I was inspired by a conversation with a friend who fell and fractured her knee while on vacation and had to return home for emergency surgery.
The airline gave her the only available seat, and when she boarded the plane, she found that she didn’t have enough leg room to be comfortable with her cast. The stewardess asked people in the extra legroom seats to switch with her and explained why, but no one was willing to move.
Although I realize most extra leg room seats are an extra charge, I’m sure some agreement could have been made if someone was willing to accommodate this lady. I became upset as I heard this story. It brought to my mind other rude situations
I have either seen or experienced while flying.
Whether we are flying for business or pleasure, we want our travel experience to be as uneventful as possible. This means encountering minimal unwanted stress. Some people avoid airline travel just because of potential issues.
The following tips can help to reduce stress levels during airline travel:
Be considerate when going through security. Be aware of those around you when removing shoes, jackets, etc. Excuse yourself if you bump someone.
While waiting to board the plane, don’t block the aisle in the terminal and come forward in the line only when your row is called. There is a reason for this protocol, which is to make seating easier when you board the plane.
If you are asked to switch seats with someone due to a physical issue or so loved ones can sit together and you are able, try to accommodate them.
When traveling with children, bring toys and other items to entertain them so they are not hanging over the seat or disturbing other passengers.
When traveling with babies, talk to your doctor about remedies for ear pain and try to fly at a time when they will sleep through most of the flight.
Try to use the restroom before boarding to minimize disturbing other passengers during the flight.
When reclining your seat, be courteous of the person behind you.
Be patient and courteous when deplaning.
Gentlemen, help ladies and the elderly with removing their luggage from overhead bins; it will expedite the boarding and deplaning process for everyone.
Saying please, thank you and excuse me improves the atmosphere for everyone.
Although some of these tips seem like common sense, a friendly reminder of the rules courtesy should be accepted.
