CLEVELAND, Oh – My question is about airplane window seat shade etiquette.
Does the person sitting in the window seat have total control over whether the shade stays up or down during the flight or do the other travelers in that row have a say over the position of the shade? I always choose the window seat so I can see outside. The person next to me asked me to close the shade so he could watch a movie and see his screen better. I was miserable the whole flight and felt that I should have been able to keep the shade up since I purchased a window seat. How do I say no without upsetting the whole row or do I have the right to choose up or down?
Answer: When it comes to airplane travel, things can be tricky. But the benefit of purchasing your tickets early is the option to pick your seats.
If you like to sit by the window, this does give you control over the “window shade.” Afterall, you may have chosen a window seat because you like to look out the window, maybe you are a bit claustrophobic, get sick or whatever the case may be.
Not everyone will be happy but their happiness is out of your control. When traveling one needs to come prepared, that includes bringing an eye mask, hoody, or cases for their phones, tablets etc.
If the person next to you asks you to close the window, that would be your choice if you would like to oblige. I would hope that they ask nicely but ultimately, since that is the seat that you paid for you have the option to politely say no or compromise and maybe lower it halfway.
On flights the crew or pilot will usually announce when and if the shades need to be open (usually during take-off and landing). If you are traveling on an evening flight, they may ask that the shade remain down for those that may be sleeping.
Enjoy your flight looking out the window if that is what you prefer but don’t be miserable during the flight because you are trying to please and accommodate those around you.
Safe travels.
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Do you have a question or an etiquette predicament that you want advice on? Send me an “Ask Yadi” email at yrodriguez@cleveland.com
Yadi Rodriguez, columnist for Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer