PLANE COURTESY: HOW PASSENGER ATTITUDES ON BOARD CAN DECREASE THE AIR RAGE PHENOMENON

What was once known as common courtesy is rapidly disappearing in the air travel industry, and the violent behavior known as air rage is a constant threat. Once sought after by other industries for advice because of its expertise in customer service, the air travel industry has now slipped to the lowest rungs of companies with unhappy customers. As airlines cut corners in order to avoid bankruptcy, passengers' patience is tested by the stress of flight delays, crowded airports and close packed seating on airplanes. This article examines the situation, strategies used by passengers and ways the airline industry might better inspire courteous behavior in passengers. A cultural expectation of entitlement and competitiveness for limited resources has led to a breakdown in civilized behavior throughout society, both in the United States and internationally. Air travelers faced with rude and intrusive behavior from others on the flight are beginning to find their own ways of coping, such as high quality headphones to block offensive noises, and mechanical devices to keep the seat in front from reclining to the point where it hits their knees. The most potentially effective remedies will come from airlines that enlist cooperation by offering effective passenger education and possibly even incentives. Acceptable airline behaviors need to be plainly defined and stressed for passengers, both before boarding and onboard. In this paper, some methods are suggested to motivate passengers and to inspire courteous behavior.