21 Flight Attendant’s Etiquette Rules That Will Change How You Fly (As Told By Crew Members)

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In the close confines of an airplane, etiquette can make or break your travel experience. From the sacred rule of the middle armrest to the delicate dance of reclining seats, we’ve canvassed the skies for the best tips and even included a few words of wisdom from the high-flying community. Buckle up and prepare for a smooth journey with guidelines that ensure everyone’s comfort.

Respect Personal Space

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In the confined quarters of an airplane, personal space becomes a luxury. Always keep your belongings within your area, avoiding the temptation to overflow into others’ seats. If you must get up, avoid grabbing the back of the seat in front of you; it’s startling and invasive. As online commenter JamieL remarks, “It’s simple – treat others’ space as you would want yours treated, and we’ll all fly happier.”

Headphone Volume Control

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A moment of inattention to your headphone volume can turn your entertainment into a public broadcast. Keep your volume at a level where it can’t be heard by your neighbors. Remember that sound leakage can be as disturbing as talking loudly.

Dim the Screens

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In a dark cabin, your bright screen can be a beacon of unwanted light. Be courteous and dim your device’s brightness, especially during nighttime flights or when lights are dimmed. If you’re watching something, consider the content and whether it’s appropriate for all surrounding eyes. “My kids don’t need to see your horror flick,” a parent posted on a travel forum.

Shoes On, Always

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Keeping your shoes on isn’t just about following a flight attendant’s etiquette rules; it’s a matter of hygiene and consideration. Airplanes are not the cleanest places, and walking around barefoot is unsanitary. Moreover, in case of an emergency, you’ll want to be ready to move quickly.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

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Flying can amplify the effects of alcohol, so moderation is key. It’s not just about avoiding drunkenness but also about maintaining decorum and not becoming a nuisance to others. Drink water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated.

Seat Reclining Courtesy

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Before reclining your seat, take a glance back to ensure you won’t disturb the person behind you. Recline slowly, giving the person time to adjust their belongings. Overnight flights are generally more accepting of reclined seats, but during mealtimes, stay upright. “Reclining during meals is a definite no-no,” says business traveler Mark in an online review.

Efficient Aisle Time

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When retrieving items from the overhead bin or navigating the aisle, be swift and considerate. Blocking the aisle for an extended period can be frustrating for fellow passengers and crew. If you need more time, step back and let others pass.

Quiet Conversations

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Keeping your conversation at a low volume is essential. This is not the place for loud laughter or sharing personal stories at a high decibel. Use your indoor voice, and remember that not everyone shares your excitement about the latest gossip.

Polite Service Requests

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Flight attendants are there to ensure your safety and comfort, but they’re not servants. When you need assistance, ask politely and be patient for a response. A simple “please” or “thank you” can make a world of difference. “A kind passenger gets the best service,” a flight attendant confides.

Mind the Middle Armrest

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The unspoken rule of the middle armrest is that it belongs to the middle seat. With limited space, the passenger in the middle often has the least room, so courtesy dictates giving them both armrests. If you’re seated in an aisle or window seat, yield the armrest to the middle-seat.

No Strong Scents

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Whether it’s perfume, cologne, or food, strong scents can be overpowering in a plane’s cabin. Be mindful of others who may have sensitivities or allergies to certain smells. It’s best to avoid applying fragrances just before boarding or eating aromatic foods during the flight.

Dispose of Trash Properly

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Keeping the cabin clean is a collective responsibility. Always use the seatback pocket for your personal trash temporarily and hand it to the crew when they come by with the garbage bag. Leaving trash in your seat area is not only unsightly but also adds to the workload of the cleaning crew. “I always make sure to clean up after myself; it’s just common courtesy,” mentions a considerate traveler in an etiquette article.

Reconsider Reclining on Short Flights

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On short flights, where time is minimal, consider the necessity of reclining your seat. The person behind you will appreciate having their personal space respected during a brief journey. By staying upright, you also contribute to a more open cabin environment.

Be Prepared for Security

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Streamlining your passage through security benefits everyone. Have your documents ready and be familiar with the rules regarding liquids and electronics. The quicker you get through, the less you hold up the line. “Nothing’s worse than someone unprepared at security causing a backup,” gripes a frequent business flyer on a forum.

The Window Shade Compromise

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If you’re sitting by the window, you have control over the shade, but consider your fellow passengers. On bright days, lowering the shade can ease the glare for others. During sleep times, it’s courteous to keep the shade down, but during takeoff and landing, others may appreciate it being up.

Seat Switching with Sensitivity

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If you’d like to switch seats with someone to sit near a friend or family member, always ask politely and be prepared for a ‘no.’ Never pressure someone to move, as they may have chosen their seat for a reason. If someone offers to switch with you, express your gratitude.

Be Patient with Children

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Flying can be a stressful experience for young travelers and their parents. If a child is noisy or restless, show empathy rather than irritation. Offering a kind smile or a helping hand can go a long way. “A little patience with kids on a plane makes the whole atmosphere more pleasant,” a family travel blogger suggests.

Controlled Boarding and Exiting

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Board the plane as efficiently as possible and, upon landing, allow those in front of you to exit first. Rushing the gate or crowding the aisle only slows down the process for everyone. Be organized with your boarding pass and identification, and once you have landed, gather your belongings promptly.

Dress Appropriately

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While comfort is key on a flight, maintaining a neat appearance is also important. Dress in a manner that’s respectful to others, avoiding anything too revealing or sloppy. This shows that you’re considerate of the shared travel environment.

Respect Rest Times

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During long flights, there are unspoken times when lights are dimmed, and passengers are expected to rest. During these periods, it’s considerate to minimize movement and noise. If you must use the overhead light, do so briefly. “The cabin’s rest time is as sacred as nighttime at home,” says a traveler in an online travel advice column.

Acknowledge Good Service

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When flight attendants provide you with exceptional service, acknowledging their effort is a kind gesture. A thank you, or a compliment can be a bright spot in their day. Remember, a positive interaction not only uplifts their spirits but can also encourage continued excellent service.

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