Business Class

Is it just me, or does it seem that airline passengers check their bags—and their manners—at the counter?

On a recent trip to Los Angeles, I found that many people boarded before their assigned group numbers were called and they clustered around the boarding line, blocking other people’s access to it.

Once on the plane, the woman in the seat to my right wanted to engage in a lengthy conversation. The man in front of me completely reclined his seat for most of the 2,000-plus-mile trip.

What is the proper etiquette in these situations?

It’s best to remember that manners are about honesty and consideration: Be honest with the people you’re interacting with, while being considerate of their feelings.

I enjoyed a brief conversation with my neighbor and then politely let her know that I had some work that I needed to complete. I didn’t say anything to the man in the seat in front of me, but it definitely reminded me that it’s best to refrain from over-reclining my seat, as a courtesy to the person behind me.

After we landed, I witnessed more rudeness at baggage claim. People crowded the conveyor belt, pushing and shoving others to examine the suitcases rolling past.

If you have a black suitcase, affix a colorful identifier to it, such as a red ribbon or a neon name tag. That way, you can stand a few feet back from the belt until you recognize the luggage as yours.

Delta Airlines has created humorous, in-flight videos that are meant to help travelers be more courteous—by lowering the shades during a movie, refraining from using the restroom until the in-flight beverage service is completed, and avoiding committing other faux pas. Hopefully it will help more travelers keep their manners with them before, during and after their flights.

Do you have a question for Suzanne Willis about business etiquette? E-mail etiquette@gulfshorebusiness.com.