Most people have experienced traveling by airplane. Some people have to fly frequently for business trips, while many others fly with their families twice a year for vacations. Every passenger hopes for a smooth and pleasant flight, as the behavior on the plane not only impacts their own travel experience significantly but also affects the experience of other passengers.
To have a good flight experience, one must pay attention to airplane etiquette. Here are seven things that experts suggest you should never do on a plane.
Many passengers like to recline their seats for a nap during the flight. However, it is advised not to do so throughout the entire flight, especially when the passenger behind you is having a meal.
Etiquette coach Mariah Grumet told Business Insider that although passengers have the right to recline their seats since they have paid for their tickets, they should consider the person seated behind them while doing so.
Experts say that taking off your socks on the plane may not be welcomed by other passengers who may not appreciate the smell of your feet or socks. It is especially advised not to take off your socks on long-haul flights without changing them for an extended period.
If you really want to take off your shoes during the flight, the website “Travel and Leisure” suggests a better option is to bring a pair of lightweight shoes to wear on board.
Spraying perfume, painting nails, or releasing other strong-smelling items in the cabin may cause discomfort to those around you.
Sarah Jamesm, Deputy Digital Editor of the high-end travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller, stated, “Spraying anything in a confined area is not a good idea. Nearby passengers may suffer from asthma or allergies, and the smell could make some people feel sick.”
She recommends that if you truly want to enjoy a soothing, spa-like scent experience on the plane, you can spray it on a hoodie, travel pillow, or scarf before your flight.
Additionally, be careful in choosing the onboard snacks.
Sitting close to a crying baby on the plane can be frustrating, but one should not argue with exhausted baby parents.
Grumet emphasizes the importance of being friendly in such situations. She told Business Insider, “The parents are likely already very embarrassed, and you don’t want to add fuel to the fire by whispering or giving them disapproving looks.”
It is considered rude to accidentally lean on a completely stranger’s shoulder while dozing off.
“Travel and Leisure” suggests buying a neck pillow before flying and using it to lean on while sleeping to keep everyone happy.
It is advisable to control alcohol consumption before boarding, as it can make you feel uncomfortable during a bumpy flight.
“Simply Flying” points out that alcohol can also lead to unruly behavior on the plane.
Trying to be the first to get off the plane ahead of everyone else is definitely not a good idea. Grumet told Business Insider, “The most polite way to deplane is to let those in front of you go first.”
In situations of rushing for a connecting flight, Grumet points out that passengers should also consider others. You should not cut in line but inform the flight attendants so they can assist you in getting off the plane quickly.