The Do's and Don't's of Airplane Etiquette

When getting on a plane, finding your seat and getting comfortable is usually a top priority. You want to put your bags up, sit back in your seat, and kick off your shoes for a long ride ahead of you. However, one person’s comfort can be (and usually is) another person’s biggest pet peeve. While most of these listed may seem like not a big deal, it can make a huge difference to those around you who are also in it for the long haul.

Keep You Devices at a Reasonable Sound Level

Keeping your devices at silent or choosing to use headphones is always the best option when in public, but especially the option to take when boarding a flight. Others around you most likely don’t want to hear the “dings” from your phone or your child’s game.

Keep Your Seats Where They’re At

This is a big one. I personally don’t enjoy reclining for the simple fact that the pros just don’t outweigh the cons. It gives me 3 extra inches and makes the people behind me miserable. Instead, if you’re looking for comfort, try getting a really great neck pillow. This one is my favorite!

Sit in Your Assigned Seat from the Beginning and Don’t Hold Seats That Aren’t Assigned

Most airlines have designated seating, therefore it is best to sit in the seat you’ve paid for. When the doors are closed you can normally ask to move if you need to. While we may not realize it at the time, it’s rude to ask others to move just to benefit you. Lastly, if you are on a carrier that doesn’t assign seats the rules state you are not allowed to hold seats or tell a person they are not allowed to sit in a seat.

Do Not Argue with the Flight Attendants.

While in the heat of a frustrating moment it can be tempting to want to argue back, it actually helps no one. Sometimes people mistake flight attendants for waiters which can lead to conflict. Their job is to keep you safe while on board, not cater to your every want.

Show Your Children the Respectful Way to Fly

Something I run into time and time again is the frustration of parents letting their children run up and down the aisles of the plane or kick the back of the seats. This one is a quick trigger for most people’s pet peeve’s and can easily be avoided with early prep entertainment. Pack something for your kids to do to keep them amused - a coloring book, a gaming device, snacks, etc.

Limit the Amount of Alcohol You Consume

While most airlines do serve alcohol, it’s recommended that you don’t treat it like a bar. Getting drunk in a public setting where no one around you has the choice to remove themselves from the situation is inconsiderate.

We hope that by sharing these do’s and don'ts of airplane etiquette, you’ll be able to have a more pleasant flight for yourself and those around you.

Be sure to check out What It’s Really Like to Fly United Polaris!