Etiquette expert reveals why the middle seat DOESN’T always get both armrests – and what to do with arm hoggers
AN etiquette expert has revealed why the person in the middle seat doesn’t get both armrests and what to do with hoggers.
The middle seat is often the least desirable on a standard row of three as it doesn’t provide either the legroom of the aisle or the view from the window.
Some might feel, though, that it’s worth being squished into the middle in order to get the benefit of an armrest on either side.
Unfortunately, it’s not that simple according to Diane Gottsman,
Diane, who specialises in etiquette training for businesses, told HuffPost: “When it comes to armrests, the middle seat generally has their choice but should only use one armrest or the other.”
This was backed up by the Emily Post Institute, an organisation dedicated to “promoting etiquette and civility” in modern society.
The Institute’s website explains: “The middle seat armrests are shared property.
When traveling you must also pack your kindness and your consideration.
Jackie Vernon-Thompson
“That said, it’s generous for the aisle and window seat holders to give the middle passenger a chance to claim them first.”
As the specialists suggest if you find yourself in the middle seat, it’s best to pick one armrest and work it out with your fellow passengers.
Obviously, if the seat on one side of you is empty, then it’s best to lean in that direction where possible.
That being said, plenty of holidaymakers will have seen their fair share of armrest hogs in their time and the experts had some tips on how to handle the frustrating situation.
Diane Gottsman, an independent etiquette consultant, recommended: “If a fellow passenger is not being respectful with their armrest, meaning they are leaning into your personal space over the armrest, look at them and politely request they slightly adjust their body as it seems you are short on room.
“If someone is using your armrest, you have to ask yourself whether it’s worth the potential altercation.
“It’s always best to ask a flight attendant for assistance, but arguing over an armrest is probably low on a flight attendant’s radar when they are responsible for the safety and comfort of the entire plane.”
Likewise, Jackie Vernon-Thompson of the From the Inside Out School of Etiquette, urged passenger to compromise and maintain their manners even if confronted with a hog.
She said: “When traveling you must also pack your kindness and your consideration.
“If you are a tiny human and the person next to you is folding themselves into an origami-yoga pose to fit in 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 it worse.