Is It Permissible to Adjust the Backrest on an Aircraft?
Airplane etiquette can be a testy topic, and reclining your seat is no exception. In the latest edition of REAL SIMPLE's "Minor Issues, Major Opinions," we asked our readers to weigh in on the age-old question: is it ever okay to lean your seat back on a plane? Here's what they had to say:
The Great Debate
Overall, 62% of respondents think it's acceptable to recline your seat, but opinions vary. Some argue that reclining is a luxurious perk for those who paid for the seat, while others see it as a selfish move that impinges on their neighbor's comfort. Here's a look at both sides of the story:
The No Recline Club
@kellyannelongportnj2 sums up the anti-recline argument by saying, "That little bit of space doesn't help me." She's not alone. Many commenters feel that reclining is a birthright only for those in need of extra circulation, like at the dentist's office or after a heated game of basketball.
For @catherinecrowley96, the solution is simple: "Airlines need to get rid of that option. No good comes of it." @akwilliams918 agrees, saying, "Why is it that people recline like it's their birthright?"
Recline Revengers
On the pro-recline side, @launicafinita encourages others to lean back if they feel the need, stating, "Live and let others live as well." @debijenkins gives it a more straightforward interpretation: "I paid for the seat. I can use the functions attached to it."
@peacedog2020 takes a philosophical stance, saying, "Everyone should recline! Then we're all even."
Experts Weigh In
Airline and travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt offers a straightforward solution: "Just don't be a jerk about it." He highlights that planes are shared spaces that require consideration from all passengers. Etiquette expert Elaine Swann, who also served as a flight attendant, agrees. Her advice is to check if the person behind you has a drink or laptop on their tray table before reclining, give them a heads-up, recline slowly, and move the seat forward during meal service.
If you're in search of extra legroom, consider booking an exit row seat or upgrading to a seat with extra legroom. To maximize space, book early and choose a seat closer to the front of the plane, as planes can become skinnier toward the back, reducing lateral legroom.
So there you have it! The verdict is in: you're entitled to recline your seat on a plane, but do so thoughtfully to maintain a peaceful flight for all.
- Some readers of REAL SIMPLE argue that reclining one's seat on an airplane is a selfish move that impinges on a neighbor's comfort, as suggested by @catherinecrowley96 and @akwilliams918.
- On the other hand, some readers believe that reclining is a luxurious perk for those who paid for the seat, as expressed by @launicafinita and @debijenkins.
- According to airline and travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt, passengers should show consideration toward each other and avoid being a jerk when reclining their seats, while etiquette expert Elaine Swann emphasizes the importance of being mindful of one's neighbors, such as checking if the person behind has a drink or laptop on their tray table before reclining.
- If maintaining enough space remains a concern for travelers, they can consider booking an exit row seat or upgrading to a seat with extra legroom, as planes can become skinnier toward the back, reducing lateral legroom, according to the article in the latest edition of REAL SIMPLE.
