Cash tips
Thanks everyone for your replies. Does anyone else wish to share their personal tipping philosophies?
Mutt,
That's what I'm trying to figure out. I started in aviation working the ramp and always appreciated the extra dollars, snacks and cokes!
Our department designates one Captain each trip to handle paperwork and money issues so I'm finding there are many different approaches among the pilots. One pilot I fly with routinely tips drivers who help with bags $50 (we have many bags) and handlers more.
Personally, I think our international handlers deserve at least $50-$100, drivers and ramp guys who help with the baggage should get a couple dollars a bag, and anyone else who facilitates a smooth arrival and/or departure should be recognized as well.