Travel Etiquette: The Inescapable Conflict Between Airplane Seats and Elbows
In the confined quarters of an aircraft, even the smallest of disturbances can feel magnified. Such is the case for many passengers who find themselves in the middle seat, a notorious spot for discomfort and inconvenience.
Recently, a writer found themselves in this predicament, their seat preference typically the window seat, but fate had other plans. As they boarded their flight, they made a conscious effort to stay within their seat boundaries, aware of the limited space and the potential for discomfort.
However, the peace was short-lived. Repeated elbow jabs from their seatmate became an unwelcome companion, especially during attempts to sleep. The writer, ever mindful of not causing a scene or risking being removed from the flight, sought a diplomatic solution.
The writer's search for an elegant, quippy way to handle the situation without calling a flight attendant led them to the advice given by Miss Manners in 2004. The etiquette expert suggested responding to accidental bumps with notable vulnerability, a smile, and a gentle acknowledgement of the contact.
Yet, the repeated nudging was becoming unbearable. The writer, who is not a snorer, found solace in the fact that the annoyance was the same regardless of the seat they were in. The middle seat, with its inherent lack of space, seemed to exacerbate the issue, making it feel more injurious.
In the end, the writer found a balance between maintaining their composure and asserting their personal space. They hope that their experience serves as a reminder to fellow passengers to be considerate of their seatmates, especially in the cramped conditions of air travel. After all, a little understanding can go a long way in making a flight more enjoyable for everyone.
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