Originally Posted by
Brisbane Road
I've read that for US carriers, if being served at the bar in a lounge, leaving a tip is customary. Remember- tips are part of US custom because the bar staff don't really make a wage. I can't comment for any of the US carriers on this but for sure, BA would be paying a wage to the barman at IAD.
That's of course not to say he's undeserving of gratuity but to ask for it, is just downright rude.
Oh I know (originally from here) and tip in the AA lounges when I'm here, but 1. haven't ever seen it in a BA-operated lounge stateside, 2. rarely have US cash on me and 3. never, ever expect to be asked for a tip.
Agree that hoping BA are paying him a good wage as rudeness aside - in any/all service jobs - the tip-based wage system is ridiculously unethical.