15 Types of People You Might End Up Sitting Next to on a Plane
For many, flying is just an adventure and isn’t solely the destination because everyone you run into on the way there is also considered part of the adventure. Since over 4 billion people fly yearly (source: IATA), it isn’t surprising that airplanes are a microcosm of different personalities.
Whether you commute from city to city in a rush to meetings or jet set from country to country in search of memories, what we know you have been through is a pick or two of interesting seatmates. Here are 15 passengers you may encounter between the chatty conversationalists and free-nappy snoozers.
The Chatty Cathy
With this extroverted seatmate, you know the plane won’t leave the ground before they start a conversation. They will want to know about your plans, your family, and what you do and hold onto the conversation throughout the flight. Whereas their cheeriness may lighten a lengthy haul, it may interrupt any peaceful time you anticipate.
If this is not a day when you feel like sitting down to chat, small, polite cues such as donning headphones or getting stuck into a book will help keep the boundaries in place.
The Snorer
Snorers are the unintended breakers of peace. On the plane, they threaten to fall into a deep sleep, or they might fall into one anyway, accompanied by loud, rhythmic snores, whether the plane is ascending or lying on the tarmac. The envy they might inspire might be a problem for the rest of the passengers.
Acquaintances know that a frequent flyer’s best friend when confronted by this passenger is noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
The First-Time Flyer
He is wide-eyed and fascinated by everything; the first-time flyer is endearing and often innocently oblivious to airplane etiquette. Their awe at flying can be a reminder of the magic of air travel, and they may fumble with seatbelts or worry about turbulence, but they know they are high up, which is thrilling.
Their experience can be smoother and more enjoyable for you as well. Simply commenting, reassuringly, or with friendly advice.
The Aisle Hog
This passenger is always in constant motion, stopping at any time to stretch their legs, use the bathroom, or flip through their carry-on. While they benefit from their easy aisle access, their movements may disturb your work or rest during the flight. If there is a mutual understanding about timing, interruptions can be minimized.
The Overpacker
They can be seen attempting to cram their oversized carry-on into the overhead bin, to the perpetual annoyance of everyone else. Their belongings frequently spill into the side armrest or, at the very least, infringe on much-needed legroom. If it becomes such a point of space, then think about asking the cabin crew to help rearrange storage.
The Tech Junkie
The tech junkie is in front of the digital world with a tablet, laptop, or gaming device in hand. Those who use Wi-Fi in flight very often likely won’t notice anything more than their screens.
Sometimes, the glow of their gadgets or the sound of a message notification can be distracting, so do not hesitate to politely ask them to dim the brightness or turn off the gadget’s sound.
The Bookworm
Bookworms never let their noses out of a novel or Kindle, so they make quiet travel companions. Mostly engrossed in their reading material, they only look up politely to nod when drink service is offered or if they ask for book recommendations. Even better, they may not disappoint with their knowledge of literature.
The Parent with Kids
Traveling with children on crowded airplanes is no easy task. Restless toddlers or crying infants clamor while these parents try to minimize disruptions. Noisy children may try your patience, but showing understanding or entertaining a curious toddler (if you’re so inclined to do so) will win you goodwill.
The Foodie
The foodie seatmate has an enviable stash of snacks in case she gets the mid-flight hunger pangs. Their selection often outshines airline meals, from homemade sandwiches to exotic trail mixes.
However, they quickly fill the cabin space with intense aromas, so prepare yourself for overpowering smells if they opt for pungent culinary choices.
The Sleeper
The sleeper deals with turbulence or cramped legroom without even blinking. They sleep even before you’re done reading the safety card; they need no sleeping mask or cushion. According to their tranquility, they may innocently knock you over or lock you out of the bathroom.
The Business Tycoon
This passenger is glued to their laptop, impeccably dressed, and all business. It could be the solo traveler writing frantically to meet her nightly quota of report submissions and email responses with her head down the entire time.
The business tycoon is usually a model, respectful, and self-contained seatmate, except when their workspace flows onto shared surfaces.
The Nervous Nelly
During takeoff, this passenger tightens the grip on the armrest while wincing at each bump of the tiniest turbulence. Nervous flyers often require reassurance and appreciate a calming presence. A kind word or a distraction, such as an in-flight magazine, can soothe their jitters.
The Superstitious Traveler
Whether whispering a prayer or adhering to rituals, the superstitious traveler has their own means of dealing with flight anxieties. During takeoff and landing, they may avoid eye contact or become wary. The patience and understanding displayed by both parties help create a mutually respectful environment.
The “Don’t Talk to Me” Person
This traveler has headphones on, a hoodie drawn, and eyes shot to the screen; this traveler has mastered the art of not interacting. Gosh, no, they’re not rude. They have no tenderness and have just availed themselves of a good excuse for some uninterrupted alone time. Honor their signals, and don’t get pulled to start a conversation unless necessary.
The Flight Attendant in Disguise
You know this seasoned traveler, in particular, knows everything: how to get the best seat, the meal options, and what outlets are. They are an excellent source of travel wisdom; if you start a conversation, they can be of inestimable value. However, they may bully you and express their travel tricks and tips.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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