Ask the Captain: How do flight crews celebrate the holidays? Do they have any traditions?

Question: What were your best and worst experiences working on Christmas? 

Answer: My best working Christmas experience was a three-day trip that left Christmas Eve and returned late on the day after Christmas (Boxing Day). I was a first officer at the time. The captain brought the crew together and told us, “I know all of us would rather be home with families, but we are not. So let’s make the absolute best of it.” That set the tone for the trip.

At most stops, one of us would go into the airport and return with something for the crew. Chocolate and mints were the favorites. On the overnights, we had nice dinners and enjoyed each other's company of each other. On Christmas Eve, there was a toast to all working that night. It was a very memorable trip. 

My worst Christmas wasn’t too difficult: We were scheduled to get home Christmas Eve, but weather and mechanical problems delayed our return until early Christmas afternoon. 

Q: Do flight/cabin crews have fun holiday traditions?

A: For many operators, uniform restrictions are relaxed a bit during the holidays. Flight crews are creative, so some of the most humorous holiday neckties available will be worn with pride. Santa hats replace the traditional uniform hats, and holiday pins are added to uniform jackets. 

Some crews will bring battery power lights to enhance the galley area and spread holiday cheer. 

John Cox is a retired airline captain with US Airways and runs his own aviation safety consulting company, Safety Operating Systems.