What to make of vlogger’s negative review of SIA?
A screenshot of Mr Cahill's video on YouTube, where he has 226,000 subscribers.
A German travel vlogger made the news this week after his 11-minute YouTube video with a negative review of Singapore Airlines (SIA) drew over 100 abusive messages on social media and even a death threat. Mr Josh Cahill had praised the in-flight meals on his 13-hour flight from London to Singapore, but said that the cabin crew was “the biggest let down”, describing them as having a “zero-engagement policy”.
In response, some TODAY readers felt that he was entitled to his opinion, which should be taken as constructive feedback. Others, however, said his criticism had little basis and he should be disregarded.
If his review is reasonable, he won't get all these reactions. SIA is a good airline and we do care. BENNY LAH
Benny Lah, I’m sure there are others who have similar experiences as this guy. Moreover, if you don’t complain or give feedback, how can one improve? SIA used to be the best airline, what about now? Overtaken by another airline. Doesn’t that say something about SIA? HAKIM KIMMY
Well, he paid for economy class, so he should not expect business/first class experience. EVELYN TANSY
Frankly, I don't expect the crew to engage me with small talk. As long as I am comfortable and safe, I will be pleased. ANNE LIM
He is getting backlash because his review is complete rubbish. I have flown SIA economy all my life. The crew has always been excellent. Obviously, they can’t be chatting with him when they are busy... If you want engagement, take a walk to the pantry during the less busy periods, and you will find the crew most engaging. They are usually just very nice and well-travelled people... so they are interesting. KEVIN NG
You may also start off by checking out what’s the real/ standard responsibilities of a cabin crew. Learn to manage your expectation and have expectations within reasonable basis. AMMERLYN EMMA NG
He is just expecting what all airline staff are taught before they start flying ...that’s not demanding. ADRAIN TAY
I have flown over 750,000 miles on SIA in the last 15 years. I have also flown other airlines before and will most certainly vouch for SIA. Let the guy have his opinion and maybe he had some other expectations. Let it go. SRIVATSA KASTURI
I find it hard to believe that someone will make a death threat just because of an airline review. Maybe just to get more publicity? LEON KHOR
Well, he is entitled to his opinion. The past few times I’ve flown with SIA, the experience was muted as well. Maybe it’s because they market themselves as the best in the world that makes customers expect more. Maybe expecting less would help. MUGI KRISH
It’s a review from a blogger; it’s merely a reference. He has his views. I’d take SIA if I have the means but even so, I wouldn’t expect impeccable service because humans are imperfect. No one can pander to our every need and if they have to, we are too spoilt. SAMMIE SEN
I have flown SIA for more than 30 years and never experienced bad service. This kind of complain kings, we have to ignore. KURT F BOHUSLAV
I won't let national pride influence me. The mixed review by the vlogger is the hard truth. People should learn how to accept criticism. There are pros and cons in each airline. Nothing is perfect. Criticisms are good source of motivation to improve. GINTOBI JU
I have no problem flying with SIA and it really puzzles me whenever I read about negative comments on them. SERENE LAW
He is entitled to his opinion. No need for death threats. So what he keeps spewing negative feedback? People will make a decision for themselves. ADRIAN WONG
These comments were first posted on TODAY’s Facebook page. They have been edited for clarity, accuracy and length.
