Travel experts at Wild Packs have revealed the perfect way passengers should respond when asked to swap seats on a flight.
According to YouGov, a mere 6% of Brits would not switch seats under any circumstances, but doing so can have disastrous consequences. An influencer who recently went viral on TikTok for refusing to give up her plane seat to a crying child revealed she lost her job due to the “devastating” backlash and is now suing the airline.
Jamie Fraser, travel expert at Wild Packs American summer camp has shared the best seat-swapping etiquette for the next time you’re asked to move on a plane as we enter the summer months.
Are you required to swap seats?
“You are not obligated to switch seats with another passenger. Your seat is yours, as printed on your boarding pass. If you have pre-booked a window seat, for example, and are being asked to switch to a middle seat, simply tell them that you prefer to keep the seat you’re in. If the person continues asking, you only need to repeat your answer, no explanation is required. After all, every flyer had the same opportunity to book a preferred seat in advance. It is not your fault if someone fails to plan ahead.”
How to handle a passenger continuing to ask to swap seats
“If the passenger continues to press you to swap seats, it is important to stay firm but polite in your response. Remember that it isn’t rude to decline. Calmly reiterate that you won’t swap seats. If necessary, involve a flight attendant as they are trained to handle these types of situations.”
When should you consider swapping seats?
“You should only seriously consider swapping your seat when a young child has been separated from their family. However, the family should first consult the airline for help before asking a passenger to swap seats. Even then, you are not obligated to switch seats. You can of course consider swapping seats if you are unhappy with your current one, and a passenger offers you a better seat. Outside of this situation, however, asking to swap seats is considered poor travel etiquette. Wanting to sit next to a friend, disliking a middle seat, or failing to book seats together in advance are not justifiable reasons to expect someone to move.”
Why you shouldn’t take someone’s seat without permission
“Assuming you can take another passenger’s seat without asking is a major mistake. An important rule in travel etiquette is that you should never sit in anyone else’s seat before they board. This can cause unnecessary delays when boarding and even tension between you and the rightful ticket holder. The consequences of this can become serious quickly, depending on if the confrontation escalates. A member of staff may ask you to leave the plane or you could find yourself going viral online.”
Tips For When You’re Asked to Swap Seats on a Plane
- You’re not obliged to swap seats: “If someone asks you to switch seats, remember that you’re not under obligation to say yes. Politely decline the opportunity, and there’s no need to explain. Unless staff specifically ask you to move, your seat is yours to keep.”
- Only offer a fair swap: “If you’re the one asking to swap seats, make sure you’re offering a fair trade. This could be the same type of seat elsewhere in the cabin, or offer them a seat upgrade with more space. But expecting someone to swap their window or aisle seat for a middle seat isn’t good etiquette.”
- Book ahead to get the seat you want: “The best way to avoid this issue altogether is to plan ahead. Book early and select your preferred seat when possible. If you’re travelling with others and end up separated, check with staff before boarding, and they may be able to help.”
Viral TikTok of woman being asked to leave her seat:
