Reports of staff soliciting tips raise concerns at United Clubs

The issue of tipping is not exclusive to United Clubs. Discussions about tipping practices have also surfaced regarding Delta Sky Clubs and other premium lounges. A common concern is whether passengers should be expected to tip after spending significant amounts on tickets.

Three important points about tipping as a practice include:

1. Airport employees do not make a 'tipped wage' where employers can pay less than minimum wage.

2. Tipping allows employers to pay less since it supplements wages.

3. Tipping can create awkward social interactions and classist dynamics.

At American Airlines' Flagship First Dining locations, tipping is explicitly prohibited as these areas are considered extensions of the cabin service. According to American Airlines policy, airport customer service employees may accept promotional items or perishable gifts worth no more than $100 but are prohibited from accepting cash or gift cards.

In many airport lounges, food service is outsourced to providers like Sodexo, where staff can generally accept tips but should not solicit them. Wages for these positions often start at $20 per hour in various locations.

The call for stopping tips in airport lounges emphasizes that premium services should not feel transactional and that employers need to cover employment costs fully without making customers uncomfortable.