How to Be a Considerate Airline Passenger
Displaying Proper Etiquette and Manners when Flying
Aug 24, 2009
Airlines require compliance with flight attendant instructions. Yet, veteran travelers know that many passengers do not follow instructions. Often, it is the most well-traveled that deem themselves above the rules that are designed for everyone.
The rules may seem petty, but are always put in place for the convenience and safety of all passengers.
In addition to the requirements, there are small things that passengers can do to help their fellow travelers.
Entering the Airplane
Passengers should move quickly to their seat and find their seat. It helps to keep out the ticket to refer to. Passengers should take their correct seat, otherwise a domino effect occurs, with others scrambling for open seats until the attendant is needed.
If there is a need or desire to change seats, politely ask the person to switch, or contact the attendant for help.
On crowded planes, overhead space for luggage is at a premium. Passengers should put smaller items under the seat in front of them, and load overhead items in the most compact manner.
Electronic Equipment and Other Things that Delay Flights
Personal devices such as computers, MP3 players and video games must be off when taking off and landing. Cell phones need to remain off once the cabin door is closed. Delaying shutting off these devices can delay take-off.
Similarly, passengers should remain in their seats once they have taken them before the flight. The plane cannot back up from the gate until all passengers are seated. Seat belts need to remain fastened until the captain turns off the Fasten Seat Belts sign, and seat backs and tray tables need to be in the upright position.
In-Flight Airplane Etiquette
- Although most airplane seat recline, reclined seats make it more difficult for the passenger behind. Tray tables move, computer space is reduced and cramped conditions become worse. Thoughtful passengers at least assess the implications of reclining their seat on fellow passengers.
- Airplanes usually have small seats, and if there is someone in a middle seat, space is even tighter. To be considerate of others, keep arms, legs and other body parts within the confines of your seat area. Avoid a power struggle for leg room.
- Storing personal items should not intrude on others' space. Leaving items on the floor where they impede exiting in an emergency is dangerous and impolite.
- Airline passengers are situated very close, so be mindful of personal hygiene, maintain control of children, including trying to lower the volume on crying and screaming.
- Germs are an issue on planes, so attempt to stifle sneezes. If moving about the cabin is permitted, don’t stand or lean over someone to carry on a conversion with another.
- Exercising on a plane maybe healthy, but it isn’t fun for the person staring at squats or dealing with unwanted physical contact.
Good Etiquette when Leaving the Plane
After landing, the most efficient method of exiting the plane is to allow those closest to the door to exit first. Racing up the aisle disrupts the flow of exit and leaves those in the seats struggling with luggage.
Travelers may never see the people on an airplane ever again, and a courteous person onboard may never be noticed. Even so, politeness and courtesy make a more enjoyable trip for everyone.
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