Air Travel Issues and How to Resolve Them
From time crunch and flight delays to waiting lines and cumbersome carry-on luggage, airplane travel can stress even the most nomadic traveler. It’s easy to let the hassle get the best of people, but knowing how to manage airline obstacles will help relieve the tension and get you to your destination with minimal stress. Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert, author, and the founder of Access to Culture, who is also a frequent international flyer, offers some advice on the most common air travel issues and how to resolve them.
Security Checkpoint
To minimize time spent at the security checkpoint, be prepared and travel light, minimizing obstacles to safe, smooth travel. Make the security checkpoint go by quickly by emptying pockets ahead of time, removing laptop from bags, and removing shoes and belts to not only make it faster for you, but for those behind you. Also make sure that all liquids are in the appropriately sized containers before heading to the airport. Remember to always be kind and respectful to others because everyone has a flight to catch too- not just you.
TSA Hold Up
While TSA screenings are an important safety measure, the long lines and extra time spent during bag searches and pat-downs can be a hassle. Remember that being compliant will get you on the plane faster. Answer any questions the officer may have and be willing to have your bags searched. Any reluctance to do so could cause suspicion and may take more of your time.
Overbooked Airplanes
Airlines often compensate passengers who volunteer to give up their seat by paying for all expenses such as hotel and meals, in addition to giving them a flight voucher. If you are in absolutely no rush to get to your destination, it may be something to consider. However, if you’re one of the ones chosen to give up your seat, but you have to be on that flight for other commitments, explain your situation and politely refuse, all while maintaining an amicable tone.
Overweight Baggage
If a crew member at the check-in desk tells you that your bag is overweight and you have to pay an extra fee, kindly ask if you can step aside to take some of your belongings out and place them in another bag or suitcase. Once they give you the okay, look behind you and signal to the next person in line that they can go. This proper airline etiquette will ensure you’re being conscious of others’ time.
Passenger Clash
If you have a small disagreement with another passenger, first try to resolve it among yourselves. If the problem escalates or continues, ask the flight attendant for assistance. In manners such as putting your tray up and down, turning off you phone or any other flight procedure, you should not question the crew. However, if there is a customer service concern, you can politely speak to the head staff.
Crying Children
Crying infants should be tolerated the mother wants them to stop crying way more than you do. Refrain from giving the parents long glares – they know their child is being loud and your stare won’t stop it. In the case of older children, try blocking them out with headphones or earmuffs before talking to the parents if the problem persists.
Uncomfortable Arrangements
You have a right to be comfortable, and issues such as seat-kicking, inconsiderate neighbors, and loud media should be addressed by a flight attendant. The staff is trained on how to deal with these problems in the most inoffensive way possible. Tell a member of the crew about your problem and they will take care of it.
Sleeping on Planes
Certain methods can do the job, in case you can’t afford to upgrade, and you can trick your body into sleeping — and people into not disturbing you. Some of the hacks may be obvious — no coffee, alcohol, or junk food. Others, such as grapping a sleep-inducing snack or not picking a seat in the front of the plane, are often overlooked. Don’t be shy, and recline your seat as much as possible cover your face to block all kinds of light affecting the body’s ability to produce melatonin make sure you’re hydrated enough and forget about entertaining yourself with the small screens in front of you.
Flying With Pets
You want to ensure that Fido or Felix is safe and comfortable, but some airlines make this tricky and very difficult. Also, advance arrangements are not guarantees that your pet will travel on a specific flight. Typically, airlines require pet health certificates that are no older than 10 days, even if the ｃountry of your destination accepts an older one. Several general guidelines will help you make your companion as relaxed and content as possible.
Flying With Small Children
There is nothing glamorous about traveling with toddlers. The most vulnerable age is when they can walk but can’t stand to sit down for more than five minutes. Meltdowns over toys, naps, food, safety gear, entertainment options – any one of these very few issues can go wrong in a second. Staying calm is a challenging task that can be prevented with proper preparation. This often means advanced planning in terms of clothes, car seats, strollers, toys, and even activities during flights and layovers.
Article Source: http://etn.travel/7-air-travel-issues-and-how-to-resolve-them-27571/
Image Source: https://accelerator-origin.kkomando.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/shutterstock_210042967-970x546.jpg
VOCABULARY WORDS:
1. Resolve (v.) ~ settle or find a solution to (a problem, dispute, or contentious matter)
2. Time crunch (idiom) ~ a shortage of time
3. Reluctance (n.) ~ unwillingness or disinclination to do something
4. Persist (v.) ~ continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or a course of action in spite of difficulty, opposition, or failure
5. Recline (v.) ~ lean or lie back in a relaxed position with the back supported
6. Vulnerable (adj.) ~ susceptible to physical or emotional attack or harm
7. Meltdown (n./ informal) ~ an outburst of severe emotional distress a nervous breakdown
8. Inoffensive (adj.) ~ not objectionable or harmful
9. Amicable (adj.) ~ (of relations between people) having a spirit of friendliness without serious disagreement or rancor
10. Compliant (adj.) ~ inclined to agree with others or obey rules, especially to an excessive degree acquiescent
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. What do you think is the most difficult part of flying by plane?
2. Have you ever had a problem involving kids while on plane? If yes, how did you handle it? If no, what is the best way to handle kids on the plane?
3. To avoid security issues, what are the various items that a person should not include in his/her luggage?
