Originally Posted by Analise
That's a pet peeve of mine too. I think it's absolutely rude for waiters to remove plates until everyone had finished his/her meal. When they try to remove mine (I eat much too quickly unfortunately), I tell them that to wait until the other person is finished.
Off point, but somewhat related: I was on a flight last week, sitting on the aisle, reading w/my half-finished drink (
half-finished, not empty) in front of me. Engrossed in my reading, I was slow to react when I saw a hand reach down and grab my drink. I jerked my head up and turned around to see a FA walking down the aisle to dispose of my drink. We were not on approach. When I saw her again, I asked for another (and got it).
This is not the first time FAs have tried to take my drink early -- but usually, I see it coming and am able to fend off the attempt.