Airplane Etiquette
This is how you behave up in the air
Four and a half hours sitting next to a sweat otter, I was just about to gag. He was by the window and I was in the middle. It was clear: I couldn't go anywhere. Even the stewardess understood me, but she couldn't offer me another seat since the plane was packed. My goodness, those were the longest hours of my life.
I already have a love/hate relationship with flying. Somewhere the whole thing also has something contradictory: you go off on an adventure, spend a lot of money to make it happen, and then you sit like Danerolles croissants squished in a tin. Flying used to be stylish. You would arrive in your most beautiful dress, with a chic suitcase and top hat. No way you smelled. No way you wore a baggy jogging pants or displayed antisocial behavior. It's over, guys, time for a round of airplane etiquette. For the most bearable flight possible, everyone should adhere to these simple, small rules.
Sweaty armpits are forbidden
A bit of a golden rule: when you fly, you smell neutral and wear deodorant. You should have sprayed (or rolled) that on before getting on the plane. Perfume is also not really pleasant for your fellow travelers.
The same goes for strongly scented foods
I completely agree with you if you refuse airplane food and bring your own sandwiches. But does it have to be with peanut butter? Not very collegial for the other passengers.
Be careful when reclining your seat
As far as I'm concerned, everyone can do this (especially during a long flight). But: not while eating. It's also quite annoying if you're typing on your laptop, by the way. So first look behind you and warn the person behind you.
Never get drunk
A glass or two of wine is okay, but no one is waiting for drunken passengers. zit niemand te wachten.
Be polite to the stewardess
Seems logical to me. Although I see this go wrong so often that I wonder if it needs to be explained again. No, that poor woman can't do anything about you needing to buckle your seatbelt, turn off your laptop, and put your tray table up during landing.
Shoes off only if possible
And I think every person can determine whether that is possible or not. And again: when in doubt, don't do it.
Never grab the seat in front of you when standing up
Instead, use your own seat to get up. Especially on a long flight, it's very annoying when someone keeps pulling on your seat.
Reading a newspaper in a middle seat = pretty annoying
That unfolded origami bird takes up the view of pretty much the entire row. Also for the people who might want to look out the window. Solution? Buy a pocket-sized newspaper or magazine. Or go enjoy business class.
Watch your kids a bit
As a parent, you might not see it yourself, but others find your ‘cute’ little ones who are so cheerfully running back and forth through the plane a lot less charming. If you don't want dozens of irritated looks, keep an eye on them.
And then a little about your armrests...
Again, keep a bit of consideration for your fellow passengers. I can also get quite annoyed about this last point. Bet it all becomes a lot more pleasant if we just stick to the simple points above? Bon voyage!
P.S.: My embarrassing shame story on the plane have you read it yet?
