Essential Air Travel Etiquette: What Not to Do on a Plane
Traveling by air can be an arduous experience, but maintaining basic courtesy is vital to ensure a pleasant environment for everyone aboard. Below are key behaviors to avoid while flying to keep interactions smooth and respectful.
1. Avoid Touching the Flight Attendants
Flight attendant Aiden emphasizes that physical contact with crew members is inappropriate. “Do not touch your flight attendants, period,” he states, noting that just addressing them verbally is sufficient to get their attention. The confines of an airplane should respect personal boundaries.
2. Don’t Request the Lavatory Immediately After Boarding
Asking to use the restroom right after boarding can disrupt the boarding process. Aiden notes, “Why didn’t you use it in the terminal?” When passengers are boarding, the crew is busy with crucial tasks like monitoring baggage and ensuring safety protocols. Plus, airport bathrooms are generally more spacious and pleasant.
3. Keep Limbs Within Your Seat
Due to limited space onboard, it’s crucial to keep your arms and legs within your seat. Aiden points out that blocking the aisle with body parts can impede service and annoy fellow passengers. If a crew member asks you to make space, please comply promptly.
4. Refrain from Rushing to Leave Immediately After Landing
Though it might feel like a race to deplane, standing up and crowding the aisle can be inconsiderate. Aiden advises maintaining patience after landing, stating, “It’s quite rude to other passengers.” Everyone else is also eager to exit, so waiting your turn fosters a more respectful atmosphere.
5. Trust the Flight Crew’s Instructions
It’s crucial to respect the authority of flight attendants. Aiden warns against questioning their instructions, indicating that they undergo extensive training to ensure passenger safety. “We are aviation’s first responders, so please treat us as such,” he urges, highlighting the depth of their training which covers emergencies beyond basic service skills.
6. Don’t Place Your Feet on the Armrest of the Person in Front of You
Etiquette expert Jenny Dreizen strongly advises against resting your feet on another passenger’s armrest, describing it as an unappealing invasion of personal space. Keeping feet in designated areas is essential to maintaining decorum during flights.
7. Going Barefoot Is Not Acceptable
Dreizen reiterates that removing shoes on a plane is not only poor etiquette but also unhygienic. “Plane floors are dirty, and I don’t want you to catch anything,” she remarks. Keeping shoes and socks on contributes to a cleaner environment for everyone.
8. Reclining Your Seat Requires Consideration
Reclining your seat can be fine, but it should be done cautiously. Dreizen advises that passengers should check behind them to ensure not to disrupt someone’s drink or electronic devices. “It’s a good idea to recline slowly if you can,” she notes, recognizing the tight quarters many airline seats impose.
By following these guidelines, passengers can contribute to a more pleasant flying experience for themselves and others. Respecting personal space and adhering to social etiquette ultimately makes air travel more enjoyable.