FORMAL (1–10)
Used between strangers, staff and passengers, or during polite interactions.
1. Checking Boarding Pass
Flight Attendant: Good afternoon, may I see your boarding pass, please?
Passenger: Certainly. Here you are.
Flight Attendant: Thank you. You’re in seat 14A, just down this aisle on the left.
Passenger: Much appreciated.
2. Asking for a Blanket
Passenger: Excuse me, would it be possible to get a blanket?
Flight Attendant: Of course, I’ll bring one right away.
Passenger: Thank you very much. It’s a bit chilly.
Flight Attendant: No problem at all.
3. Dealing with a Seat Dispute
Passenger A: I believe this is my seat, 22C.
Passenger B: Oh, I thought I had 22C. Let me double-check.
Passenger A: No worries.
Passenger B: You’re right. Apologies. I’ll move to 22D.
4. Requesting a Vegetarian Meal
Passenger: Pardon me, but I ordered a vegetarian meal.
Flight Attendant: Let me verify that for you. One moment, please.
Passenger: Thank you, I appreciate it.
5. Asking for Arrival Time
Passenger: Excuse me, could you tell me the estimated arrival time?
Flight Attendant: We’re scheduled to land at 6:45 PM local time.
Passenger: Thank you kindly.
6. Reporting a Lost Item
Passenger: I seem to have misplaced my headphones.
Flight Attendant: May I ask where you last saw them?
Passenger: Possibly near the seat pocket.
Flight Attendant: I’ll assist you in checking.
7. Changing Seats Due to Noise
Passenger: Excuse me, is there any chance I could switch seats?
Flight Attendant: May I ask the reason for the request?
Passenger: It’s quite loud in this section, unfortunately.
Flight Attendant: I’ll check if we have an available seat elsewhere.
8. Asking for Customs Form
Passenger: Will customs forms be distributed before landing?
Flight Attendant: Yes, we’ll hand them out about 30 minutes before arrival.
Passenger: Excellent, thank you.
9. Inquiring About Wi-Fi
Passenger: Do you happen to know if this flight offers Wi-Fi?
Flight Attendant: Yes, Wi-Fi is available for purchase. I can show you how to connect.
Passenger: That would be helpful, thanks.
10. Handling a Medical Issue
Passenger: I’m not feeling very well.
Flight Attendant: I’m sorry to hear that. What symptoms are you experiencing?
Passenger: A bit dizzy and nauseous.
Flight Attendant: Please stay seated. I’ll bring a medical kit and inform the crew.
SEMI-FORMAL (11–20)
Used between acquaintances, coworkers, or casual interactions with staff.
11. Greeting a Seatmate
Passenger A: Hello, looks like we’re seatmates for the next few hours.
Passenger B: Yes, looks like it! Hopefully it’s a smooth flight.
Passenger A: Fingers crossed!
12. Sharing Armrest
Passenger A: Mind if we share the armrest?
Passenger B: Not at all. Let’s make it fair.
Passenger A: Appreciate it.
13. Talking About Destination
Passenger A: Headed to Tokyo for business or pleasure?
Passenger B: A bit of both actually. You?
Passenger A: Mostly for work, but I’m hoping to explore too.
14. Asking to Switch Seats
Passenger A: Hi, would you be willing to trade seats? I’m trying to sit with my partner.
Passenger B: Depends where the other seat is.
Passenger A: It’s just one row ahead, by the window.
Passenger B: That works for me.
15. Discussing Turbulence
Passenger A: Wow, that turbulence earlier was rough.
Passenger B: Yeah, I was gripping the seat.
Passenger A: Glad it’s calmed down now.
16. Helping with Overhead Bin
Passenger A: Need a hand with your bag?
Passenger B: That would be great, thank you.
Passenger A: No problem at all.
17. Asking About Movie Choices
Passenger A: Have you checked out what movies they’re offering?
Passenger B: Yeah, quite a few good ones. I’m thinking of watching that new thriller.
Passenger A: Sounds like a plan.
18. Complimenting the Meal
Passenger A: Honestly, the pasta wasn’t bad for airplane food.
Passenger B: Agreed. I was surprised myself.
Passenger A: Might be the best I’ve had on a plane.
19. Talking About Jet Lag
Passenger A: Do you usually get jet lag on long flights?
Passenger B: Every time. My sleep schedule gets destroyed.
Passenger A: Same here. I try to adjust the day before.
20. Discussing Frequent Flyer Perks
Passenger A: Do you fly often?
Passenger B: Yeah, I’ve got Gold status now. The lounge access is a lifesaver.
Passenger A: Lucky! I’m still working my way up.
INFORMAL (21–30)
Used between friends, close colleagues, or laid-back situations.
21. Joking About Legroom
Passenger A: Whoa, I think my knees just made friends with the seat in front.
Passenger B: Seriously! Economy class isn’t made for tall people.
Passenger A: Next time, aisle seat for sure.
22. Sharing Snacks
Passenger A: Want some pretzels? I brought extra.
Passenger B: Sure! I forgot to grab snacks.
Passenger A: Here you go.
23. Complaining About the Delay
Passenger A: We’ve been sitting on the runway forever.
Passenger B: I know, I could’ve watched a whole movie by now.
Passenger A: Hope we take off soon.
24. Talking About the Window View
Passenger A: Check out those clouds! Looks like cotton candy.
Passenger B: Right? Flying never gets old.
Passenger A: Totally magical.
25. Watching a Movie Together
Passenger A: You watching the same movie?
Passenger B: Yeah! I love this part.
Passenger A: Let’s sync up and watch it together.
26. Making Fun of Airplane Food
Passenger A: Is this chicken… or is it a mystery?
Passenger B: Your guess is as good as mine.
Passenger A: Classic airplane dining.
27. Asking to Use the Restroom
Passenger A: Mind if I sneak past?
Passenger B: Go for it, I’ll move my legs.
Passenger A: Thanks a bunch.
28. Talking About Seat Entertainment
Passenger A: These games are surprisingly fun.
Passenger B: Yeah, I got hooked on Sudoku.
Passenger A: Same here. Time’s flying.
29. Helping with a Nervous Flyer
Passenger A: You okay? You look a bit nervous.
Passenger B: Yeah… not a fan of flying.
Passenger A: I get it. Want to chat to distract yourself?
30. Waking Someone Up
Passenger A: Hey, sorry to wake you, but the food cart’s here.
Passenger B: Oh! Thanks for the heads up.
Passenger A: No problem, didn’t want you to miss it.
1. Formal Situations (Professional, Polite, Respectful)
1. Boarding the Plane (Passenger & Flight Attendant)
Context: A passenger checks their boarding pass before entering the plane.
Flight Attendant: “Good afternoon, sir. May I see your boarding pass, please?”
Passenger: “Certainly. Here you go. Could you direct me to seat 24B?”
Flight Attendant: “Of course. It’s just down this aisle on the left. Enjoy your flight.”
2. Requesting Assistance (Passenger & Flight Attendant)
Context: A passenger needs help storing their carry-on luggage.
Passenger: “Excuse me, could you assist me with placing this bag in the overhead bin?”
Flight Attendant: “Absolutely. Let me secure it properly for you. Is there anything else you need?”
Passenger: “No, thank you. I appreciate your help.”
3. Meal Service (Business Traveler & Flight Attendant)
Context: A passenger asks about meal options.
Flight Attendant: “Would you prefer the chicken or the vegetarian meal, sir?”
Passenger: “I’ll have the vegetarian option, please. Could I also get a bottle of water?”
Flight Attendant: “Certainly. Here you are. Let me know if you need anything else.”
4. Delayed Flight Announcement (Pilot & Passengers)
Context: The pilot informs passengers about a delay.
Pilot (over PA): “Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Due to air traffic congestion, we’ll be delayed by approximately 30 minutes. We apologize for the inconvenience.”
5. Upgrading Seats (Passenger & Cabin Crew)
Context: A passenger inquires about seat upgrades.
Passenger: “Is there any possibility of upgrading to business class?”
Crew Member: “Let me check availability… Yes, we have one seat left. The additional cost would be $200.”
Passenger: “That’s acceptable. Please proceed with the upgrade.”
2. Semi-Formal Situations (Polite but Casual, Friendly)
6. Chatting with a Seatmate (Two Passengers)
Context: Two strangers strike up a conversation.
Passenger A: “Hi! Are you heading to London for business or leisure?”
Passenger B: “Mostly leisure. How about you?”
Passenger A: “A bit of both—a conference first, then some sightseeing!”
7. Asking to Switch Seats (Passenger & Fellow Traveler)
Context: A passenger wants to sit next to their family.
Passenger: “Excuse me, would you mind switching seats? My daughter is sitting in 12C, and I’d love to sit next to her.”
Fellow Passenger: “Oh, sure! As long as it’s also a window seat.”
Passenger: “Yes, it is! Thank you so much.”
8. Complaining About Noise (Passenger & Flight Attendant)
Context: A passenger is disturbed by a loud child.
Passenger: “I don’t mean to complain, but the child behind me is quite loud. Is there any way to address this?”
Flight Attendant: “I’ll speak to the parents discreetly. Thank you for your patience.”
9. In-Flight Entertainment Issues (Passenger & Crew)
Context: A passenger’s screen isn’t working.
Passenger: “Hi, my entertainment system seems frozen. Could you reset it?”
Crew Member: “Of course! Let me reboot it for you… There, it should work now.”
10. Turbulence Reassurance (Flight Attendant & Nervous Passenger)
Context: A passenger is anxious during turbulence.
Passenger: “Is this level of turbulence normal?”
Flight Attendant: “Yes, it’s completely safe. The seatbelt sign is just a precaution.”
3. Informal Situations (Relaxed, Friendly, Casual)
11. Sharing Snacks (Two Passengers)
Context: A passenger offers snacks to their seatmate.
Passenger A: “Want some chocolate? I packed way too much!”
Passenger B: “Oh, thanks! That’s really kind of you.”
12. Joking About Flight Delays (Passengers Chatting)
Context: Passengers bond over a long delay.
Passenger A: “At this rate, we’ll get there next week!”
Passenger B: “Tell me about it. At least the coffee’s decent!”
13. Complimenting a Flight Attendant (Passenger & Crew)
Context: A passenger praises the service.
Passenger: “You guys are doing an amazing job—so patient with everyone!”
Flight Attendant: “Aw, thanks! That means a lot.”
14. Talking About Travel Plans (Seatmates Chatting)
Context: Two passengers discuss their trips.
Passenger A: “First time in Spain?”
Passenger B: “Yeah! Any must-see places?”
Passenger A: “Barcelona’s beaches are unreal—you’ll love it!”
15. Celebrating a Smooth Landing (Passengers Cheering)
Context: The plane lands safely after turbulence.
Passenger A: “Whoo! Nice landing, Captain!”
Passenger B: “I’ll never take smooth landings for granted again!”
16. Lost Luggage Report (Formal)
Context: A passenger reports missing luggage to a flight attendant.
Passenger: “Excuse me, my checked baggage didn’t arrive. Whom should I speak to?”
Flight Attendant: “I’m sorry to hear that. Please visit the baggage claim office after disembarking. They’ll file a report and track it for you.”
Passenger: “Thank you. Do you have a contact number in case it isn’t resolved today?”
Flight Attendant: “Yes, here’s the airline’s 24/7 helpline. They’ll assist you further.”
17. Asking for Extra Blankets (Semi-Formal)
Context: A passenger feels cold and requests a blanket.
Passenger: “Hi, could I get an extra blanket? It’s a bit chilly.”
Flight Attendant: “Of course! I’ll bring one shortly. Would you like a pillow as well?”
Passenger: “That’d be great, thanks!”
18. Helping Someone with Their Bag (Informal)
Context: A passenger struggles to lift their bag into the overhead bin.
Passenger A: “Need a hand with that?”
Passenger B: “Oh, yes please! It’s heavier than I thought.”
Passenger A: “No worries—there you go!”
Passenger B: “Thanks, you’re a lifesaver!”
19. Discussing Flight Connections (Semi-Formal)
Context: Two passengers chat about tight layovers.
Passenger A: “Do you think 45 minutes is enough for your connection?”
Passenger B: “I hope so! I’ll have to sprint if the first flight’s late.”
Passenger A: “Fingers crossed for you!”
20. Annoyance Over Reclined Seat (Informal)
Context: A passenger reacts to the person in front reclining abruptly.
Passenger A (muttering): “Wow, didn’t even ask…”
Passenger B (overhearing): “Right? Some people have no spatial awareness.”
Passenger A: “Guess I’ll be eating my meal at a 45-degree angle!”
21. Medical Emergency (Formal)
Context: A passenger feels unwell and calls for help.
Passenger (pressing call button): “I’m feeling dizzy—could I get some water and maybe a doctor?”
Flight Attendant: “Right away, sir. We’ll page for medical assistance. Try to stay calm and breathe deeply.”
22. Complimenting the Food (Semi-Formal)
Context: A passenger praises the in-flight meal.
Passenger: “This pasta is surprisingly good for airplane food!”
Flight Attendant: “I’ll let the catering team know—they’ll be delighted!”
23. Celebrating a Birthday (Informal)
Context: A passenger reveals it’s their birthday mid-flight.
Passenger A: “Hey, it’s my birthday today!”
Passenger B: “No way! Happy birthday! Should we ask for free champagne?”
Flight Attendant (overhearing): “We’ve got a little dessert for birthdays—coming right up!”
24. Requesting a Quiet Seat Change (Formal)
Context: A business traveler asks to move away from a noisy group.
Passenger: “Is there another seat available? I need to focus on work, and it’s quite loud here.”
Flight Attendant: “Let me check… Yes, there’s a quieter spot in row 18. Follow me, please.”
25. Bonding Over a Hobby (Informal)
Context: Seatmates discover a shared interest.
Passenger A (noticing a book): “Oh, you’re into photography too?”
Passenger B: “Yeah! Are you shooting in Barcelona?”
Passenger A: “Totally—the architecture is a dream!”
26. Explaining Allergies (Formal)
Context: A passenger informs the crew about dietary restrictions.
Passenger: “I have a severe nut allergy. Could you confirm if any meals contain traces?”
Flight Attendant: “Absolutely. I’ll double-check with the kitchen and bring you a nut-free meal.”
27. Teasing About Fear of Flying (Informal)
Context: A nervous passenger jokes about their anxiety.
Passenger A (gripping armrests): “If I survive this, I’m never flying again!”
Passenger B: “Ha! You say that now, but wait till you see the duty-free prices.”
28. Delayed Baggage Delivery (Semi-Formal)
Context: Passengers discuss luggage delays after landing.
Passenger A: “Ugh, the baggage carousel says ‘delayed.’ Typical!”
Passenger B: “At least we’re not alone—half the plane’s waiting too.”
29. Offering Gum for Ear Pressure (Informal)
Context: A passenger helps another during descent.
Passenger A: “Want some gum? Helps with the ear-popping.”
Passenger B: “Oh, smart! Thanks—my ears always kill me on landing.”
30. Thanking the Crew (Semi-Formal)
Context: A passenger expresses gratitude before disembarking.
Passenger: “Thanks for the great service—it made the flight really pleasant!”
Flight Attendant: “That’s so kind of you! Safe travels!”