Flying success

Abha Chaudhary

With the summer vacations around the corner, it’s time once again to revise our air travel etiquette. Air travellers have to face the reality of rigorous security procedures on top of flight delays and cancellations, anxiety about flying. Patience, courtesy, flexibility and a sense of humour will help you ease the tensed up situations.

On the go

The courteous traveller is cooperative with the security and the airline staff. Be informed of the latest luggage regulations like the weight limits for baggage and the number of pieces allowed. Do your part and have your photo ID and travel documents readily available and all your luggage tagged.

Security check

Dress and pack with security in mind. Remember you will have to take off scarves, jackets and shoes. Consider wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off. It’s a wiser option to pack jewellery in your carry on and put them on after you go through the security, to save yourself and others from unnecessary delays and hassles.

Punctuality pays

Reach the airport well in time to allow you a calmer pre-flight process. If your flight is delayed or you were caught in an ugly traffic snarl on your way to the airport...the counter agent did not cause it, nor did he cause any technical snag on the plane. So, try to keep calm and be pleasant. As you wait to board or de board the plane, don’t take up more space than you really need. Await your turn patiently ....remember there are others too who have endured a long flight.

Welcome aboard

You are all settled when a passenger asks you to swap seats. You don’t have to comply though switching is a kind gesture to do when it seems warranted. If you decline, do so politely. And please do seek permission before you quickly occupy another’s seat presuming that the original occupant is bound to agree. Oh, and please do follow the cabin baggage etiquette. Start by navigating your strollers and back packs with precision as you walk down the aisle of the plane. Ladies carry your ever- so-loaded shoulder purses in front of you. Brushing them against the co-passengers’ ears might not be too welcome. When you reach your seat, quickly put your bag into the overhead bin above your seat or one nearby taking care not to squash other people’s belongings. If you can’t find a suitable slot, either put the bag under your seat (if it’s a small one) or, sit in your seat as you wait for the flight attendant for assistance. Till then don’t block the passage. There’s nothing more chivalrous I find in a gentleman than his offer to help me place my bag in the overhead loft. These little gestures of courtesy are huge indicators of goodwill and kindness. And I’m careful to thank him enough. Your test for civility continues as you just ignore and grin away at minor incivilities from others, but any truly unacceptable behaviour must be reported assertively to the flight attendant. If you have an aisle seat, keep your elbow or foot from protruding out. If a seatmate needs to move out across be considerate enough to step out and allow her free space. You have paid for your seat, but to recline it at will causing inconvenience to your fellow passenger behind you is rude. You might be all excited about your trip but the others might need to use the flight time to sleep or work…so keep your voice low. And block all noises from your electronic gadgets with headphones. Don’t surreptitiously read the laptop screen of the person beside you. Finally just a quick reminder of your toilette etiquette—leave it clean.

(Chaudhary is a Chandigarh-based image and style consultant)