Airplane Etiquette: Ideal Practices for Passengers

Anyone who boards a commercial aircraft is secretly hoping they aren’t seated anywhere in the vicinity of THAT passenger. You know the one…loud talker, space stealing, rushing into the aisle upon arrival, passenger. To avoid these annoying habits and ensure a smooth and pleasant flight for everyone on board, each passenger should practice these few basic airplane etiquette rules:

Board Gracefully

We know that boarding can be a chaotic process, but a little patience goes a long way. Therefore, wait for your group to be called before getting in line, and have your boarding pass open on your cell phone screen, or in your hand, if printed.

Once you have found your seat, avoid blocking the aisle as you stow your luggage. Quickly step aside after storing your bag so other passengers can move freely.

Use the Correct Overhead Bin

Ideally, you should use the overhead bin above your seat to store your carry-on luggage. Unfortunately, many travelers feel the need to keep an eye on their bag the entire flight, so they store it in the row ahead or across from where they’re seated. This presents a problem for passengers trying to utilize the bin above their own seat.

Keeping any valuables with you during the flight rather than inside your carry-on eliminates this concern. It also prevents the eventual bottleneck in the aisle, with passengers having to squeeze past other passengers trying to store or retrieve their bag.     

Whose Armrest is Whose?

Most people will agree that the middle seat is not the most desirable. The window seat has the view; the aisle seat has easy bathroom access. The middle seat? Nothing but tight quarters. 

To compensate for this, the least we can do is give them both armrests. Yes, both. It’s an unwritten rule of airplane etiquette. Besides, the window and aisle seats already have an armrest of their own, right?    

Take the Armrest, but Not My Leg Space

So, you’re the unfortunate one stuck in the middle seat, but you have been graciously given both armrests. This does not also entitle you to spread your knees into your neighbor’s leg room area. Remember, we are all cramped. Please keep your elbows and legs within your seat boundaries.   

Clear the Aisle

When boarding the plane, have any electronics, books, snacks or other items you may need during the flight already out of your carry-on if you intend to store it in the overhead bin. Rummaging through your bag once you get to your seat can be aggravating as it will halt the loading process.

Once seated, store your bag, purse, and other smaller items under the seat in front of you to maximize your space. Keeping objects as well as your legs out of the aisle makes it easier for passengers to move about in the cabin. Not to mention the flight attendants who are skillfully maneuvering the drink trolley back and forth. 

No Odorous Food, Please

Is that garlic burger with extra onions necessary? Strong odors can be truly overwhelming in a closed cabin. In fact, for some, powerful aromas can cause nausea or a whopping headache.  

While flying, be kind and stick with basic, although bland snacks and sandwiches. The other passengers as well as your stomach will truly appreciate it. 

Recline with Caution

While the amount of comfort you gain by reclining your seat is marginal, it is a personal choice. If you do recline, be considerate and check behind you first to make sure the person in back of you isn’t working on a laptop or eating. If all is clear, feel free to recline, but do so slowly.

Minimize the Noise

If you listen to music, movies, or games, use headphones or earbuds and keep the volume at a reasonable level. One that you can hear fine, but those around you don’t have to hear at all. In-person and phone conversations should be polite and not too loud as well.

When traveling with children, bring entertainment and snacks to keep them occupied. Do your best to manage any disruptions they may cause. Most passengers will be empathetic to a restless child, but not for the entire flight. Especially if the parents or guardians make no attempts to calm the child.

Wait Your Turn

Once the plane has landed and taxied to the appropriate gate, remain seated until it’s your turn to exit. There’s no need to jump up and stand in the aisle prematurely. Everyone is anxious to get off the plane, and this process will go much smoother (and faster) if you simply file out in order. 

With that said, certainly don’t wait until it’s your turn to exit to gather your items. Hold off on making that call the minute the seat belt light is turned off. Instead, take a moment to check the area around you and make sure you have all your belongings.

If we all practice a little patience and kindness when flying, it is sure to lead to a more enjoyable experience all around. 

Thinking of Flying Private?

Convenience and comfort are just two of the many advantages flying privately has over commercial flights.

Think you might be interested in this option for your next trip? Let Grand Aire help. We have over 35 years of experience in the air charter industry. We also operate the only 24/7/365 full service FBO on the field at KTOL.

Our Logistics Specialists are ready for your call 24/7/365. They will evaluate your needs and provide you with the best private charter options available. Contact us at 1-800-74-GRAND or email our team directly at logistics@grandaire.com