Flying can be a pleasant experience or an uncomfortable ordeal altogether. Many times when you touch down and finally reach your destination the first thing someone says to you is:

“How was your flight?”

I usually may say great, good, or just OK, this depends very much on how comfortable I was on the flight in terms of my ability to sleep, the food I was served, the smoothness of the flight and finally my experience with fellow travellers and the air hostesses. Grooming and Protocol in the air is just as important as it is on ground, your etiquette skills and manners are put to test when you have to deal with long haul flights, various stopovers, limited space, unexpected delays, grumpy passengers and peoples flying temper tantrums. Even when you are embarking on a short journey that is just an hour flight, you will experience the same emotions as someone else going on a twelve hour long haul flight. It starts from the check-in counter right through to boarding gate there are no real short cuts to travelling procedures. It takes a lot of patience, discipline and courteousness to embark on a flight without getting upset by one thing or the other, the smallest incident can trip you off if you are not careful.

Manners and politeness are a choice you make, it can save you time, keep you morally and intellectually in check and boost your reputation. The lack of it will instantly sabotage your image; you never know who knows you in public places especially when flying, do not be caught off guard. If you want to receive courtesy and respect, you will first need to show it to others.

Your Image :

Where comfortable clothing to feel smart to accommodate any unexpected delays or circumstances. Carry along a  jacket incase the weather changes, a decent compact handbag for important documents.

Grooming.

It is ideal to take on board you own small grooming kit with a brush or comb, minimal make up, small perfume or cologne for extra freshness.

Seating

Many passengers prefer the window seats for privacy; however caution must be taken when moving up and down the aircraft as this can create a lot of inconvenience to other passengers if it is frequent. Choose your preferred seating position while checking in online the aisle or window seats are most preferable.

Baggage Hole

Out of courtesy follow your seating arrangements as given to you upon check in. if you are uncertain, call the air hostess for assistance.

Space.

Whether you are in economy, world traveller, club or first class, you are confined to the space you are given. Your bags, books, computers including your jacket and shoes should not spill out to your neighbor’s space. You are entitled to one arm rest most times, if you claim both you would be considered rude.

Washroom

You are not to leave your section to use the facility in another class. It is also important at this time to keep the wash room as clean as possible. Many times the floor is wet, the sink is full of soapy water and tissue paper is carelessly lying everywhere. The washroom should be left just the way you would like to see it as you enter.

Eating/Food

While completing your check-in procedures it is easy to indicate the type of food you would like especially if you are vegetarian. At times it is possible that this information was not received and you are given something else. Politely reject the food and ask for any other alternative available, be gracious when asking for extra snacks, bread or drink.

Talking Toms

Some passengers are always excited to see people they know on flights, this is their opportunity to engage in long chats. You will find passengers leave their seats to meet other know passengers to engage in long standing discussions. If you feel disturbed by their discussion, simply tell them directly that you will like to sleep or you are working, they will either stop immediately or lower their voice drastically.

Noise 

Noise is never welcome; whether from your computer as you type, as you watch a movie, or from your earphones as you listen to music. Sometimes you can hear everything that comes out of your neighbor’s earphones; just let them know without causing a stir or acts of irritation.

Air Hostesses

At times flight attendants do forget your earlier request, may be due to pressure or other reasons. Call the flight attendant again, point out that you are making the request a second time. If you feel you have been treated unfairly, call on the attention of the senior flight attendant and make a polite report, alternatively call on the attention of another air hostess to avoid any conflict.

Queues in Air

Finally, you have just had a long flight what’s wrong with being patient getting off the aircraft. For some reason some people are again in a hurry to get off the plane, they are impatient to wait for you to bring down your carry on, or check your seat for anything you may have forgotten. Take your time regardless of the unnecessary rush you see.

When you need to pass someone who has children or who is elderly who is taking their time to gather themselves together, a simple ‘excuse me’ or ‘thank you’ is all you require.

Have a pleasant flight on your next journey.

Bon voyage