Phew, there’s a lot going on this week.

It’s an interesting time in aviation (per usual).

I remember when I first interviewed with an airline, and the interviewer asked me why I wanted to work in aviation. “Because every day is different,” I said. Did any of you say something similar?

Most airlines in the US reported full-year 2024 earnings this week, and with that, profit sharing was announced. The amounts varied widely, from more than 11% of pay at Alaska Airlines to a measly 1% at American Airlines. Some crew members reacted angrily to their share, while some airlines are shedding workers, offering crew buyouts, and have no profits to distribute.

Meanwhile, severe turbulence shot meal trays into the air on a United flight from Lagos (LOS), and experts warn that these incidents will only get worse. And still on the topic of United, a nonrev employee caused a social media uproar when she insulted a working crew member and posted it on Facebook.

The US Transportation Security Administration also announced that they are sunsetting the Known Crewmember Program, which allows flight crews to bypass security screening. Apparently, too many flight crew members are bringing pew-pews (🔫 ) and dr*gs (💊 ) in their bags. Dang, some of you are having more exciting layovers than me. 👀 

While this industry is far from stable, that’s what keeps it exciting. It changes quickly; there’s always a new airline, aircraft, route, or product/service enhancement around the corner. But when the highs turn to lows, it’s important to remind ourselves that we signed up for this! 😉 

Safe travels,

Matt C
Captain, Standby Steals 💚 

🛳️ Hot Interline Cruise Deals!

Our friends at Perx alerted us to some incredible interline cuise deals currently available to airline employees and their companions. We’re talking rates from only $41/night/person - that’s cheaper than my rent! 🤑 

Here are a few options we found:

Sky Princess - 15 Nights from FLL ($41/night)

If you can be away from home a bit in March, this is an amazing opportunity to sail across the Atlantic while exploring ports in Europe and Africa - a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.

MSC Divina - 4 Nights from Miami ($59/night)

Hurry, drop your trips in late February! Here’s a quick MSC sailing from Miami that’ll get you out in the warm Caribbean waters for only $59/night. You can also snag a balcony for less than $100/night.

Celebrity Infinity - 10 Nights from Athens ($80/night)

March is a beautiful time to visit the Mediterranean - the temperatures are mild, there’s fewer crowds, and the flowers are blooming. 🌼 It’s an ideal time to island hop before the summer rush. And you can do it in style too on Celebrity from $80/night!

Of course, these deals are subject to availability. Rates change often, so be sure to continually check prices and book something as soon as you’re ready to commit.

But clearly, there are a lot of great interline cruise deals out there for early spring!

🇮🇳 Layover Goals in India

I love getting inspiration from crew members when I travel. I have a trip to India coming up in a couple weeks, and I’ve been peeking around for ideas. I love this video on TikTok I found of a United flight attendant who turned her Christmas layover in Delhi into a full-blown adventure, exploring vibrant markets, indulging in street food, and soaking in stunning sights. 🤩 

She is proof that layovers are what you make of them! Would you be as adventurous?

@whatislauren

Last minute Christmas trip ❤️🥰 picked up to work with friends and so glad I did! Had the BEST crew, most of them I know and have worked wi... See more

✨ Stay Stylish with voco (and save 35%!)

voco Hotels, an IHG brand, is all about relaxed elegance, offering a unique blend of comfort and charm. Perfect for airline staff looking for a touch of luxury without the fuss, voco properties stand out for their thoughtful design, warm hospitality, and sustainable practices.

I’ll never forget my stay at voco Paris Montparnasse, just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower. It was the ideal location for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, with cozy, modern rooms at the right price. After a long day of sightseeing, returning to the warm, inviting atmosphere of voco felt like the perfect way to unwind. 😮‍💨 

With locations across the globe, including voco St. David’s in Cardiff, UK, voco Orchard Singapore, and voco Dubai, you’re never far from an exceptional stay.

Even better, airline employees can save up to 35% at IHG hotels worldwide, which includes voco and other IHG brands such as Intercontinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn!

Click for full rate terms and conditions and step-by-step instructions on how to book this special discount.

💬 Galley Gossip

Industry news, rumors, and scuttlebutt.

👕 Spirit Airlines Introduces Dress Code Crackdown: Spirit Airlines is taking a hard stance on "trashy looks," banning passengers with lewd tattoos, see-through clothing, or exposed buttocks. Read more.

💰 Hotel Safes Are Not as Safe as You Think: Turns out, thieves don’t even need a code to open some hotel safes. A new report reveals how easy it is to crack open your valuables—time to rethink where you stash your stuff. Read more.

🛏️ Unchanged Hotel Sheets? Flight Attendants Are Leaving Clues: Some flight attendants are hiding notes in hotel bedsheets to alert colleagues when the linens haven’t been changed. Have you heard of this? Read more.

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