Flight Attendant Reveals Why Crew Cannot Order Passengers to Recline Seats
An Israir flight attendant has explained why cabin crew cannot force passengers to raise their seats, offering tips on how to handle reclining etiquette on flights.
A debate over airplane etiquette has gone viral after an Israir flight attendant addressed the common passenger grievance regarding reclining seats in economy class.
Naomi Edri, a flight attendant for Israir Airlines who frequently shares aviation tips on social media, addressed the frequent passenger friction caused by a reclining seat. Many travelers turn to cabin crew to ask the person ahead of them to upright their seat, but Edri clarified that flight attendants are strictly prohibited from making such a request.
The logic behind the policy is straightforward: if an aircraft seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism, both the passenger sitting in it and the one behind them possess the absolute right to use it. Edri suggests a simple solution for those bothered by the lack of space—recline your own seat to regain personal comfort.
Furthermore, Edri offered practical advice on how to recline courteously without causing friction. She recommends turning around to give the passenger behind a heads-up before lowering the seat, noting that it is not about asking permission, but rather showing basic consideration. Passengers should also check if the person behind them is eating or using a laptop, and lower the seat slowly to avoid spilling drinks or food set on the tray table.
