Transcript of narration by @flightattendanttravel (Steven)
He writes : Travelling into the US currently is different. Something is happening and it’s not good. it feels likelanding into — original TikTok video link Russia. #crewlife #unitedstatesofamerica #flying #questionsfortravel #unitedkingdom #flightattendant #immigration #tsa
Hi, I’m Steven—flight attendant here to talk about all things travel.
Today I want to speak a little about something different: coming into the United States. I’ve just landed in Los Angeles, a destination I visit regularly. The U.S. is almost like a second home to me—I’m here a couple of days a week, most weeks.
But lately, there’s been a noticeable shift. There’s a very different feel to arriving in the States over the past few weeks, maybe just over a month. Usually, when crew come through, we go through security and immigration via a separate channel—for crew and diplomats. Our passports are pre-cleared, and we’ve gone through extensive security checks before we’re allowed to fly. We generally pass through international borders with ease.
The people we interact with—immigration officials and security staff—typically treat us as colleagues from a different bureau or agency. It’s often quite friendly, even chatty, and we move through quickly.
However, the past few weeks have felt very different.
Now, when we arrive, we’re being herded into separate areas. Our bags are checked thoroughly. The process feels intimidating, aggressive, and unfriendly—which is unusual and not what we’re accustomed to. And it’s not limited to Los Angeles. It’s been happening in Boston, San Francisco, Miami—it’s widespread, and it’s recent.
To put this in perspective: we travel to countries with far more volatile political situations. We’ve flown into places in the midst of a coup or civil unrest. We know how to conduct ourselves and follow protocols carefully. The U.S., by contrast, has always been one of our most routine destinations. We used to breeze through immigration—sometimes even with facial recognition, without showing our passports.
Right now, it feels more like we’re arriving in Russia. The atmosphere is tense. We don’t feel welcome. Something has shifted.
To be clear: I’m not going to talk about the politics behind this. I’m politically aware, but this channel isn’t the place for that. This is simply about the practical reality of international travel today.
I’m not saying people shouldn’t travel to the States. It’s not happening every time, and not to everyone. But there does appear to be a targeted, aggressive stance toward crew arriving from certain countries—and the UK is one of those at the moment.
This hasn’t been just my experience. Other crew members have noticed the same thing in different cities over recent weeks. It’s not universal, but it’s becoming common.
Today, for instance, our group was ushered into a designated area and given very strict instructions. We were told we would be searched, and they were checking for restricted items like meat, vegetables, or fruit—things we know not to bring. A ham sandwich is a ham sandwich; it’s not going to disrupt the economy. But we understand and respect the regulations.
Still, the search was conducted with clear intent. It wasn’t random. It was deliberately intimidating. And it’s been happening frequently.
So really, this is just a heads-up: be cautious when traveling to the U.S. right now. Things are different. Whether it’s temporary or part of something larger, I won’t speculate. But it is different.
If you’re traveling to the U.S. for holiday or business, take extra care with what you bring. Be prepared. And follow the rules—precisely.
This is unacceptable. This is hurting the U.S. tourist economy; the U.S. economy overall. This must stop.
Call to Action: Raise Your Voice
If you’re concerned about how international travelers and airline crew are being treated at U.S. ports of entry, consider reaching out to your elected officials and local media. Public accountability often begins with direct communication.
Contact Your Elected Officials:
- U.S. Capitol Switchboard (connects to your Senators or Representative):
📞 (202) 224-3121
An operator will direct your call based on your zip code. - White House Comment Line:
📞 (202) 456-1111
🕐 Tuesday–Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET
💻 Or submit online: whitehouse.gov/contact
Write to Your Local Newspaper or Television Station:
Search “[your city] + letter to the editor” or “news tips” to find submission portals for local outlets.
Consider reputable platforms such as the San Francisco Chronicle, Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, Miami Herald, or local NPR affiliates.
