Some of you have probably been there – you’ve just boarded your flight with your carry-on in hand, searching for space in the overhead bin. You finally spot an opening and attempt to lift your bag, only to realize it’s heavier than you thought.

So, you turn to a nearby flight attendant for help, only to be gently refused with a polite, “Sorry.” At that moment, you might think, Wait, what? Why not help?

It’s easy to assume the flight attendant is being unhelpful or even rude—but that’s not the case. There’s a valid reason behind the refusal, and it has nothing to do with bad manners or a lack of willingness.

To clear up the confusion, this article answers two important questions:

• Why do flight attendants refuse to lift your bag?
• What should you do if you need help with overhead storage?

Let’s unpack the truth:

Why Flight Attendants Refuse to Lift Your Bag

Although flight attendants are known for their professionalism and willingness to assist, lifting your carry-on into the overhead bin is where they draw the line—and here’s why:

1. It’s Not Part of Their Job Description
   Flight attendants receive training to handle passenger safety, and emergencies and deliver in-flight service but baggage assistance does not form part of their official responsibilities.
2. Risk of Physical Injury
   Carrying and hoisting bags may result in injuries to the back, shoulder, and even neck. Therefore, the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) together with other flight attendant unions strongly recommends against this practice because work-related injuries occur frequently among their members.
3. Lack of Insurance Coverage
   If a flight attendant gets hurt while lifting a passenger’s bag, the injury may not be covered by airline insurance. Since it’s not a required part of their role, they could be left to handle the medical expenses themselves.
4. Airline Safety Policies
   Another reason is that flight attendants, in fact, receive guidelines that encourage them to avoid lifting bags as part of standard workplace safety procedures. In a TikTok video Kat Kamalani who worked as a flight attendant stated that airlines throughout the industry have banned luggage lifting because to avoid flight attendant injuries.
5. Passenger Responsibility
   Ultimately, passengers are responsible for ensuring their carry-ons are manageable. If you can’t lift it yourself, it may be a sign the bag should have been checked in instead.

So now you know why when next time a flight attendant politely declines to assist with your bag. Now what if you still need help? Well, here are ways to approach it.

What should you do if you need help with overhead storage?

Trying to fit your carry-on inside the overhead compartment can be a difficult task for many passengers. But thankfully, there are a few practical solutions that can save you the stress (and potential embarrassment). Here’s what you can do:

1. Ask for Assistance—Tactfully
While flight attendants are advised not to lift bags entirely, many are willing to offer assistance—especially if you’re already making an effort. As former flight attendant Kat Kamalani explains, they may be happy to guide or stabilize the bag while you lift, as long as they’re not bearing the full weight.

2. Turn to Fellow Passengers
Well, sometimes, the best help often comes from your fellow travelers. So, if you happen to need a hand hoisting your luggage don’t hesitate to ask someone nearby—especially if they appear taller, stronger, or simply willing to lend a hand.

Remember, most people are glad to help, especially if asked politely.

Tips to avoid straining while placing your luggage

• Check The Overhead Bin Instructions: Check for labels inside the overhead bin showing how to position your bag. ‘Is it vertical or horizontal?’ in order to avoid unnecessary struggles when lifting.
• Test At Home Before You Travel: Test-lift your packed bag before traveling. If it’s too heavy, lighten the load or shift items to your personal bag.
• Pack Light and Smart: Only bring what you can lift. Keep heavier items in your under-seat bag or consider checking your luggage.