I have been getting quite a few questions about flight etiquette. Because this one has come up the most, I will address it first. More in-flight answers will come soon. Who gets the middle armrests on a plane?
Dear flight passengers,
This is one of the issues that etiquette professionals do not always agree on. Based on consideration, respect, and kindness, these are my recommendations:
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If the row you are in has just two seats, the middle armrest is shared.
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If the two of you are not traveling together, it is perfectly acceptable to have a conversation about sharing the space or one claiming it for the flight.
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If the row has three seats, the two middle armrests are also shared.
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Some believe that the occupant of the middle seat should claim both of these due to having to settle for the middle seat. And that can be the case if the other seat occupants agree with this.
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The window seat occupant often has a bit more flexibility due to the wall/window being their unshared space. But the aisle seat occupant has a highway of consistent traffic to deal with. In order to keep their limbs safe, they may not get full use of their aisle armrest.
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Again, a conversation can be had if the middle seat occupant would like the use of one or both armrests.
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If there are more than three seats in a row, all middle seat armrests should be shared.
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In this situation, there are no window seats. You are either in an aisle or a middle seat and, as previously mentioned, the benefits of the aisle armrests are minimal.
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It is worth a brief mention to your seat neighbors if you need or do not need the armrests so that they can make necessary adjustments.
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Obviously, who uses the armrests can change throughout the flight. Especially on long flights, you should at least speak with the people in your row at some point about getting in and out of the row, accessing the overhead bins, and sharing space to include the armrests. This is a great opportunity to work on your interpersonal skills. You have the chance to think outside of yourself and allow the needs of other people to come first. When you do that, you may be surprised at how often you get what you want as well.
Also, keep in mind that when you are traveling, you are a guest of the airline. Do not put additional stress on your hosts to settle your minor disputes, as they have your safety and comfort to be most concerned with. If you do have disagreements that need intervention, please ask a flight attendant for assistance before you “take it outside,” which would be difficult while in the air. Remember that you and the other guests should be on your best behavior and use consideration and respect when handling issues that come up on the plane. Though your comfort is important, the ultimate goal is to get to your destination safely.
Happy flying!
Margar-etiquette
#LoveIsTheAnswer
