Addressing passengers as 'guys'

[S-crew'd]

It's hard to guage.. as someone said earlier it comes with experience. Obviously on a PA you would address the cabin as Ladies\Gentlemen.. You can usually read how someone would like to be addressed. If it was a late night charter flight then perhaps addressing a group of guys as "guys" is the best way to get their attention. Not recommending it but it does depend on the day and the type of flight\passenger profile.

At my airline we were trained not to use Sir\Madam unless necessary and only when an assertive approach is required.. i.e: Sir you need to go back to your seat etc..

Bigger problem sometimes is what passengers feel they can call us.. Mate, Princess (!?), Buddy, You, Mr, Blondie, Boyo, Hostie.. the list goes on