Kindness When Flying In The Friendly Skies

Planning to fly soon? It seems we are hearing stories almost everyday about airline passengers being rude, unruly and unkind to each other – and even worse, being threatening and violent toward others.

As kind human beings, we can do better than that! As I say on a regular basis, remember kindness begets kindness. Here are a few friendly reminders when flying in the skies with your fellow travelers:

• Treat the mass transit and airport/airline workers with respect and courtesy – they’re doing their job as best they can, and must comply with and communicate to passengers their company’s requirements for safe and pleasant travel. The same goes with treating the flight attendants with decency and civility.
• When boarding, follow the general airplane guidelines with your two proper sized carry on items, for storage in the overhead bin and under the seat in front of you. To the best of your abilities use the overhead bin above your own seat so others may do the same.
• When you need to get up out of your seat, politely let your seat mates know so that they can make room for you (or you can make room for them). If you need a little support or balance, use your own seat so as not to bother the passengers around you.
• Maintain your voice level to “indoor voice” when speaking to others, especially across the aisle or if you must make a quick phone call.
• Use earbuds or headphones when listening to music or watching a video.
• Make sure your feet and bag stay under the seat in front of you so as not to impede others, and please, keep your shoes on. The same goes with keeping your elbows and legs to yourself.
• If you really feel the need to recline your seat, take a look behind you, and ask the person to whom it may effect if it would disturb them.
• Upon landing, take your turn and wait until the passengers in the seats ahead of you have collected their items before you do the same. If you’re tight on time and need to get to your next gate quickly, ask a flight attendant to help, and let the passengers around you know what to expect once the plane lands.
• Be patient with those who may have little ones, an injury or health-related conditions that make it necessary for them to move and/or a walk a little slower. It can make someone’s day just by offering to get their bag out of the overhead, or help unsnap a walker or stroller.
• Be respectful of others’ choices when it comes to mask wearing; no need to comment or worse, chide.

“Be kind, don’t judge, and have respect for others. If we can all do this, the world would be a better place.” — Jasmine Guinness. Yes indeed, and that includes the travel world.