I was flying back home to San Francisco after a business trip in New York City and had a strange interaction with a flight attendant. I want to know if I handled the situation incorrectly.
I purchased a snack box and a Diet Coke, which was given as a full can along with a cup of ice. The tray table and seating felt unusually tight, and I did not need the ice, so I asked if he could take it back since my space was getting cramped. He refused, saying he also did not have space. I decided to wait for the trash collection.
After about 30 to 40 minutes, no one had come to collect trash and I needed to use the restroom. I was in the window seat with a full tray including a melting cup of ice, and I did not want to risk spilling anything while getting up. I pressed the call button and asked if he could take my trash so I could step out. He responded by saying he would need to put on gloves. Unsure how to react, I thanked him and he eventually returned to take the items.
He then told me that the call button is only meant for emergencies and that pressing it makes the crew think something is wrong. I did not respond and just thanked him again. He added that he would take my trash this time as an exception. At that point, even the passenger next to me seemed uncomfortable with the situation.
Later, while I was near the restroom, I overheard him speaking negatively about me in the galley. Shortly after, he made an announcement telling passengers to come to the galley if they needed snacks or drinks.
The whole experience was unpleasant and makes me hesitant to fly Alaska Airlines again, especially for work trips when I am already tired. At the same time, I am confused. Is the call button actually meant only for emergencies, or was this handled poorly? I would appreciate any input.
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