Sherman's Travel

If it’s not the guy showered in cologne in seat 33D, the lady airing out her bare feet in seat 31A, or the child eating a tuna sandwich in seat 32D, it’s something. Sadly, my etiquette expectations are low when surrounded by rows of strangers at 37,000 feet. I know classy flying departed with the Jet Age, but can’t we hold on to part – even a smidgen – of Pan Am glam?

Just because airlines no longer serve steak frites and sautéed vegetables accompanied by free-flowing goblets of Malbec in economy class doesn’t mean that we should resort to wearing Crocs and velour tracksuits, stuff three bags, a coat, and duty-free purchases into the overhead bin, and recline our seat at jet speed in an act of defiance. At least North American airlines haven’t hinted at charging for trips to the bathroom like Ireland-based budget airline Ryanair.

Instead, let’s focus on the positive. We can circumnavigate the world in hours, we can drink a plastic cup of Coke, we can apply complimentary lotion in Cathay Pacific’s lavatories, and together, we can channel our inner Emily Post with this air travel etiquette. Read more