AIRLINE COURTESY
Airline transportation is an essential part of most travel plans. We are aware of the varied restrictions that are in place regarding liquids and security. Luggage weight limits are strictly enforced and the cost for checked baggage will vary with each airline’s policy. Travelers should also be aware of the restrictions for “carry on” baggage – one piece that will fit beneath the seat in front of you or in the overhead, and one personal item (purse, camera case or laptop). Checked luggage will result in a fee depending on the airline.
There are several courtesy issues on flights that have become problematic for travelers. It seems we have forgotten we should “Mind Our Manners” when on an airplane.
Be friendly when on an airplane. When you take your seat for the first time, smile and say hello to your seatmate. If the person is chatty and you do not want to be, immediately put your headphones on. This indicates you are not interested in idle chitchat and they will get the message. If they do not, just explain you have had a long day and you want to get some sleep or finish your book club book or whatever excuse suits you.
We have all experienced excessive headphone noise. Everyone seems to have an iPod and many don’t have a clue as to how much noise the earbuds emit. Listening to heavy metal is really annoying when it is not your “choice” of music. If you use earphones, turn them down, please.
The reclining seat issue is a significant irritation, as space is already limited on an airplane. On a short flight, try not to intrude on other’s space. If you wish to recline your seat on a long flight, turn around and give the person behind you a heads up and let them know you are about to invade their personal space. If the person behind you is using a laptop it will allow them time to adjust the computer so as to avoid damage or spilling a drink over their keyboard.
When you get up to use the facilities, don’t push or grab the seat in front of you in such a way that you wake the person in the seat, or worse yet pull their hair.
I know of no one who requests a middle seat when traveling. Without a doubt this is a lousy location. Generally flights these days are full so the middle seat is always occupied. It should be understood, the person in the middle deserves to use both armrests.
Spreading germs on an aircraft is likely in the re-circulated air. If you have a cold, cover your mouth when you sneeze. Even consider wearing a mask like the Japanese do when they are sick. This is a true courtesy for your fellow travelers. Since tickets are generally non-refundable, one rarely stays home if they are sick.
Since the airlines are reducing costs and often do not serve food, passengers will purchase food to carry on board. However, your fellow passengers would greatly appreciate you not boarding with McDonald’s, a pizza or any hot smelly food. While it smells good at the airport, on board a plane at 37,000 feet, not so much.
Please turn your cell phone off when requested by the flight attendants. Your last minute call while taxiing down the runway is generally not necessary. Most of us are not performing surgery remotely and rarely need to make that last minute call to save a life. If you do need to speak on the phone while on an aircraft, try using the “inside” voice your mother requested of you. The entire aircraft really is not interested in your conversation.
Try to place any items that you will want to use during your flight on top or within easy access in your hand luggage. Your book, magazine, iPod, Sudoku, pillow should be arranged so they are easily removed when you arrive at your seat. Placing these items at the bottom of your hand luggage delays boarding for everyone.
Hand luggage and personal items….. this is a REAL problem. Between the cost and the delays in processing checked bags, more travelers are packing their hand luggage to excess. As you move down the aisle to take your seat try not to swing your purse or backpack so that it nearly knocks out a fellow traveler. Back pack carriers are generally unaware how much space it taken up behind them and will often turn and smack someone in the face with their heavy bag.
The child traveling is always a challenge, not only for the parent but for fellow travelers. I do not believe anyone expects a child to be silent for a flight, but if you are traveling with children (of all ages) be certain you have items to entertain them and keep them occupied – books, paper and pencil, small hand games, snacks, music. When my children were young, I would pack small new toys (never seen before) and hand them (one at a time) to my children as they became bored during flight. Please rehearse with your children their expected behavior before boarding a flight, including excessive kicking of the seat in front of you. It is not the flight attendant’s job to keep your child happy, it is yours.
If you are traveling on a night flight, be certain to lower the window shade so when the sun comes up in the middle of the flight no one is disturbed. You might bring along eye shades to help you sleep.
While pre-flight security procedures are more streamline than they were 18 months ago, it does still take time for removal of shoes and placement of hand luggage. Be prepared to empty all your pockets (men in particular) of keys and change. Ladies, wear a minimum of costume jewelry or leave it in your hand luggage and reapply after security. All laptops must be taken out of hand luggage and pass through security independent of carrying case. If you choose to wear sandals or flip-flops, carry socks with you to put on your feet when you remove your shoes for security clearance – do you know how many passed through before you????
In today’s flying environment, no one Is more stressed than the flight attendants and gate agents. Their pay and their benefits have been cut and they often take criticism and flak from passengers regarding airline policy. Instead of taking your problems out on them, try a smile or a small box of chocolates to make their day!
Remember, courtesy is contagious! A friendly smile and consideration of your fellow travelers will go a long way.
