Adhering to airplane etiquette is necessary for comfortable flying
Whether its asking to switch seats or interacting with aircrew, it’s important to show respect and consideration for others
Respecting people's space on an airplane can help reduce discomfort. (James Timmins)
Airplane etiquette is something that’s often debated, especially when it comes to changing seats.
As air travel becomes more common, so do the stories of bad experiences related to the seemingly simple act of changing seats. The decision to switch seats on a plane, whether it be for comfort or to get the window view, can be fraught with tension and misunderstandings.
One of the most common occurrences involving seat moving is when a parent requests to sit with their child. It is typically regarded as nice to grant such requests for the comfort and safety of their child.
However, passengers who deny such pleas are not always impolite. They might have specific reasons for choosing their original seat, such as medical considerations, personal comfort, or having paid an additional fee for a particular seat. In these cases, it’s fair for people to want to stay in their original seats, but saying so can create tension.
Declining a seat switch should be done courteously. Phrases such as, “I’m sorry, but I prefer to stay in my seat for some personal reasons” can help mitigate potential resentment. Clear and polite communication is the key to maintaining a peaceful and respectful atmosphere in the plane.
There is also the concept of equal trade, which basically means to switch seats aisle for aisle or window for window. It is unreasonable to ask someone to move from the aisle to a middle seat, as the latter is often less desirable due to limited space and access. If the requested seat switch is of equal or greater value, then passengers are generally more willing to fulfill that request.
Aside from seat switching, there are a handful of other etiquette problems that can cause friction among passengers. One is rude behaviour towards the aircrew, whose primary role is to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on board.
Being rude or dismissive towards aircrew is unacceptable. Passengers should understand that flight attendants are already working under challenging conditions and deserve respect.
Reclining seats is also a controversial issue. Although passengers have the right to recline their seats according to their comfort, it is essential to do so considerately. Before reclining their seats, passengers should check if the person behind them has their tray table down to make sure doing so doesn’t cause discomfort and/or spills.
Another common issue is when passengers place their feet on shared spaces, such as armrests or the back of the seat in front of them. Such actions invade other people’s personal space and can be quite annoying. Keeping feet on the floor and within one’s own space is basic courtesy.
Airplane etiquette is based on respect and consideration for others. Whether it’s about switching seats, interacting with the aircrew, or managing personal space, being mindful of fellow passengers can make air travel more pleasant for everyone.
Ultimately, everyone’s goal is to reach their destination comfortably and safely, and adhering to basic etiquette helps achieve that.
