‘What’s Up With The Coffee, Ma’am?’: Philadelphia Flight Attendant Shares 6 Things She’d Never Do as a Passenger — and You’re Definitely Guilty of No. 5
PHILADELPHIA, PA — As the holiday travel season ramps up, one Philadelphia flight attendant is going viral for revealing the six things she’d never do as an airline passenger — and one of them has the internet asking, “Wait, what’s wrong with the coffee?”
TikTok creator and flight attendant Tomiko Dwan (@tomikodwan) has amassed more than 29,000 views on her video breaking down what she’s learned after years in the sky — and it’s making even seasoned travelers question their habits.
“You’d be surprised how many people don’t know basic airplane etiquette,” Dwan said in her video. “Even the most experienced flyers can make mistakes.”
The Six Things She’d Never Do on a Plane
Dwan’s viral list starts with a hard rule that’s bound to save passengers from public embarrassment:
- Never argue with a flight attendant.
“You’re not gonna win that argument,” she said plainly.
- Never wear clothing that exposes too much skin.
She explained that airplane seats, tray tables, and armrests aren’t cleaned as often as passengers think — meaning exposed skin touches layers of bacteria and grime. - Never take your shoes off.
It’s a comfort move many travelers make — but Dwan says it’s both unhygienic and inconsiderate. - Never walk barefoot to the lavatory.
“That floor isn’t water,” Dwan warns with a grim smile. - Never drink the coffee.
The point that drew the most attention — and confusion — online. - Never ignore the safety demo on a plane you’ve never flown on.
Even if you’re a frequent flyer, Dwan says every aircraft has its differences — and the safety demonstration could be lifesaving.
Why Flight Attendants Warn Against In-Flight Coffee
In a follow-up clip, Dwan revealed why she refuses to drink the coffee served on airplanes.
“The next time you go on a plane, ask yourself — where are the coffee pots being cleaned?” she said. “That’s all I want you to observe.”
According to reports from Southern Living and the EPA, her concern isn’t unfounded. Flight attendants have long whispered about unsanitary water tanks and rarely cleaned coffee equipment. In fact, the EPA once found that roughly one in eight airplanes failed water safety standards, raising alarms about potential contamination.
Still, not every crew member agrees — some insist their airline’s systems are safe and that they drink the coffee regularly. But as Dwan noted, “I just don’t take the chance.”
@tomikodwan Things I would never do as a passenger. #flightattendantaddition
The Hygiene Factor Behind the Other Rules
Beyond coffee, Dwan’s tips all come down to a single theme — basic hygiene.
Airplane interiors, especially tray tables and armrests, are among the dirtiest surfaces travelers encounter, according to a study by TravelMath. And while flight attendants do their best, turnover between flights often leaves little time for deep cleaning.
That’s why Dwan — and many frequent travelers — say it’s wise to wear full-coverage clothing, use disinfectant wipes, and keep your shoes on at all times.
“It’s not about being paranoid,” Dwan said. “It’s about knowing what you’re sitting on.”
The Internet Reacts
The viral video drew a wave of agreement — and a few heated opinions.
“All of these make perfect sense, but let me just say that having drinkable coffee isn’t too much to expect,” one commenter wrote.
“Sadly, too many flight attendants are on complete power trips,” another added.
“Yes to all of that. I bring Lysol wipes for every part of my seat — even in business class,” a third chimed in.
As for Dwan, her message is simple: respect the cabin, respect the crew, and protect yourself.
So next time you fly — maybe skip that cup of airplane coffee.
For more viral lifestyle stories and travel insights, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
