Air travel has always been a bit of a pain, but it seems like things have gotten worse in recent years. People are more inconsiderate and rude than ever before, and it’s starting to make flying a real chore.
We’ve all seen it: the person who puts their bare feet up on the armrest in front of them, the parent who lets their child kick the seat back the entire flight, or the passenger who insists on talking on their phone at full volume. These are just a few examples of the many ways that people violate basic plane etiquette.
It’s gotten to the point where people are starting to say the quiet part out loud. In a recent interview, an American Airlines pilot said that passengers are the “worst they’ve ever been.” He cited examples of people refusing to wear masks, getting drunk and disorderly, and even assaulting flight attendants.
It’s clear that something needs to be done to improve plane etiquette. Here are a few suggestions:
- Never take your shoes and socks off and go bare foot. This is not only gross, but it can also be dangerous in the event of an emergency.
- If you’re in the window or aisle seat, the armrests are for the middle passenger. It’s not fair to hog both armrests, especially or the person stuck in the middle seat.
- Be mindful of your personal space. Don’t put your feet up on the seat in front of you or lean your head on the shoulder of the person next to you. And if you have long hair don’t put it over your setback and block the TV screen of the passenger behind you.
- Keep your voice down. No one wants to hear your conversation on speakerphone while waiting to take off or taxiing in.
- If you have a child, make sure they’re behaving themselves. If they’re not, take them to the back of the plane where they won’t disturb other passengers. Kids need breaks too so being them snacks, a tablet with their favorite programs, or anything and everything to keep them occupied.
- Put your phone away. No one wants to listen to your conversation or watch your videos. And if you are using a tablet to watch videos or play podcasts, ALWAYS use a headset.
- Be respectful of the flight crew. They’re just trying to do their job.
- Offer your seat to someone who needs it more than you do, such as an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or someone with a disability.
- If you’re sick, wear a mask and avoid coughing or sneezing on other passengers.
- Don’t overload the overhead bins. Pack light and put your luggage under the seat in front of you.
- Be patient and understanding. Flights can be delayed or cancelled for reasons beyond the control of the airline.
By following these simple tips, you can help to make flying a more pleasant experience for everyone.
