- Some say leaning back on economics is rude, but Sophie Foster disagrees
- Flight attendants will side with those with the seat reclined, he says.
- Do you think reclining is right or totally wrong? Take our survey below…
- READ MORE: Would you urinate in a hotel pool? Mom confesses yes.
Millions of tourists will travel abroad this summer and, as with every getaway season, a big gap will open up.
On the one hand, those who think that reclining your airplane seat is a sin is the province of entitled people who don’t care about the comfort of those around them. On the other hand? Those who think it is a right they can exercise.
Every peak tourist season there are arguments on
But I have to admit that I use that little button to creak the back of my economy seat a few inches every time I fly.
Because? Well, because I see it as part of the package, and with so little luxury in many economy class cabins, frankly it’s something I’m going to take advantage of.
Sophie Foster (above) says she makes the backrest of her economy seat creak a few inches every time she flies
By booking most economy seats, you’ve paid for a place to sit, a tray table, a seat belt, transportation, and, yes, the ability to recline a little so you can relax, take a nap, or even just relieve the pressure. Get your butt off so it doesn’t go completely numb while you hurtle through the sky in a can.
In many cases, everything else costs extra: from luggage to carry-on luggage, food, drinks and even headphones. So why wouldn’t you enjoy the last bit of luxury an airline offers to those occupying the cheapest seats?
I certainly will, because I want to and have paid for it.
And I’ll never begrudge the person in front of me if they want to recline a little while in cattle class (in business class or premium economy class, problems related to lounging dissipate, because everyone gets a large portion of cabin space ).
I will simply lean back in turn and take back my space from those behind me.
“There are a few times during the flight when I always shake my seat upright (I’m not a total monster),” Sophie writes, “during takeoff and landing (as these are a requirement) and at mealtimes. Above – stock image
Let me guess, you’re grumbling and clenching your fists asking “what about those of us who are tall or need extra space?”
Well, frankly, talk to the airline that made the seats so cramped.
Human beings are getting bigger and seats are getting smaller, and if this is something that negatively affects so many people, why don’t those who complain take action, publish letters, and criticize CEOs until something changes?
Alternatively, book the exit row or seats with extra legroom on the bulkhead.
If you’re 6ft 7in, like a friend of mine, you can even ask a crew member at the gate and when they look at you, from several feet down, they’ll often move you to a roomier seat for free if one is available.
I should note that there are a few times during the flight when I always put my seat upright (I’m not a total monster): during takeoff and landing (as they are a requirement) and during food. times.
Preventing someone from dining on delicious extra-salty tomato paste and a dry bun is something I would never do, in part because it would annoy the crew.
But they will be on your side if your reclining provokes an argument at any other time.
Still not convinced that you should recline to regain some space?
You never know, it might relieve some of the stress you’re obviously feeling.