The Skies Are Crowded — Yet Courtesy Still Fits in Your Carry-On

Cabin Crew assisting passengers

Flying today is faster, more affordable, and more crowded than ever before — which is great for connectivity but not so great for courtesy. Somewhere between online check-ins and cramped cabins, we seem to have left our manners at the gate. The result? A rush to board, a scramble to de-board, and a general disregard for those around us — making what should be an exciting journey feel like a battle for space and patience. It does not have to be this way. With a little thoughtfulness, we can all make flying a better experience — for ourselves and everyone else.

Here is a gentle reminder of some basic (and much needed!) flying etiquette:

Do not Rush the Runway: Boarding and Deboarding Gracefully

We have all seen it: the minute boarding starts, passengers leap from their seats, cutting ahead of elderly travellers, parents wrangling kids, and anyone who dares move at a normal pace. And then, on landing, the same people jump up before the seatbelt sign is even off, shoving past seated passengers just to stand in a crowded aisle for 10 more minutes.

Pro tip: Wait your turn. Let the rows ahead clear. Smile at the parent struggling with a stroller or offer to help the senior with their bag. You will all reach the gate — no need to treat it like a race.

This Is not a Film Set: Be a Responsible Content Creator

Social media has brought out a new breed of flyers who think every flight is a live broadcast. Selfie sticks in the aisle, loud narrations to the camera, blocking seats and overhead bins for the perfect shot — it is entertaining for them, but annoying for everyone else. 

Pro tip: Take your photos and videos quickly and quietly. Respect others’ privacy. A flight is not a private stage — do not turn it into one.

Stay in Your Lane: Respect Personal Space

One of the worst in-flight habits — especially for women — is how some passengers sprawl into others’ seats. Elbows hogging both armrests, knees angled wide into the next seat, bags halfway into your legroom.

Pro tip: Keep your arms, legs, and belongings within your space. The middle seat gets first dibs on the shared armrests (they have it tough already!). And no, “manspreading” is not cute at 30,000 feet.

The Lavatory Leap: Just Ask!

Whether in economy or business class, some passengers think nothing of climbing over you to dash to the restroom — sometimes even stepping on you in the process.

Pro tip: Do not just vault over someone. Make eye contact, say “excuse me,” and wait for them to let you out. Courtesy takes two seconds.

Kindness in the Cabin: Why It Matters

Flying can be stressful — for everyone. Delays, cramped seats, jet lag, and turbulence all add up. But a little kindness and patience can ease the journey and even make it pleasant. 

Quick reminders for a smoother flight:

• Queue properly — do not cut in line.

• Offer help when you see someone struggling.

• Use headphones and keep your noise level down.

• Be polite to the cabin crew — they are not your servants; they are your safety team.

• Stay aware of how your actions affect those around you.

Good Passengers Make Good Flights

Flying is more than just getting from A to B. It is about sharing a space — and an experience — with strangers. A little patience, a little empathy, and a little less self-centeredness can go a long way toward making everyone’s journey better. So next time you are tempted to push ahead, sprawl out, or film your in-flight “haul,” ask yourself: would I appreciate it if someone did this to me? Let us make the skies friendlier — one good passenger at a time. 

Happy travels — and remember good manners fly high!