The other crew members would also receive gratuities. I have also seen airline flight attendants receive tips, particularly in first class.

No, I have never received any cash tips as an airline pilot. However, I have received baked goods, and recently, I received an ERAS bracelet from a Taylor Swift fan. I have seen airline flight attendants in first class receive a tip but not very often.

Taylor Swift Tour Bracelet. A much appreciated gift from a passenger.

How Much do Pilots get Tipped?

A typical tip from a celebrity or wealthy person was $100 for each crew member per trip. On average, I made about $200 per month in tips. I have heard from other pilots who have made a little more. If you rent a jet for tens of thousands of dollars and have a flight crew at your disposal, then tips are expected and appropriate. The tips were always well appreciated.

Which Famous People Don’t Tip?

Folding Tacos is not a gossip blog. As tempting as listing a few names is, I will refrain.

I do have some advice if you are a rich and famous person. (I wonder why you would be reading this blog.) Don’t trust your agents, charter brokers, restaurant managers, etc. Don’t delegate tipping. I have witnessed the brokers keeping tip money meant for crews.

Why Not Tip Airline Flight Attendants?

Read this post about tipping flight attendants.

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