The idea of etiquette was first used by the French since circa 1750. Etiquette has always been implied to be manners to be observed in a society or in any place of gathering. But with the advancements in technology, that definition has expanded to include many sub-categories, like netiquette, for instance.
Given today’s vast use of various technological advancements, etiquette cannot be restricted to a dinner or a conference. Observing a basic code of conduct is necessary whenever you are surrounded by a bunch of people, like in an aircraft, an experience that I wish to relate.
While flying back to Dubai, it was a time when a lot of people were wide awake and a significant few go to sleep. I was wide awake, watching a movie and having lunch, while the passenger behind me was apparently asleep. While sleeping, he awkwardly stretched his legs in a way that he was kicking and pushing on my seat forcefully. After repeatedly calling him, he did not seem to budge until I shook him! Given the force with which he was pushing on my seat, I would not call it an accident, but a conscious action on his part.
While at school, no one really talks about etiquette apart from chewing with your mouth closed, not talking with food in your mouth, keeping your elbows off the table while eating, washing your hands after going to the restroom, saying ‘excuse me’ if you bump into someone – it is essential to realise that there is a proper code of conduct you’ve got to follow wherever you are, so that no one gets annoyed with your presence.
Going back to my above mentioned experience, when you’re flying with many other people, especially when it is a flight that lasts around 16 hours, it is highly imperative to be concerned about your co-passengers’ comfort while making yourself comfortable. Try not to speak or laugh loudly. Stretch if you want, but not in a way that you’re kicking the seat in front you. Be within the space assigned to you. Comply with the instructions of the cabin crew and don’t try to be a daredevil when you’re 35,000 feet above the ground. Stow away your luggage properly so that it does not fall on whoever opens the door of your overhead compartment. There may be others, but if you don’t have enough patience to be extra polite, then at least follow these. It’s not fun to deal with a co-passenger not following such basic manners.
- The reader is a student based in Los Angeles, US.
