I remember a 3-hour diversion to Shreveport, Louisiana, while I was on an OAK-DFW-ZRH itinerary, as being an unexpectedly positive experience. It was due to t-storms at DFW and caused me to miss the departing Zurich flight.

Our MD-80 sat on the ground for awhile, along with many other planes, all of which had to be refueled using Shreveport's one fuel truck. Guess who was last in line?

The FAs came around with a round of drinks (in both F and Y), and some thoughtful conversation about connections. This was maybe 10 years ago, and there wasn't much information about connections, but there was empathy. Basically, they let us know what information they had, made a human connection regarding the delays, and provided an occasional update on how soon the fuel truck might get to us.

The thing I remember in particular is having a brief conversation with one of the FAs--not sure about what, probably where they were stationed or where I was headed, and then about the weather in Dallas. That made a big difference as compared to if the FAs had simply waited on the jumpseats, talking amongst themselves.

I figure the FAs can't control pax reactions, but they can help set the conditions of possibility for a pleasant experience, and for making the best of a tough situation.

HOWEVER--if you can control the weather, please come to California, as we could use some rain.