Seat Etiquette 101: A Masterclass in How Not to Fly

I’m currently on American Airlines flight 3322, and before we’ve even left the gate, I’ve already witnessed something that should be covered in every “So You’re Flying for the First Time” pamphlet.

The guy in seat 14A, directly in front of me, decided—before takeoff—to fully recline his seat.

Not a gentle lean.

Not a cautious test.

No hesitation whatsoever.

Just full send, like we were already cruising at 35,000 feet with drink service underway.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t advanced flying behavior. This is novice flyer energy.

For those new to air travel (or apparently seated in front of me today), here’s a quick refresher:

Takeoff = seat upright

Landing = seat upright

Taxiing = seat upright

Still on the ground = seat upright

Reclining before takeoff isn’t just bad etiquette—it’s a dead giveaway that you either:

Rarely fly

Don’t care about anyone behind you

Think airplane seats work like a La-Z-Boy in your living room

The worst part? The confidence. The sheer, unearned confidence of someone who has absolutely no idea what they’re doing.

Now I understand—air travel can be stressful. Seats are tight. Comfort is a myth sold by marketing departments. But there’s an unspoken social contract on planes: we all suffer equally.

You don’t get to skip ahead to “nap mode” while the rest of us are still waiting for the safety demo.

So here’s a friendly PSA from seat 14-something-behind-you:

If you’re going to fly, learn the basics.

If you’re going to recline, wait your turn.

And if you’re going to announce you’re a rookie flyer—apparently, 14A is the place to do it.

Fasten seatbelts.

Seats upright.

Common sense… optional, but encouraged.

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