Originally Posted by chwillia

There seems to be a lot of new flyers hitting the air lately so let's start a list of proper procedures for flying. Please add to this list.

1. If you are seated in row 25 do not leave your carry on above row 5 just because you were allowed to board early and all the overhead bins are empty.

Why would I be seated in row 25, unless it's a 747 or A330? I'm elite! Arrrrrrrrrr!

2. If you have more than one carry on (roller luggage and laptop bag) you should gate check the luggage if the flight is full. This helps your fellow passengers by allowing everyone to keep their laptops, books, dvd's, briefcases, etc...reasonably accessible during the flight.

You're kidding, right? One of the best benefits of being elite is getting on the plane early, and having space for your bags. If luggage is tight, I may take my laptop and put it under the seat.

3. If you know that you need frequent 'potty breaks' while traveling then don't choose a window seat. If you were automatically put in the window seat than explain to the others in your row and offer to change to the aisle.

I book far enough in advance that I get my selected seat 95% of the time. I abhor asking to change seats, so usually just suck it up. On domestic flights on NW, it's very rare to have to need a potty break.

4. Just because you are allowed to use your cell phone until the cabin door closes does not mean you have to use it. The same goes for the after landing. Call your ride and tell them you've landed and let the more important calls wait until you are off the plane.
5. If you are guilty of number 4, at least talk softly in to your phone. I don't need to know what customer is a pain in the butt, who at the office is getting fired, and what has happened to your portfolio this week.
6. Don't take reading material in to the lavatory. Yuck!
7. When you use the lavatory dry out the sink with your paper towel after you wash your hands. If you are a guy and you splattered a bit due to turbulance....clean that up too!
8. Don't leave trash in your seatback pockets at the end of the flight. The FA's always come around and ask for this stuff so there is no need to leave it behind.
9. Elbow space in the main cabin....well I don't know of a good rule so just be polite. If nothing else at least keep your elbow from going over the arm rest and in to your neighbors territory.

Where is your arm supposed to go, other than over the arm rest?

10. Farting: If you have to release a little gas please use the lavatory. You cannot redirect the smell using the overhead air vents. It just doesn't work.
11. When you are getting up and down resist the urge to use the seat in front of you as an anchor point. It is worse than kids feet in their back.