An etiquette expert has revealed why the person in the middle seat doesn’t have both armrests and what to do about the pigs.
The middle seat is often the least desirable in a standard row of three, as it offers neither aisle legroom nor window views.
Some may feel, however, that it’s worth being squeezed in the middle to get the benefit of an armrest on each side.
Unfortunately it’s not that simple according to Diane Gottsman
Diane, who specializes in etiquette training for businesses, said HuffPost: “When it comes to armrests, the middle seat usually has its choice, but should only use one armrest or the other.”
This was supported by the Emily Post Institute, an organization dedicated to “promoting etiquette and civility” in modern society.
The Institute’s website explains: “The center seat armrests are shared property.
When traveling you should also take your kindness and consideration with you.
Jackie Vernon-Thompson
“That said, it is generous that the aisle and window seat supports give the middle passenger a chance to claim them first.”
As experts suggest, if you’re in the middle seat, it’s best to choose an armrest and work it out with the other passengers.
Obviously, if the seat on one side is empty, it’s best to lean in that direction whenever possible.
That said, many tourists have seen their fair share of armrest pigs in their time and experts have offered some tips on how to deal with the frustrating situation.
Diane Gottsman, an independent etiquette consultant, recommended: “If another passenger is not being respectful of the armrest, meaning they are leaning into your personal space on the armrest, look at them and politely ask them to slightly adjust your body as you feel you have little space.
“If someone is using your armrest, you should ask yourself if it’s worth the potential fight.
“It’s always best to ask a flight attendant for help, but arguing about an armrest probably isn’t on a flight attendant’s radar when he or she is responsible for the safety and comfort of the entire plane.”
Similarly, Jackie Vernon-Thompson of the From the Inside Out School of Etiquette urged passengers to compromise and maintain their manners, even when confronted with a pig.
She said: “When traveling you should also take your kindness and consideration with you.
“If you are a tiny human being and the person next to you is bending into an origami-yoga pose to fit into the seat, even if the armrest is ‘yours,’ you should share.”
It comes after travel experts revealed that air passengers are actually getting angrier – and identified the “hidden” airline fees that are making the situation worse.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
