Because then all of us back in coach couldn't see what we're missing. ;)

I was hanging out in a bar with some people in DUB. Turns out one of the guys was a FAM. We BSed a bit and he said that everyone at his station tried to figure out who Mr. Video Game was and they were positive that it was not an FAM.

We also talked about the airlines not getting to sell the seats that the FAMs take. He says the airlines get to write off the full F (or Y if they actually sit in coach) value of the ticket. This is a decent deal for the airlines on flights with modest loads, not so great on the heavy load flights.

I love the idea of the FAMs dressing like the FA crew. After all the FAs are there primarily for your safety.

The problem is that this would make it too easy to identify the FA FAM's -- they would be the ones who weren't concerned about being laid off. :(

Even if this was true, a write-off really doesn't help if the airline has negative net income.

Write-off Isn't True
 

The write-off, as discussed many times here, is *not* true.

What I find most interesting is that many of the FAM's apparently believe it is true. I think that there was anecdotal information that they are actually told this lie by their management, which raises the question, why do they want to lie to their own people about this item?

You are correct. This is/was anecdotal information that has continued to grow within the service, and industry as well. I have spent the last couple years trying to research this and get the answer.

My opinion is that an "arrangement" may have been in place prior to 9-11 when the numbers were smaller. I would like to think its still in place, and would love to be able to find the "proof", but I am not too confident.

Why would the FAM have to be a "fake" FA? Why can't the FAM actually work the flights he/she/it is flying? Heck, this would save the airlines money.

I have a random question...

Can you get in trouble for audibly identifying a FAM? For example, your finishing up your conversation with your significant other and you finish the conversation by (at a modest volume) saying, don't worry baby, I feel safe because I am sitting next to a Federal Air Marshall (obviously with a slight hint of sarcasm in your voice).

How would a FAM react in this scenario?

Make some notes in the PDA and confront you after the flight, do the ID check on you and grill you as to why you're so interested in them.

Am I under arrest? Ok, then I'm free to go?

Repeat this great advice from bdschobel as necessary.

Actually, a very good idea. Being up and around the cabin would help keep the marshals alert - recall when Seinfeld's George Costanza brought the jewelry store security guard a rocking chair - and the guard fell asleep? :eek:

Let's face it - it's easy to drift off while seated in an F seat on a warm airplane. Even if you've had a good night's sleep and are alert before boarding. But just try to fall asleep while walking around serving drinks. :D