Is it permissible to take off one's shoes on an airplane: experts explain the etiquette rules

Traveling by airplane places increased demands on passengers' mutual courtesy and respect for each other's boundaries. You find yourself in a confined space for an extended period without the ability to change the situation, seek privacy, or make frequent stops. This is why it's crucial to adhere to etiquette rules while onboard an airplane.

OBOZREVATEL guides how to behave in the cabin of an airplane and how to be a considerate passenger. Here are the main points:

Can you take off your shoes on board?

During a long flight, passengers may experience swollen feet, making them want to take off their shoes. Etiquette experts suggest that it's acceptable to do so if you are wearing socks. It is impolite to display bare feet. Therefore, if you anticipate wanting to remove your shoes, make sure to bring a pair of socks with you onboard.

How to recline the seat correctly?

Reclining your seat may make your flight more comfortable, but it can be bothersome for the passenger seated behind you. This is especially true if the person behind you has been using the tray table in the back of the seat to hold a device or beverage, for example. Always check first whether the person behind you is using the tray table, and ask if they mind your reclining your seat. During meal service, make sure to return your seat to an upright position.

How to handle a child kicking your seat from behind?

Many people find this situation quite frustrating, and parents traveling with young children experience considerable stress during flights for the same reason. If you happen to be seated in front of a child, try to remain calm and polite. Politely turn to the adult accompanying the child and request their intervention to prevent the child from kicking her seat. Avoid addressing the child directly, as this might be perceived as aggression and escalate the situation unnecessarily.

Can you apply makeup or groom yourself onboard?

You can certainly do so as long as your actions don't disturb fellow passengers. Applying a facial mask, using eye patches, or touching up your eyelashes before takeoff is unlikely to bother others. However, spraying any substances, applying perfume, or making exaggerated movements while styling your hair, for instance, crosses into other passengers' boundaries, which is considered impolite and contrary to etiquette.

Can you watch movies or listen to music without headphones during the flight?

Absolutely not. Playing movies or music without headphones can disrupt other passengers' conversations or sleep and may also irritate them due to differing tastes. If you plan to enjoy entertainment during the flight, be sure to have headphones with you. This also applies to children.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you whether it is possible to eat and drink on public transport, according to etiquette.

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