Etiquette Essentials for a Seamless Flight Experience

Planes will be filled to capacity, testing one's patience and inevitably leading to some frustration. Add to that a seat-kicker, a slightly intoxicated stranger, and someone casually barefoot in November, and the Thanksgiving journey becomes even more challenging. Furthermore, this year is predicted to break records for air travel. The Transportation Security Administration anticipates screening more people on the Sunday after the holiday (November 26) than ever before in its two-decade history, and certain airlines are bracing for their busiest Thanksgiving travel season yet.

For a smoother experience, it is important for every passenger to embrace common courtesy during the flight. To provide insight into the best practices of airplane etiquette, CNN Travel consulted experts. The key aspect that is often lacking is self-awareness, as individuals often become engrossed in their own journey and overlook the fact that they are sharing the plane with many other passengers.

It never fails to astound me to witness such behavior, as it pertains to my personal belongings, my designated space in the overhead bin, my seat, my flight, my connection, and even my drink. It reflects a distinct self-centeredness in the way people conduct themselves on an aircraft.

According to Rich Henderson, a flight attendant of ten years, this mindset is perplexing considering that there are hundreds of passengers on board. It is crucial to acknowledge and respect one's surroundings and the individuals in proximity.

It starts with hello

Greet the flight crew with politeness as it has a significant impact. According to Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert and owner of The Protocol School of Texas, being pleasant to the first person you encounter on the plane can go a long way.

Andrew Henderson, a seasoned flight attendant with two decades of experience, echoes this sentiment.

Chair hogs, dining divas and boorish boozers: Is cruising etiquette lost at sea?

About those headphones

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Earbuds and noise-canceling headphones have their advantages and disadvantages. They are effective in blocking out unwanted noise, but they can also hinder our ability to pay attention in crucial situations. Rich Henderson emphasizes the importance of being aware of our surroundings, especially in emergencies. Flight attendants often joke that if there was an emergency, many people would still be on the plane because they are immersed in their phones, wearing noise-canceling headphones, and oblivious to what is happening around them. This thought is quite unsettling.

Passengers engrossed in their own thoughts often overlook beverage service and subsequently become irritated when they are skipped.

Noise-canceling devices, referred to as the definitive indication of a desire for privacy, certainly prove beneficial. Tired of chatting with your neighbor endlessly? Simply wear headphones. Furthermore, these devices act as a lifesaver when dealing with inconsolable babies.

So put them on your ears and be kind.

illustration by Stewart Scott-Curran/CNN

Kids on planes

However, situations involving unruly children are a different matter. Neglectful parents often compile lists of the most irritating behaviors on airplanes.

Parents, just like in any public setting, should be responsible for monitoring their children, according to Gottsman. Whether they are dining in a restaurant, shopping in a grocery store, or traveling on a plane, it is important for the child's safety and the comfort of fellow passengers. Parents should be mindful of their children kicking the seat in front of them.

Seat-kicking and other conflicts

Seat-kicking is a frequent passenger complaint, along with armrest-hogging and a laundry list of other grievances.

Andrew Henderson emphasized the importance of showing kindness towards one another. He suggested that instead of getting upset, adults should address issues directly, such as politely speaking to someone who is kicking their seat. Effective communication in such situations can prevent frustration from arising.

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Travel expert explains the 'unspoken rights' for every plane seat

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- Source:

CNN

According to Samantha Brown, a renowned TV host and travel expert, the decision to have the window shade up or down lies solely with the person occupying the window seat. In an interview with CNN, she stressed that the individual seated by the aisle does not have the authority to request the window seat person to lower the shade.

Proceed carefully, window seaters.

The rule on armrests

In terms of armrests, Gottsman stated that the middle seat is granted priority. According to her, the person occupying the middle seat always gets both armrests and has the freedom to choose how they want to lean.

Samantha Brown said the middle seat occupant definitely gets both armrests. "The middle seatthey get anything they want."

illustration by Stewart Scott-Curran/CNN

A measured approach to the seat-reclining question

The issue of seat reclining cannot be resolved in this discussion. To recline or not to recline is a highly debated topic among travelers. However, it is crucial to prioritize courtesy regardless of your decision.

If you choose to lean your seat backwards, it is essential to check if anyone's knees are up against the seat, if the tray table is down, or if someone has food on the tray table, advised Gottsman.

Rich Henderson believes in reclining, but with a condition.

"In general, I believe people should use their seats as intended," he expressed, emphasizing that on flights that include meal service, it is appropriate to lean your seat forward.

Boozing it up

Alcohol has been implicated in numerous severe air rage incidents in recent years. Passengers who consume alcohol both at the airport bar and on the plane often exhibit disruptive behavior, making them undesirable seatmates and customers. Consequently, these individuals often incur substantial fines.

illustration by Stewart Scott-Curran/CNN

Smelly food, smelly people

In close confines, it is difficult to avoid unpleasant odors. Therefore, it is important to consider the food you bring on board a plane. Consider avoiding fish and hard-boiled eggs, as they can be particularly strong-smelling and may disturb others.

Do your personal grooming at home and refrain from clipping your nails while traveling to your grandmother's house. However, it is essential to take care of your personal hygiene before boarding a flight. According to surveys, complaints about unpleasant smells from passengers, whether due to inadequate hygiene or excessive use of perfume or cologne, are prevalent.

Smelly feet – or any feet, really

Gottsman advises passengers to select a pair of shoes that will provide comfort throughout the flight, even if their feet swell. According to her, it is not acceptable to kick off one's shoes and take a quick nap. While a nap is permissible, shoes should remain on. Additionally, it is not advisable to walk barefoot or in socks when moving around the cabin, to the restrooms, or returning to one's seat.

Under no circumstances should you place your bare feet on someone else's armrest. Brown had an extremely annoying experience when this occurred, stating it as the worst passenger encounter she has ever had.

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