Commercial airline flights are more crowded than ever due to a reduction in aircraft and routes because of the economy. That results in fewer frequencies to popular destinations, making the flights that are operating even more crowded. Although airplanes are crowded, you should not forget to be courteous to your fellow traveler. These are a few tips I’ve come up with over the past week that should make the skies a better place for everyone. Especially since the news about what’s been happening up there has been quite weird recently!

Boarding
Ensure you have the proper size carry-on items; be certain that you know where to put them. Smaller items should be placed below the seats, and bigger items should be placed up top in the overhead bins. This helps you to board the plane quicker and keep the line moving.

Arm Rests
Though not required–if you’re seated in the window or aisle seat–it would be nice to allow the passenger in the middle seat use of both of his/her arm rests. Those passengers are in a very limited space and have no elbow room. Allowing them use of both arm rests can allow them to sit comfortably. Well, as comfortably as they can!

Restroom Visits
If seated in the middle or window seat, try to use the restroom when the passenger in the aisle does. This alleviates that passenger from repeatedly getting in and out of their seat.

Your Cabin Crew
Be patient when dealing with the flight attendants. There is only one flight attendant for every 50 passengers in the United States, and most attendants are usually trying to fulfill more than one request at a time.

Deplaning
Try to remain seated until the line to exit the aircraft reaches your row. This allows the other passengers room to collect their belongings.