On The Write Path

Airplane etiquette for the Bard

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Blogging Circle of Friends   (E) A group for WDC bloggers. #1901868 by Lyn's a sly fox

You have an opportunity to distribute an etiquette primer to every passenger on your next commercial flight. What does it say?

1. Be courteous. None of us are getting off this flight without the others. Courtesy may vary according to custom. Know where you are going and be aware that passengers fly both ways.
2. Follow the rules. Do what the stewards or pilot tells you to do. Arguments are best settled in court, not at 30,000 feet in the air. Safety is truly their #1 concern.
3. Be prepared. Know what you need beforehand to get on the plane, what you need in flight (like medications), what you need to get off. What you may need if connections are missed. Worry may make you miserable. Most airlines try to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Consult your steward.
4. Be aware of others. Strong odors, loud sounds, inappropriate clothing... anything that impinges on your seatmates may create issues and delay your flight plans. Don't become a character in someone's horror story. Consult your steward. Don't fly drunk.
5. In conversations... know that others may hold views contrary to yours. If you can have a quiet civil conversation few topics are verboten but... never joke about hijacking, hostages, or make fun of fellow passengers. This is neither the place nor time. Eye masks and earplugs, a polite smile can be your friend. Faking sleep... or actually sleeping can resolve many issues.

Advice:

A. BOOK THE SEAT YOU NEED. If you need an aisle seat, book an aisle seat. Expecting others to get up a dozen times is not okay. On the other hand, if you book an aisle seat be prepared to get up. Practice the virtue of tolerance.
B. If you have personal issues make sure that the stewards know. However, this should be done before you get on a plane, not after. An example is peanut allergies or special food requests. If you weigh 400 pounds then you need to understand the size of the seats. 1st class may be your only option... or paying for two or more seats. This should be done beforehand. Some seats are 17" across. Be advised that this is uncomfortable for many average sized people. (It should be illegal imho, but hey...) As is 28" legroom. Try to book seats with 32" on long flights if this is an issue. Consult SeatGuru. Speak to the airlines. Once seated there is little that anyone can do. If you are literally scared of flying talk to your doctor and therapist beforehand. Or don't fly.

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