tsk tsk tsk RoyHudd...
If there is a cabin fire - cabin crew attempt to put it out. What language you speak in this case is irrelevant - however you do still have to communicate with tech crew and pax, who may or may not speak the language of your airline (hopefully the tech crew do heheh!). Effective communication will go a long way towards achieving a better result.
What exactly a cabin crew member can do about an engine fire, 2 hydraulic systems going down, or a generator failing is beyond me. Other than preparing the cabin, which again involves
communicating with the passengers and crew!!! Again, life would be a little easier if you can communicate in the passenger's native language, would you not agree?
To the original poster..
I would like to know if you actually expressed your view to the FA you heard complaining or are you just b*tching about it behind her back?
Grow some balls for goodness sakes.
SG
PS. Pardon my crass expression, but in this case it is necessary.