Flying can be stressful, but good manners can make the experience better for everyone. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or only travel once in a while, knowing the unwritten rules of airplane etiquette is essential.
In this article, I’ll cover 10 etiquette rules you should never break when you’re on an airplane.
Respect personal space
Keep your arms, legs, and belongings within your own seat area. Don’t spread out into your neighbor’s space or put your feet up on the seat in front of you. If you need to get up, try not to grab or push the seat in front of you. Respecting others’ space helps everyone feel more comfortable in the tight quarters of an airplane.
Use headphones
Always use headphones when listening to music, watching videos, or playing games. Keep the volume low enough that others can’t hear it. This helps maintain a peaceful environment and allows other passengers to relax or sleep without disturbance.
Be mindful when reclining your seat
Before reclining your seat, check behind you to make sure you won’t crush someone’s laptop or spill their drink. Recline slowly and try not to go back all the way if the person behind you is tall. During meal times, sit upright to give the person behind you enough space to eat.
Keep smelly foods to a minimum
Avoid bringing strong-smelling foods on the plane. The smell can spread quickly in the enclosed space and bother other passengers. If you must eat, choose foods with mild odors. Be considerate of those around you who might be sensitive to certain smells.
Control your children
If you’re traveling with kids, do your best to keep them calm and quiet. Bring activities to keep them occupied and use headphones for their devices. Don’t let them kick the seat in front of them or run up and down the aisle. Remember, not everyone finds your children as cute as you do.
Be polite to flight attendants
Always treat flight attendants with respect. Say please and thank you, and follow their instructions. Don’t press the call button unless you really need help. Flight attendants work hard to keep everyone safe and comfortable, so showing them kindness makes their job easier.
Practice good hygiene
Take care of personal hygiene before boarding. Use deodorant, but avoid strong perfumes or colognes that might bother others. If you need to remove your shoes, make sure your feet don’t smell. Keeping clean helps make the flight more pleasant for everyone around you.
Be mindful in the bathroom
Keep the airplane bathroom clean for the next person. Don’t take too long, as others might be waiting. If you make a mess, clean it up. Always wash your hands and dispose of paper towels properly. Leaving the bathroom tidy is a simple way to show respect for your fellow passengers.
Board and deplane efficiently
When boarding, move quickly to your seat and store your luggage without blocking the aisle. When the plane lands, wait your turn to stand up and get your bags. Don’t push past others or try to cut in line. Patience and politeness make the boarding and deplaning process smoother for everyone.
Be considerate with overhead bin space
Only use the overhead bin space above your own seat if possible. Place your largest bag in the bin and keep smaller items under the seat in front of you. Don’t rearrange other people’s belongings without asking. Sharing overhead bin space fairly helps reduce stress and arguments during boarding.
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