A Flight Attendant’s Secret Trick to Get Passengers to Swap Seats
Seat-swapping etiquette on airplanes has always been a controversial topic. While some travellers firmly believe that if they have paid for a specific seat, no one should ask them to switch, others are more understanding and willing to accommodate requests based on certain circumstances.
The Diplomatic Solution
Mitra Amirzadeh, a seasoned flight attendant based in Orlando, has a proven strategy for persuading passengers who are reluctant to give up their seats, especially when young children are involved in the mix. Mitra revealed to the Wall Street Journal that she employs her diplomatic skills to resolve seat-swapping conflicts. In situations where parents are struggling to secure seats together for their children, Mitra intervenes by appealing to the passenger’s sense of empathy. She cleverly points out the necessities that children might require during the flight, like snacks or coloring books, which usually convinces the passenger to make the swap.
Emphasis on Children
However, Mitra emphasized that she prefers not to interfere in disputes over seat allocations that do not involve children. She firmly believes that passengers who have paid for their chosen seats should not feel obligated to switch simply because someone else requests it.
Reminder for Passengers
She further advises passengers to reevaluate their frustrations about seat arrangements by reminding them that the seat selection process typically comes with an additional fee. This gentle reminder often helps passengers adjust their perspective on seat preferences.
Common Occurrences
For Mitra and her crew, navigating seat-swapping disputes constitutes a significant portion of their monthly flights. Reports suggest that approximately 80% of her flights involve some form of seating disagreement among passengers.
Premium Seat Etiquette
Former Virgin American flight attendant, Bobby Laurie, shed light on the importance of understanding the dynamics of seat distribution onboard planes. Some rows are designated as premium or preferred seating, requiring specific arrangements for weight and balance considerations. Passengers may be tempted to switch seats upon spotting an empty row, but it’s crucial to respect designated premium seats to avoid inconvenience or potential re-seating by the crew.
Smooth Airplane Exit Etiquette
Lastly, for a seamless airplane departure experience, passengers are advised to adhere to proper exit etiquette:
1. Resist the urge to jump up from your seat once the plane lands.
2. Avoid rushing ahead of other passengers.
3. Wait patiently for your turn to disembark.
4. Refrain from using your backpack or carry-on luggage aggressively.
5. Refrain from speaking loudly on your phone.
6. Always prioritize politeness and courtesy towards fellow passengers.
By following these simple guidelines, passengers can contribute to a more harmonious and pleasant travel experience for everyone aboard.