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Air travel, with its breathtaking views and vast global connectivity, has become an integral part of our lives. However, navigating the bustling airports smoothly requires a certain level of etiquette.
When flying to your destination, remember that you're not the only traveller—numerous fellow passengers share the space. It's your responsibility to ensure your actions don't inconvenience them or disrupt the airport's smooth operation.
So, whether you are a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, here's a guide to Flying Etiquette 101. Read it over to know the do's and don'ts of flying etiquettes for a mindful flying experience in the skies. Here you go!
List of Do’s for Airport Passengers:
Getting to the airport with plenty of time is a wise move. It helps you sail through security, check-in, and any unexpected hiccups. Flyers who arrive late are typically in a rush. They are breaking queues, running in panic, and pushing other passengers to get on the plane in time.
This behaviour disrupts the start of the journey for them and their fellow passengers. Therefore, international travellers are recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their flight, while domestic travellers should aim for 2 hours in advance. This ensures a smooth and stress-free start to their trip.
Make security a breeze by having your documents ready to roll. Those who haven’t travelled via air before should take out their jackets, liquids, shoes, pocket contents, and electronic devices before arriving at the security so they can make the process quick and easy for themselves and other passengers.
On the other side of the screening, pick your stuff and get out of the way before putting things back on. This little trick makes life easier for everyone waiting for their turn.
Patience is a virtue, especially in lines. Whether you are at check-in, security, or waiting to board, wait your turn. While waiting in line might not be the best part of travel, respecting queues ensures an order. By waiting your turn, you contribute not only to your own stress-free experience but also to the harmony of the airport environment. Nobody likes a queue-jumping surprise.
You can also skip the check-in queue with DigiYatra. At the same time, the wait-time tracker informs you about your turn and on-ground traffic in real time. These are convenient ways to save time and avoid queues.
Keep it down a notch. Your chats and phone calls are great, but not everyone wants to join the conversation. Be considerate of the noise level and speak softly.
If you decide to watch a movie or listen to music while waiting for your flight, that is great as long as you keep it to yourself. People near you can be trying to get some rest, the noise could disturb their peace. Using headphones to ensure the passengers near you don’t have to succumb to the ways you choose to pass your time.
Another important etiquette rule for travellers is to adhere to the regulations regarding weight limits and bag sizes. These limits and sizes aren't mere guidelines; they are the key to maintaining order and efficiency. By adhering to these rules, you not only contribute to a well-organised system but also play a crucial role in preventing frustrating delays.
If everyone exceeded the weight limit or carried oversized bags, chaos would likely ensue, leading to time-consuming checks and potential disruptions. Following luggage rules ensures a smooth and timely process, allowing you and your fellow travellers to embark on your journeys without unnecessary hassles.
Self Baggage Drop facility at Delhi Airport is an easy way to tackle your luggage. It is a simple two-step process. First, you can generate your boarding passes and baggage tags at the self-check-in kiosk. Then, you can attach the baggage tag to your luggage, saving plenty of time.
Pro-tip: If you are carrying more than allowed luggage, instead of holding the line and arguing with the airline about paying extra luggage charges, use Excess Baggage Delivery Service at Delhi Airport.
Resist the urge to transform the waiting room into your personal office space. Loud meetings in heavily populated waiting areas can disrupt the peace and concentration of others. Instead, consider taking your meetings to a quieter, designated space to ensure a more considerate environment for everyone sharing the waiting room.
It is about creating a harmonious atmosphere, allowing fellow travellers to enjoy a peaceful wait without being unintentional audience members of your work discussions. So, keep the volume down and save the waiting room for its intended purpose – a place for quiet anticipation.
List of Don'ts for airport passengers:
Respect personal space by avoiding overcrowding at boarding gates and baggage carousels. Creating a crowded environment not only diminishes the comfort of fellow travellers but also hinders the smooth flow of the boarding and baggage retrieval process.
By giving everyone some breathing room, you contribute to a more relaxed and efficient travel experience. So, resist the urge to turn these areas into crowded gatherings and let everyone navigate through their journey with ease and space to spare.
Maintaining top-notch hygiene within airport premises is crucial. Unpleasant smells and unruly habits, especially in confined spaces, are unacceptable. Due to the confined nature of airports, cleanliness and considerate personal hygiene are essential.
Being considerate of the well-being and comfort of all travellers is a fundamental aspect of travel etiquette. To ensure a pleasant environment for everyone sharing these close quarters, keeping the space clean and fresh is paramount.
A commitment to good hygiene practices not only enhances the overall experience but also contributes to a positive atmosphere throughout the airport.
Exercise caution with food choices in airport premises to maintain a pleasant environment. Strong-smelling or messy foods can disturb fellow passengers, impacting the shared spaces within the airport.
Opt for snacks that are considerate to the confined surroundings, avoiding odorous or spill-prone options. By being mindful of your food choices, you contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone in the airport, making the journey a positive experience from check-in to departure.
Avoid letting your children wander alone around the airport. Airports are bustling, vast spaces with various potential hazards. Unattended children may not only get lost but can also inadvertently disrupt the flow of foot traffic, leading to inconvenience for others.
By ensuring your children stay within close proximity, you not only prioritise their safety but also contribute to a better environment for all passengers. So, hold their hands, use strollers if needed, and navigate the airport together to make the journey stress-free for everyone.
Pro-tip: When travelling with little ones, use the baby room or children’s play area for a smooth travel experience for all.
Mastering the art of flying etiquette is not just about rules; it is a collective effort to make air travel a positive and considerate experience for everyone. By embracing travel etiquette do's and don'ts, you can contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable journey, fostering a culture of respect and courtesy in the skies. So, fasten your seatbelt, follow these guidelines, and soar towards your destination with a shared commitment to a more harmonious travel experience.
Safe travels!
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