Excitement and festive cheer are definitely in the air as holidaymakers take to the skies this December. This comes with the responsibility to be kind and courteous towards fellow flyers.
Picture: GettyImages
‘Everyone is excited and looking forward to a much-deserved holiday this December. And amid all this festive cheer, we should also remember to be mindful of our fellow travellers to keep the in-flight mood as lekker as us South Africans!’ says Shanna Docherty, Regional Head of Trade Sales for Cathay – Middle East and Africa (MEA).
Here are a few great etiquette reminders to keep in mind when travelling.
Mind your manners
Take your parents’ advice and be sure to mind your manners when travelling. Greet flight attendants with a friendly smile when boarding. Extend a smile to fellow passengers seated next to or around you as well. This sets the mood for a pleasant flight ahead for everyone.
Kids on a plane
While a screaming infant or bored and energetic toddler may become a bit much for other passengers, try to spare a thought for their stressed-out parents. Instead of getting upset and complaining, rather pop some headphones in to drown out the noise. Better yet, ask if you can help with distracting or playing with the little one to ease some of the strain for travelling parents.
Picture: Getty Images
To recline or not to recline
The age-old question every air traveller must navigate at some point – should you recline your seat or not?
‘I would say, save full reclining for nighttime when most passengers will be resting, and return to the full upright position during mealtimes,’ says Docherty.
The armrest debacle
Another longstanding dispute among airplane etiquette experts is the argument over who should have access to an armrest during a flight. There are a few options to address this issue. You may have a conversation with the person next to you and agree on taking turns. Alternatively, be kind and relinquish any armrest rights you feel you may have to the other person, especially if they’re in the middle seat.
Personal grooming
Although a quick lipstick touch up or hand moisturiser application on a flight is perfectly fine – clipping your finger and toenails is certainly not! Avoid doing your nails too as the smell of nail polish and acetone can be pungent, especially in the tight quarters of a plane. In fact, rather leave extensive personal grooming for after the flight.
The tipsy traveller
With travellers excited and enjoying the holiday spirit, it can be easy to get a little too carried away with inflight alcohol consumption. Avoid over-indulging and losing inhibitions. If you do, it can create an unpleasant environment for flight attendants and passengers around you.
Image: Getaway Gallery
Twinkle toes
Keeping your shoes and socks on throughout a flight is recommended. This is to avoid potentially offensive odours from wafting through the cabin. Do not rest your feet – barefoot or not – on the armrests of the seats in front of you either, for the same reason.
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