The debate over airplane etiquette rages on, but a commercial pilot wants to set the record straight once and for all.
Speaking anonymously to , the flight expert, who has been a pilot for 10 years and currently works for one of the world’s largest airlines, addresses some of the most hotly debated passenger bugbears.
From allocating seats to other passengers, to the most appropriate flight shoes, to packing luggage in an overhead locker, the frequent flyer gives judgment on a number of hot topics.
Take a flight down to see how you can change your onboard habits for a smoother, less stressful ride.
Sit with your feet down and your arms in front of you
A veteran airline pilot says passengers should respect those around them and sit upright with their feet on the ground and arms in front of them (stock image)
The seat is designed for a single seating style. This means feet on the ground, not in the air and resting on the front seat, and arms in front of the body. The seat is designed to keep you secure in the worst of turbulence and in the unlikely event of an incident. If you can’t put your seat belt across your lap, you’re sitting incorrectly.
ALWAYS wear shoes on the plane
The floor in the main cabin is vacuumed but not mopped. People vomit on these materials on a daily basis, so it’s a good idea to wear shoes. For added comfort, you can slip on slippers or flip-flops. Always wear shoes in the bathroom as the liquid on the floor is most likely not water. Treat it like a hostel, and a dirty one at that.
When the crew is at rest, they always have at least flip flops or disposable slippers to walk around the plane.
Visit the galley instead of ringing the bell
Just stop being lazy, get up and go to the galley to request items from the cabin crew. Both sides benefit from this. If you ring the call bell and ask for something from your seat, chances are someone around you is also making a request. This means your order will take longer.
It’s always best to go to the galley the first time. The crew may tell you to ring the bell next time to avoid crowding in that area, but at least then you’ll know and you’ve established some relationship.
Once you’ve paid for your seat, DO NOT give it up
In the age of the Internet, this is a difficult question. Most people who are organized and know where they want to sit choose their seats weeks or months before a flight. If people want to make sure they sit together, they should pay the extra money to do it instead of expecting others to move.
Passengers should also never ask to swap aisle seats for middle seats as this is just plain ridiculous. My top tip is to stock up on some chocolate in the duty free area to sweeten up the shops if needed.
“Always wear shoes in the bathroom as the liquid on the floor is most likely not water,” says the flight expert (stock image)
Regarding touchscreen TVs, the pilot says, “You should use as little force as possible.”
Request a special meal as soon as you board if not pre-ordered
If you’re looking for a special meal that you didn’t order, ask the crew right away once you’re in the air. Just go into the galley and explain your situation and they usually can help you further. They often make extra vegetarian meals so there should always be some leftovers.
If you’re traveling long-haul and have special dietary needs, it’s worth stocking up on treats at the airport. If you ask nicely, the crew is more than willing to refrigerate and reheat the food!
Stow bags in the overhead bins, wheels facing the window
Overhead lockers are a tricky thing in the age of cheap flights as nobody wants to check their bags and pay the premium. If you can, stow your bag in the overhead compartment with the wheels facing the window to make the best use of space and you can usually fit two to three weekend suitcases that way.
If you’re one of the last to board the plane, immediately look for places to store your luggage. This is because 95 percent of the time, there will be no space near your seat. Just because there’s an overhead bin above your seat doesn’t mean it’s reserved for you. First come first serve.
Use as little force as possible on the touch screen TVs
With touchscreen TVs, you should use as little force as possible. The last thing you want to do is break the screen and be left without entertainment for the rest of the flight. If the person in front of you feels you press the screen, you are pressing way too hard! As soon as you get an angry look from the person in front of you, calm your knock.
If you can, the flight pro says it’s best to stow your bag in the overhead compartment with the wheels facing the window, as this makes the most of the space
“If you’re looking for a special meal that you didn’t order, ask the crew as soon as you’re in the air,” says the pilot
Don’t get up once the plane has landed
Just wait your turn when the plane lands. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or two won’t get you anywhere. Running through the airport will. Be patient and kind. If you disembark in an orderly manner, row by row, the plane will empty much faster.
Use a neck pillow to prevent leaning on others
Invest in a neck pillow. This keeps you in your personal space as much as possible. Also, try sleeping with your limbs under a blanket, as this will keep you from moving around too much. If you sleep in an aisle seat, give the armrest to the poor soul in the middle seat as they are already short on space.
Cabin crew values good manners
“Please” and “thank you” go a long way here. The crew usually deals with hundreds of rude passengers. Be the one who has manners and ask her how her day is going. You will be surprised by the extra freebies that come with manners or light conversation.
Pre-download TV shows for children and book front-row seats for babies
The forward rows of cabins have cradles. So if you have a baby try to book these seats even if you have to pay a premium – they are worth it! For toddlers and young children, bring their car seats on board. The child is used to sitting in it and it becomes more comfortable for him to sleep in it.
Tablets and smartphones with pre-downloads of their favorite shows are perfect for keeping little ones entertained. The crew is also always willing to help as long as you show your manners. Most cabin crew will happily entertain your child for hours as it also helps their shift go faster!