Greetings.
I’m back in Paris at present after a rare vacation.
The time away was relaxing, invigorating, and enlightening, and I’ll be sharing more details in the near future.
What I can tell you, after 5 international flights in 3 weeks, is that air travel is changing, and not for the better. And it’s not just me being the grumpy Old Money Guy. Airline industry reports, surveys of cabin crew, and online comments and columns by business and leisure travelers all confirm my worst suspicions as well as my recent experiences.
Airline passengers have become less polite, more impatient, and more demanding in recent years. As we’ve previously discussed here, they’ve also taken to dressing horribly…or barely getting dressed at all.
These factors can contribute to a less that enjoyable flight, but there are things that we can do to mitigate the unpleasantness and have a more enjoyable travel experience. Like it or not, the airplane is often where our getaway begins and ends, so this part of our vacation is key.
Some simple things to remember include the following:
First, limit your carry-on baggage. The gentleman sitting next to me on my last leg back to Paris had boarded with a backpack, carry-on bag, and satchel. Not only did his items take up more than his fair share of overhead storage space, he assumed that he’d store one of his items on the floor in front of my seat. That didn’t happen, of course, but the lack of courtesy didn’t help.
Second, when you board the flight, be patient. You’re not fleeing a dictatorship (yet). You’re on a scheduled commercial flight. There are seats for everybody, and the plane is not gong to taxi and take off until everyone’s on board and buckled up. So if the retired couple in front of you are slow to find their seats, don’t sweat it.
Third, don’t lean your seat back during the flight. Sure, it might be a little more comfortable, but it really is a pain for the person sitting behind you. People are bigger. Seats are smaller. The top of your head is not pretty, especially close up. Be thoughtful. Sit upright.
Fourth, unless it’s absolutely necessary, don’t make extra requests. The flight crew have their hands full with unruly children of all ages who positively pounce when given the opportunity to have someone serve them.
Of course, the flight crew is there to serve you…and a couple of hundred other passengers. When they offer coffee or tea, don’t ask if they could make a nonfat decaf double macchiato with just an ever-so-light dusting of cinnamon. Just keep it simple with a Smile, a Please, and a Thank You.
Fifth, stay in your lane. We’ve all sat next to the inconsiderate passenger who takes both arm rests and spreads out like a sultan sailing down the Nile. Unless you’re in business class or first class, space is usually limited. Be aware. If you’re on the aisle, take the aisle arm rest and leave the middle person some room. Ditto for the window seat.
Sixth, we can hear your music coming through your headphones. Turn it down. Or better yet, turn it off. Read a book.
Seventh, be awake when the food is delivered to you.
Eighth, after landing, be calm. Take care when pulling your luggage out from the overhead compartments. Allow those in front of you to stand up, step out, and head to the exit.
In summary, a lot of this is common sense. Today, however, it’s just not that common.
Be a good traveler.
- BGT
Ahh, dressing well. It’s so pleasant seeing a well-dressed person. Not necessarily fancy, just pleasant to the eyes like a bouquet of flowers. Sunflowers are just as refreshing to the sight as tulips.
My mother told me years ago that travel experiences are better when you dress up, even if it’s just pressed jeans with a jacket and nice shoes.
Well said, Mary. Being well dressed makes the whole experience more enjoyable for you and for everyone who sees you.