Sky-High Etiquette: What Every Passenger Should Know

Air travel can be stressful—from long lines at security to cramped legroom in economy class. While we can’t control flight delays or turbulence, we can make the experience more pleasant for everyone on board through good airplane etiquette.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or preparing for your first takeoff, here are some key tips to keep your in-flight manners on point:

• Respect personal space

  Airplane seats are tight enough as they are, so avoid spreading out into someone else's territory. Keep your elbows within your seat area and don’t hog the armrests, especially in the middle seat, where shared space is limited.

  If your plane has in-flight entertainment, remember not to tap too aggressively on the screen in front of you as not to shake the seat of the person in front.

  Moreover, make sure to check the body language of a fellow passenger before striking up a conversation. If they’re reading a book or wearing headphones, they might not currently be in the mood to interact with you.

• Be mindful with luggage

  When boarding, store your carry-on quickly and efficiently in the overhead bin above your seat, and not rows ahead. If it doesn’t fit, ask the cabin crew for help instead of shoving it in.

  Additionally, keep personal items like backpacks or purses under the seat in front of you to save bin space for others. Take note, overhead bins are shared spaces for everyone.

• Keep noise to a minimum

  Planes are not the place for loud conversations, endless video binges, or speakerphone calls. Bring headphones and keep volume low. Babies and kids may cry—that’s natural—but adults are capable of avoiding noise disruptions.

  So, remember to keep sounds quiet so as not to disturb others who are using their time on the plane to work, sleep, read, or just relax.

• Stay fresh and healthy

  If you're feeling under the weather, mask up and keep tissues handy. Cover coughs and sneezes into a tissue or your elbow to prevent spreading germs. It’s all about protecting others and minimizing germ-spread.

  Also, try to freshen up before boarding. Strong body odor or overpowering perfume can make things uncomfortable in a tight space.

• Move thoughtfully around the cabin

  Need to stretch or use the lavatory? Go for it, but make sure to avoid climbing over others unnecessarily or hanging out too long in the aisle. The galley isn’t a place to lounge either, so unless you're waiting for the restroom, steer clear.

  Refrain from standing when seatbelt sign in on, since the sign is there as a safety measure during takeoff, landing, or turbulence. Don’t put yourself and others at risk!

  Lastly, be mindful of your objects hitting others when standing up to leave, especially if you’re lugging a big backpack. Instead, hold your backpack in front of you while you’re in the aisle.

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Being a polite passenger doesn’t cost a thing, but it makes flying so much better—for you and everyone else on board.

So next time you buckle up for takeoff, don’t forget to pack your manners along for the ride!