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Etiquette rules for airplane travel

An enjoyable trip for everyone. - by Laura Barry
  • 14 Aug 2018

There’s nothing worse than sharing a plane with rude or inconsiderate people. While many of us were taught the ‘treat others how you want to be treated’ motto, other people appear to have adopted an entirely different life motto altogether. 

Regardless whether your flight is short or long-haul, ensure you observe basic airplane travel etiquette so you, and everyone else around you, has a pleasant flight.

Be kind to your cabin crew

The cabin crew on planes are there to help you throughout your flight, as well as overseeing in-cabin safety requirements. If a member of the cabin crew politely ask you to do something, follow their instructions, because they wouldn’t be asking you if it wasn’t necessary. Just remember: cabin crew are people too, and a plane is their place of work.

Remember, cleanliness is next to godliness

Some airlines have policies in place that allow them to remove foul-smelling passengers from their aircraft. Ensure you and every member of your family is showered, teeth are brushed and fresh socks are on before heading out to the airport.

people taking selfie on plane
Getty

Be patient

A frustrating as it is to be seated next to a crying baby or stuck at the back of the boarding line, getting angry about it will only make matters worse. Treat parents of children with respect and understanding, and rest assured knowing the plane won’t leave until the last person is seated anyway.  

Middle seat gets the armrest

While many people go with the ‘first come- first served’ policy, the poor person in the middle seat has no easy access to the aisle, nor do they have a window to look out of or rest their head on. Be kind and let them have the armrest.

 

Be polite when reclining

On long haul flights many people recline their seats to catch a little shut-eye on the journey. Next time you want to do this, take a moment to check if the person behind you is using the tray table to eat. If so, wait until they’re done, then recline.

mother with baby on plane
Getty

Be aware of personal space

Yes, every seat on an airplane is cramped and uncomfortable, but that doesn’t mean you can take up space that isn’t yours. Everyone is entitled to the space their seat affords them, so that means so falling asleep on strangers’ shoulders, man-spreading, kicking or hitting the seat in front of you, or letting your bags or coat fall into someone else’s space.

If you need to stretch, do so in the galley or while waiting for the bathroom.

Do a sound check

Although you might be really into Katy Perry’s latest album, your neighbour might not be. Ensure your music isn’t up so loud the person beside you can hear it, or if you have a digital or gaming device (or your children do) put it on silent.

You might also like:

How to sleep on a plane

How to improve the taste of your inflight meal

How to survive a long haul flight

  • Travel
  • Better Life
Laura Barry
Laura Barry
Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.

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