avatarLinda Ng

Summary

The article provides practical tips for maintaining courtesy and comfort while flying, emphasizing respect for shared space and fellow passengers.

Abstract

The article titled "8 Airplane Etiquette Tips for a Happy Flight" outlines considerate behaviors to enhance the flying experience for everyone on board. It advises against pulling hair when standing up, using headphones to avoid disturbing others, and resolving the armrest dispute amicably. The piece also suggests reclining seats responsibly, being mindful during meal times, allowing others to pass easily, keeping personal belongings contained, and being aware of seat kicking. The author, Linda, shares these insights to foster a more pleasant travel environment and invites readers to contribute additional tips for happy travels.

Opinions

  • The author believes that it is common courtesy to avoid grabbing the seat in front of you to prevent pulling someone's hair.
  • Using headphones is considered essential for not disturbing others with personal audio.
  • There is an expectation that the middle seat passenger should have priority use of the shared armrest.
  • Reclining seats should be done thoughtfully, especially during meal times and on short flights.
  • Passengers should stow their trash promptly after meals to avoid spills or discomfort for neighbors.
  • It is recommended to step aside and organize luggage in the seat area to expedite boarding and avoid aisle congestion.
  • The author emphasizes the importance of keeping personal items from spilling into neighboring seats.
  • Seat kicking is strongly discouraged, as it

8 Airplane Etiquette Tips for a Happy Flight

Be kind on the airplane, we’re sharing the same space.

Photo by Gratisography from Pexels

For the most part, I’ve always had pleasant experiences flying. Everyone is courteous and polite.

But yes, we know that airplane etiquette is sometimes lacking.

We share the same space with strangers for hours and hours. We can try making it comfortable for everyone.

Let’s talk about airplane etiquette! Don’t be “THAT” annoying person.

Protect Your Fellow Passengers’ Hair

I know it’s tough to get out of that spacious airplane seat. The struggle to stand up in a small gap is delightful.

But try not to grab the seat in front of you. Chances are, you’ll also get a fistful of hair. Ew.

I know it’s natural to hold on to the headrest in front of you.

Instead, try to steady yourself with the armrests on your seat. It works well too!

Use Headphones

If you’re listening to music or watching a movie, use headphones.

I’ve had the pleasure (not) of listening to someone else’s movies or music at full blast. It’s disturbing, especially if I am trying to sleep!

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Stop Elbow Wars

You know what I’m talking about, right?

That silent elbow fight over the armrest that sits between you and your neighbour. Use it when it’s free, don’t use it when it’s not free. Save your beautiful elbow.

Some airplane etiquette rules state that the armrests should be given to the person in the middle seat.

What do you think?

Seat Reclining

Yep, of course, I recline my seat.

But at least pull it back to its upright position during mealtime! The last thing I need is a headrest on my face as I’m trying to eat my chicken pasta!

And if it’s a short flight, maybe don’t recline at all.

Chow Time

While I wait for the flight attendant to collect the meal trays, I’ll usually stow all the empty containers and used packaging safely away.

I don’t want my half-finished cup of tea to spill over my neighbour as it is taken away. Or a used fork. Nasty!

Photo by Alexandr Podvalny from Pexels

Let ’em Pass

If you’re having trouble fitting your luggage into the overhead compartment, maybe sit down and take a break.

It’s tiring to have your arms up for so long and chances are, a long line up of passengers is waiting for you.

Roll your luggage into the seat area first and clear the aisle for a couple of minutes.

You can always try again when most passengers are boarded and are still settling in.

The faster everyone gets to their seat, the faster we can all be on our way!

Keep Your Belongings Together

I’ve had jackets and pillows spill into my seat before. I know the seat isn’t exceptionally big. So it’s hard to keep your stuff in order.

But I really don’t want to fall asleep on a stranger’s jacket and start drooling.

Talk about awkwardness.

Seat Kicking

Here’s a big one. It’s annoying as hell.

Yes, I know it’s hard for some people because the seats are so small.

But please be conscious of this one!

It’s like the person kicking the back of your seat in a movie theatre. No. Just no.

Photo by Skitterphoto from Pexels

So, what do you think? Are there more tips you’d like to add so that we can all travel happily? Here’s to more travelling and seeing the world!

If you enjoyed this article and would like to support me, please consider buying me a coffee. My frozen Canadian hands will be eternally grateful! Thank you!

Are you enjoying the articles on Medium so far? Consider joining Medium to read all the articles you want!

If you join with the link below, I will receive a small commission.

Sources

Photo by Gratisography from Pexels Photo by Pixabay from Pexels Photo by Alexandr Podvalny from Pexels Photo by Skitterphoto from Pexels

Travel
Traveling
Tips
Thoughts
Life
Recommended from ReadMedium