Ready for Takeoff: Be Sure to Pack Your Sky-High Manners

Flying requires passengers to spend time in very close confines with many strangers, but excellent manners can make it a good experience for everyone. Fei Meng

Unless you have your own airplane, flying requires you to spend time in very close confines with many strangers. Make it enjoyable by exhibiting excellent manners.

Be Patient

Unless you are flying on an airline that doesn’t assign seats prior to boarding, relax until pre-boarding is announced for those who need assistance. This announcement is your cue to get into line, after reviewing your boarding pass to determine when you board. First-class passengers are usually invited to board after the announcement, followed by general boarding.

If you are flying first class but arrive after general boarding has begun, don’t push your way to the front of the line while loudly announcing your esteemed status; instead, get in line and wait your turn—your seat will be waiting for you.

Recliner Wars

Airline seats are designed to be comfortable, but before you set your seat all the way back, check to see if the person sitting in front of you did the same. If they did, it might be difficult for you to use the dining tray or to easily access any items you may have stowed beneath the seat in front of you. Politely communicate with the passenger if this occurs, or ask a flight attendant to intercede on your behalf.