As summer holidays finally take over, airports are getting busier! Thousands of UAE residents are either jetting off for a getaway or returning home after a well-earned break. But before you settle into your seat, it’s worth remembering one thing – an airplane isn’t your private lounge at 35,000 feet. That means stretching your legs too far and ignoring the people around you can quickly become a big annoyance for fellow passengers. If you’re travelling soon, remember these simple etiquette rules that will help make the journey better for everyone!
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1. Keep Your Feet Within Your Own Space
Long-haul flights can make everyone want to stretch out. But your extra legroom shouldn’t come at the expense of another passenger’s discomfort. Cabin crew specialists shared that passengers accidentally invade others’ personal space by stretching their feet through seat gaps. While it may seem harmless, placing your feet near another passenger’s seat, armrest, or personal space can make them uncomfortable.
2. Recline Your Seat…But Be Considerate
The recline button is there for a reason, but using it thoughtfully can make your flight experience smooth! Before leaning your seat back, take a quick look behind you. The passenger could be eating, working on a laptop, watching something on the tray table or simply trying to get comfortable.
3. Help Children Have A Comfortable Flight
Flying with children can be challenging, especially during long journeys. Little ones tend to become restless; however, monitoring them can make the experience better for everyone on board. Encourage children not to kick the seat in front and to keep noise levels low. It’s also helpful to keep the area tidy, as Cabin crew often have to handle extra cleaning after flights.
4. Use The Call Button ONLY When You Need Help
Cabin crew members are there to assist passengers, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. However, avoid repeatedly calling out, tapping crew members or trying to stop them while they are busy. And use the button when you need assistance. Remember, flight attendants manage safety checks, passenger requests, and onboard services throughout the journey. So just be patient and they will help you as soon as they can.
5. Book Your Preferred Seat Before Boarding
Want to sit next to your travel companion? It’s always better to arrange seat changes before boarding. Trying to swap seats while passengers are still boarding can slow the process and, more importantly, disrupt passengers who have planned their seats in advance! If you have a seating request, speak to airline staff at the gate or before boarding starts.
6. Keep Phone Calls Short During Boarding
Boarding is one of the busiest moments of any flight. Passengers are finding seats, placing bags in overhead compartments and moving through narrow aisles. While a quick call is understandable, long conversations while standing in the aisle can hold up other travellers. Instead, save longer chats until you’re settled. Your fellow passengers will appreciate it!
7. Goes Without Saying…Always Be Polite To Cabin Crew
Cabin crew members play a key role in making flights safe and comfortable. And remember that they are also handling hundreds of passengers and multiple responsibilities at once. A polite request and a little bit of patience can make a big difference to your in-flight experience.
8. Leave The Lavatory Ready For The Next Passenger
Flight bathrooms are small shared spaces used by countless travellers several times during a trip. Make sure you dispose of waste properly, avoid leaving a mess behind and leave the space ready for the next person.
9. Book Extra Luggage Before Reaching The Airport
Think you might need another suitcase? Add extra baggage before arriving at the airport. Booking extra baggage online saves money, as airlines often charge significantly more when passengers pay at the check-in counter.
10. Remember To Double-Check Your Baggage Allowance
Every airline has different baggage rules. And exceeding your allowance can lead to unexpected fees. Before heading to the airport, check your airline’s weight limits and measure your luggage if needed. A quick suitcase check at home means a less stressful (and sometimes awkward) repacking at the counter.
11. Don’t Forget Save Important Travel Details Offline
Don’t rely completely on airport or hotel WiFi when travelling. Remember to save screenshots of your boarding pass, hotel confirmation, booking details and important travel information before leaving home. Having everything available offline can be a lifesaver if your internet stops working.
12. Arrive Earlier During Busy Travel Periods
Since it’s the summer peak travel season, there are longer queues, crowded terminals, and heavier airport traffic. If you’re flying during summer holidays or busy weekends, give yourself extra time to check in, clear security and reach your gate without rushing.
Whether you’re flying for a quick escape or a long-haul adventure, good travel etiquette and smart planning can literally make the journey seamless for everyone. So, keep your space respectful and avoid unnecessary airport costs! And for more UAE travel tips, keep following Gulf Buzz!
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