Unwritten Rules of Flying

Everyone knows the official rules of flying, no liquids over 100 milliliters, one carry-on one purse, take your laptop out of your bag at security, and so on. But there are also many unwritten rules of flying, and as any frequent flyer could tell you- these are imperative for an enjoyable flight for everyone

The first “rule” is when boarding. With limited overhead space, boarding zones are now more important to people than they used to be. Although we’re all anxious to get on the flight, do not crowd the gate entrance because you’re waiting for your zone to called- wait until your zone is called to stand up. Give everyone their space and boarding will go a lot faster.

And if your travel companion has an earlier zone that you- either go separately or together in your later zone. Do not attempt to accompany them through earlier than you’re supposed to, as you may not be let through and this slows down boarding for everyone.

Once you’re on the plane, be conscious of the person in the middle seat- they always get both arm rests! No one wants to be stuck in the middle, but the one perk is that they deserve the arm rests. Similarly, the person in the window seat gets control over the window blind, and the aisle seat always get up for their inner seatmates who have to use the washroom.

And if you really want to switch seats with someone, maybe to sit beside your friend who got stuck a few rows back, it is acceptable to ask, but only if the seat you’re offering up is equal to or better than theirs. Don’t ask someone in economy plus to switch for your middle seat in the last row- that puts them in an awkward position as they paid more for that seat.

Possibly the most important unwritten rule is… use headphones! This is more common with young kids, who may play their cartoons or a video game on full volume. As the parent, or as an adult doing this yourself, be considerate of those around you and plug in the headphones.

Overall, look out for the signs from people around if you if you’re not sure if you’re breaking a frequent flyer rule. If your neighbour has their headphones in- maybe don’t keep trying to talk to them. If they’re trying to sleep and you’ve got the window fully open, maybe lower it half way!

Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, as long as you’re considerate of those around you, you shouldn’t be breaking any unspoken rules.