Drawing from her years of experience, Nicola advised travelers to allow plenty of time before their flight. “If you start the day stressed, it’s going to go down hill from there.” She also suggested preparing entertainment in advance: “I always advise friends or family to get a good book or download a series on Netflix before travelling, and to purchase the Wi-Fi if needed.”
Nicola observed that frequent flyers tend to be especially friendly with cabin crew. “You can always tell when passengers fly often because most of them are so friendly to the crew and can’t speak highly enough of previous experiences. Once we’re nice to passengers, and vice versa, it makes the whole flight effortless.”
Regarding personal travel essentials, Nicola mentioned bringing snacks, water, antibacterial wipes, a toothbrush, and electrolytes for long flights. She emphasized staying organized at security by keeping liquids in a clear bag and checking gate information upon arrival.
For comfort during flights, Nicola recommended drinking water regularly and moving around when possible. She added: “Try and always have something to eat before you travel because flying on an empty stomach is no good.”
Nicola also addressed nervous passengers: “We see this a lot, and I always say to speak up and let the crew know so we can try and put you at ease. Downloading a good podcast or watching a movie helps to distract yourself, and we’ll always try to chat and reassure you. If turbulence happens, we keep an eye on nervous flyers. It’s great to see people travel even though they’re nervous.”
Families with young children receive special attention as well. “If there are babies under two on a long-haul flight, always ask about the bassinet row. We can make up a cot for the baby to try and sleep… And board as soon as you can — it gives crew time to organise the overhead space for families.”
Nicola reflected on aspects of her job that might surprise passengers: “How tiring it can be is probably the main thing,” she said. “People are also surprised that we fly to America and back in one day… that still amazes me too.” Her favorite memory remains her first trip on a long-haul route: “My favourite moment was probably my first trip to San Francisco. It’s a flight I’ll always remember…”
She values exchanging tips with colleagues about travel essentials like tea bags for hotel rooms or Olbas oil for long journeys.
Speaking about Aer Lingus’s culture onboard she said: “We have a way with people I can’t explain… maybe it’s the Irish charm. Even on my craziest days in the sky, passengers will always tell us how great the crew are…”
Nicola expressed particular fondness for destinations such as Chicago—where she visits family—and Los Angeles.
Her account illustrates how collaboration among cabin crew members contributes directly to positive passenger experiences aboard Aer Lingus flights.
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