At the Seniors Discount Club, we love a good holiday as much as the next person. But with long-haul flights becoming increasingly uncomfortable, we all dream of that perfect day when we can finally afford to fly first class. In the meantime, attempting to get some rest on a crowded flight, we're all tempted to succumb to the allure of reclining our seats.

But hold on a moment; you may be unwittingly committing a major faux pas. Etiquette experts say that reclining your airline seat can be considered the height of bad manners, particularly in cramped economy class.

Experts strongly advise against reclining your seats on economy flights, as it is widely considered inconsiderate and potentially detrimental to the person sitting behind you. Photo by Kelly.

'Unless you were sitting in a seat with extra legroom, or in first class, it would be inconsiderate to recline your seat,' says etiquette aficionada Diane Gottsman.

Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and podcast host, goes further: 'You should never recline your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop. Nobody likes their laptop snapped in half.' Travel writer Tarah Chieffi shares her experience of this happening on a flight, saying, 'I didn't know it was physically possible for this to happen.'

Another etiquette expert, Rosalinda Oropeza Randall, advises against reclining when the majority of passengers are enjoying a snack or meal. Sudden reclining could result in spilled food or drink, potentially harming the person sitting behind you.

In order to avoid such disasters, experts suggest you politely ask the person behind you if it's okay to recline your seat or, at the very least, check what they're doing. Christopher Elliot, a consumer advocate and journalist, believes you should never recline your seat if the passenger behind you is taller than average, injured, or disabled.

Elliot warns that a fully reclined seat could cause injury to vulnerable passengers. Moreover, Elliot says putting your seat back when children are behind you is also not ideal, as they might accidentally put their fingers between the seats and end up getting hurt.

However, there are circumstances where reclining your seat is acceptable, such as on a red-eye flight or if you have certain ailments, like a bad back.

If you find yourself dealing with a reclining neighbour on a flight, Elliot recommends a few steps to handle the situation:

1. Move to another seat if one is available.
2. Try persuading someone to switch seats with you.
3. Politely ask the person in front of you to lift their chair up, as they might be willing to compromise.
4. If all else fails, call a flight attendant for help, who might be able to negotiate with the passenger on your behalf.

Best Practices For Maintaining Comfort During A Flight​

While our primary focus is often on finding discounts and deals for our members, we also strive to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of best practices for maintaining your comfort during a flight, without causing any discomfort to your fellow passengers.

1. Dress appropriately: Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics. This not only makes it easier to settle into your seat for the long haul but also helps prevent irritation or chafing during the flight.
2. Carry essential items in your personal bag: Keep a small, well-organised personal bag with you that includes items such as earplugs, eye masks, neck pillows, snacks, medication, and any necessary chargers. This will allow you to access comfort essentials without disturbing the passengers around you or causing any unnecessary interruptions.
3. Hydration is key: Flying can cause dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of stiffness and discomfort. Ensure you drink water regularly throughout the flight and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol intake to keep your body in peak condition and make your travel experience as pleasant as possible.
4. Practise mindful posture: When settling into your economy-class seat, try to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position for your body. Consider simple stretches and exercises that can be done without affecting those around you, and remember to change positions frequently.
5. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Utilising breathing exercises and mindful relaxation techniques can not only help you remain calm during the flight but also minimise the effect of any discomfort caused by limited legroom or reclining neighbours.

Key Takeaways

• Etiquette experts advise against reclining your airline seat all the way back, as it can be inconsiderate and potentially harmful to the person sat behind you.
  
• Experts suggest not reclining your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop, as it may damage the device.
  
• Passengers should avoid reclining when others are enjoying a snack or meal, as it could result in spilled food or hot drinks.
• To avoid issues, experts recommend asking the person behind you if you can recline your seat or checking what they are doing first.

By incorporating these expert tips and practising thoughtfulness during your flights, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for yourself and fellow passengers. Safe travels, friends!

Members, we’d love to know where you stand (or, rather - sit!) on the chair reclining debate. Do you recline on flights or not? Let us know in the comments!

 

[Thecheesequeen]

We’ve had this discussion before. Plane seats are made to recline for comfort, and I will recline my seat except during the lunch service. I always check behind before I do.

 

[Pommyoz]

Personally, I don't recline. It is uncomfortable for me.
And I dislike the person who merrily reclines in full action while I eat, and other times do not check with me if it's ok. A bit of give and take is all required.
p.s. flying next year in March in case anyone else is haha!!!

 

[grazza1955]

Maybe its time for airlines to disable the recline function on all domestic flight planes, problem solved

 

[Jest]

At the Seniors Discount Club, we love a good holiday as much as the next person. But with long-haul flights becoming increasingly uncomfortable, we all dream of that perfect day when we can finally afford to fly first class. In the meantime, attempting to get some rest on a crowded flight, we're all tempted to succumb to the allure of reclining our seats.

But hold on a moment; you may be unwittingly committing a major faux pas. Etiquette experts say that reclining your airline seat can be considered the height of bad manners, particularly in cramped economy class.

View attachment 21525

Experts strongly advise against reclining your seats on economy flights, as it is widely considered inconsiderate and potentially detrimental to the person sitting behind you. Photo by Kelly.

'Unless you were sitting in a seat with extra legroom, or in first class, it would be inconsiderate to recline your seat,' says etiquette aficionada Diane Gottsman.

Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and podcast host, goes further: 'You should never recline your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop. Nobody likes their laptop snapped in half.' Travel writer Tarah Chieffi shares her experience of this happening on a flight, saying, 'I didn't know it was physically possible for this to happen.'

Another etiquette expert, Rosalinda Oropeza Randall, advises against reclining when the majority of passengers are enjoying a snack or meal. Sudden reclining could result in spilled food or drink, potentially harming the person sitting behind you.

In order to avoid such disasters, experts suggest you politely ask the person behind you if it's okay to recline your seat or, at the very least, check what they're doing. Christopher Elliot, a consumer advocate and journalist, believes you should never recline your seat if the passenger behind you is taller than average, injured, or disabled.

Elliot warns that a fully reclined seat could cause injury to vulnerable passengers. Moreover, Elliot says putting your seat back when children are behind you is also not ideal, as they might accidentally put their fingers between the seats and end up getting hurt.

However, there are circumstances where reclining your seat is acceptable, such as on a red-eye flight or if you have certain ailments, like a bad back.

If you find yourself dealing with a reclining neighbour on a flight, Elliot recommends a few steps to handle the situation:

1. Move to another seat if one is available.
2. Try persuading someone to switch seats with you.
3. Politely ask the person in front of you to lift their chair up, as they might be willing to compromise.
4. If all else fails, call a flight attendant for help, who might be able to negotiate with the passenger on your behalf.

Best Practices For Maintaining Comfort During A Flight​

While our primary focus is often on finding discounts and deals for our members, we also strive to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of best practices for maintaining your comfort during a flight, without causing any discomfort to your fellow passengers.

1. Dress appropriately: Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics. This not only makes it easier to settle into your seat for the long haul but also helps prevent irritation or chafing during the flight.
2. Carry essential items in your personal bag: Keep a small, well-organised personal bag with you that includes items such as earplugs, eye masks, neck pillows, snacks, medication, and any necessary chargers. This will allow you to access comfort essentials without disturbing the passengers around you or causing any unnecessary interruptions.
3. Hydration is key: Flying can cause dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of stiffness and discomfort. Ensure you drink water regularly throughout the flight and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol intake to keep your body in peak condition and make your travel experience as pleasant as possible.
4. Practise mindful posture: When settling into your economy-class seat, try to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position for your body. Consider simple stretches and exercises that can be done without affecting those around you, and remember to change positions frequently.
5. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Utilising breathing exercises and mindful relaxation techniques can not only help you remain calm during the flight but also minimise the effect of any discomfort caused by limited legroom or reclining neighbours.

Key Takeaways

• Etiquette experts advise against reclining your airline seat all the way back, as it can be inconsiderate and potentially harmful to the person sat behind you.
• Experts suggest not reclining your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop, as it may damage the device.
• Passengers should avoid reclining when others are enjoying a snack or meal, as it could result in spilled food or hot drinks.
• To avoid issues, experts recommend asking the person behind you if you can recline your seat or checking what they are doing first.

By incorporating these expert tips and practising thoughtfulness during your flights, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for yourself and fellow passengers. Safe travels, friends!

Members, we’d love to know where you stand (or, rather - sit!) on the chair reclining debate. Do you recline on flights or not? Let us know in the comments!

if they put reclining seats that meaNS THEY ARE THERE TO BE RECLINED. there is a time for reclining if you are well mannered. I do wish to know why airlines put in seaTS THAT ARE POTENTIALLY HARMFUL. suing rings loud in my head.. and just great if everyone is breathing out at the same time. YUK. love it all seats should be free that way no one will be upset. i would still get the ignorant one behind me.

 

[Lynjw]

At the Seniors Discount Club, we love a good holiday as much as the next person. But with long-haul flights becoming increasingly uncomfortable, we all dream of that perfect day when we can finally afford to fly first class. In the meantime, attempting to get some rest on a crowded flight, we're all tempted to succumb to the allure of reclining our seats.

But hold on a moment; you may be unwittingly committing a major faux pas. Etiquette experts say that reclining your airline seat can be considered the height of bad manners, particularly in cramped economy class.

View attachment 21525

Experts strongly advise against reclining your seats on economy flights, as it is widely considered inconsiderate and potentially detrimental to the person sitting behind you. Photo by Kelly.

'Unless you were sitting in a seat with extra legroom, or in first class, it would be inconsiderate to recline your seat,' says etiquette aficionada Diane Gottsman.

Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and podcast host, goes further: 'You should never recline your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop. Nobody likes their laptop snapped in half.' Travel writer Tarah Chieffi shares her experience of this happening on a flight, saying, 'I didn't know it was physically possible for this to happen.'

Another etiquette expert, Rosalinda Oropeza Randall, advises against reclining when the majority of passengers are enjoying a snack or meal. Sudden reclining could result in spilled food or drink, potentially harming the person sitting behind you.

In order to avoid such disasters, experts suggest you politely ask the person behind you if it's okay to recline your seat or, at the very least, check what they're doing. Christopher Elliot, a consumer advocate and journalist, believes you should never recline your seat if the passenger behind you is taller than average, injured, or disabled.

Elliot warns that a fully reclined seat could cause injury to vulnerable passengers. Moreover, Elliot says putting your seat back when children are behind you is also not ideal, as they might accidentally put their fingers between the seats and end up getting hurt.

However, there are circumstances where reclining your seat is acceptable, such as on a red-eye flight or if you have certain ailments, like a bad back.

If you find yourself dealing with a reclining neighbour on a flight, Elliot recommends a few steps to handle the situation:

1. Move to another seat if one is available.
2. Try persuading someone to switch seats with you.
3. Politely ask the person in front of you to lift their chair up, as they might be willing to compromise.
4. If all else fails, call a flight attendant for help, who might be able to negotiate with the passenger on your behalf.

Best Practices For Maintaining Comfort During A Flight​

While our primary focus is often on finding discounts and deals for our members, we also strive to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of best practices for maintaining your comfort during a flight, without causing any discomfort to your fellow passengers.

1. Dress appropriately: Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics. This not only makes it easier to settle into your seat for the long haul but also helps prevent irritation or chafing during the flight.
2. Carry essential items in your personal bag: Keep a small, well-organised personal bag with you that includes items such as earplugs, eye masks, neck pillows, snacks, medication, and any necessary chargers. This will allow you to access comfort essentials without disturbing the passengers around you or causing any unnecessary interruptions.
3. Hydration is key: Flying can cause dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of stiffness and discomfort. Ensure you drink water regularly throughout the flight and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol intake to keep your body in peak condition and make your travel experience as pleasant as possible.
4. Practise mindful posture: When settling into your economy-class seat, try to find the most comfortable and ergonomic position for your body. Consider simple stretches and exercises that can be done without affecting those around you, and remember to change positions frequently.
5. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Utilising breathing exercises and mindful relaxation techniques can not only help you remain calm during the flight but also minimise the effect of any discomfort caused by limited legroom or reclining neighbours.

Key Takeaways

• Etiquette experts advise against reclining your airline seat all the way back, as it can be inconsiderate and potentially harmful to the person sat behind you.
• Experts suggest not reclining your seat if a passenger behind you is working on their laptop, as it may damage the device.
• Passengers should avoid reclining when others are enjoying a snack or meal, as it could result in spilled food or hot drinks.
• To avoid issues, experts recommend asking the person behind you if you can recline your seat or checking what they are doing first.

By incorporating these expert tips and practising thoughtfulness during your flights, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for yourself and fellow passengers. Safe travels, friends!

Members, we’d love to know where you stand (or, rather - sit!) on the chair reclining debate. Do you recline on flights or not? Let us know in the comments!

Why bother having reclining seats if it’s such bad manners. I can get not doing it what meal times but the rest…. Seriously.

 

[SGH]

I believe it is bad manners to recline on any flight under two hours.

 

[Mindygirl12022]

We’ve had this discussion before. Plane seats are made to recline for comfort, and I will recline my seat except during the lunch service. I always check behind before I do.

Exactly, the seats are designed to recline for our comfort during the flight. I wouldn't do that if there is a meal being served but otherwise I do, just not right back.