While booking a flight, we often consider factors like finding the cheapest fare, choosing convenient flight times, and getting a generous baggage allowance. For many travelers, securing their preferred seat is also a top priority. However, isn’t it inconvenient when someone demands a seat change after you’ve selected an aisle or window seat for yourself?

Well, a woman took to Reddit to share how she refused to give up her window seat on a flight despite pressure from a mother and her teenage son. Keep reading to discover how the author’s decision led to accusations of discrimination and sparked drama during the flight.

It’s never fun being stuck next to entitled passengers on a flight

Image credits: Pixabay / pexels (not the actual photo)

A woman recounted being called selfish after declining to switch seats with an entitled teenager

Image credits: Marten Bjork / unsplash (not the actual photo)

Image credits: ANA NH005 LAX-NRT / flickr (not the actual photo)

Image credits:  Global Residence Index / unsplash (not the actual photo)

Air travel has seen a significant increase over the past decade

In 2023, approximately 4.35 billion people traveled by air. Whether you are going for a vacation, business meeting, family visit, or cultural exploration, flying makes it easier for us to explore new destinations and stay globally connected.

And, while many of us are probably familiar with flight rules such as restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, there are also a few etiquettes we should observe when cruising 30,000 feet above the ground.

Let’s begin with when we first enter the aircraft. Reaching your seat can be quite annoying, especially if there is a long line. However, once you find your seat and have put away your luggage, avoid standing in the aisle for too long. You should wait until other people are seated before you start finding your headphones or grabbing your favorite book.

“It’s always kind of mind-blowing to see that because it’s my bag, and my overhead bin, and my seat, and my flight, my connection, and, you know, my drink, and it’s very me when it comes to just how people behave on an airplane,” says Rich Henderson, who’s been a flight attendant for about a decade. “You’ve got to be aware of your surroundings; you’ve got to be respectful of the people around you.”

It’s essential that people observe flight etiquette while traveling

Image credits: Kelly / pexels (not the actual photo)

As airplane cabins are often cramped, it’s essential that we respect our fellow passengers’ personal space. So while it might seem romantic in movies, we should refrain from leaning excessively on the person sitting next to us. Also, hogging the armrest is a big no. Imagine someone keeping their hands in an awkward position for six hours because you decided to take up all the space.

You might want to get comfortable right after the flight takes off, but look behind you before you recline your seat. People usually open their tray tables to keep their laptops or food, and if you quickly put your seat back, their things might fall or break.

Seat-kicking on planes is surprisingly a common experience during air travel. Whether it’s a restless child behind you or an inadvertent bump from a fellow passenger, it can be quite annoying. Also, before you take off your shoes or socks, make sure your feet don’t smell. The last thing anyone wants is to be seated next to someone who is causing an unpleasant sensory stir.

Creating excessive noise can be disruptive for fellow passengers

We should also be mindful while using our electronic devices. For instance, if you are listening to music, watching movies, or playing games, don’t do it at a high volume. You can always use headphones. Moreover, avoid speaking loudly with others unless you’re eager for all the passengers and crew to become unintended participants in your conversation.

Flight attendants put in a lot of effort to make sure that passengers are comfortable and safe. Throughout the journey, try to be kind and cooperative with them. For instance, when they serve you your meal, say thank you or smile at them. Behaving rudely with the crew is inconsiderate.

Lastly, expecting people to switch seats with you is not fair. People often choose specific seats for reasons such as comfort, views, or proximity to friends or family. When someone demands a seat change, it might inconvenience both the passenger and the airline staff. For some, a window seat might be a small luxury that turns a tiring flight into a good one.

In this particular instance, the woman was looking forward to enjoying her window seat. She stood her ground despite being accused and yelled at by her fellow passenger. Have you ever been in or witnessed an airplane drama? Do you think you are a good traveler?

Many praised the author for standing her ground and not giving up her seat

Image credits: Ok_Dingo2647

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