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Don't fly around plane cabin & Summer Attire: Hosiery

Dear Thelma:

I am a frequent business flier. As the summer kicks into high gear, so do vacation plans. Can you offer travelers basic in-flight etiquette to help make us all a bit more comfortable as we jet across the wild blue yonder?

Answer:

Consideration for other travelers can be difficult when flying in the cramped quarters of an airplane, but consideration is the key to comfort.

Minding your own and others' personal space is of the utmost importance. Keep your hands, feet, knees and belongings in your own area. Avoid hogging the armrest and bin space.

Some people look forward to making new friends or cultivating business opportunities. Some don't. Learn to recognize both. If you prefer to avoid a chatty seatmate in order to sleep or work, it is appropriate to graciously say so.

Children can be an in-flight challenge for parents and other passengers. Little can be done about a child's excited squeals of delight when boarding or the cries that come from the pressure change at takeoff and descent. However, parents can keep kids' feet and hands off the back of the seat in front of them. Instruct children to leave the tray tables alone and attempt to keep excited noises under control.

Inconsiderate behavior that disturbs your neighbors is also to be avoided. Refrain from pulling on the seatback of the person in front of you and avoid slamming the tray table closed. Keep the music on your MP3 or Walkman down. Not everyone wants to hear a mini-concert. Don't hold business meetings in the aisle. If you must, modulate your voice to low tones so other passengers aren't forced to become party to your conversation. Besides, you never know when a competitor is listening.

Finally, a little kindness goes a long way. Accommodate split parties. Be open to changing seats so the newlyweds or a father and son can sit together. If you notice someone struggling with luggage, help her or him. When deplaning, allow the people in front of you to move into the aisle first. Your kind restraint will make the exit more pleasant for everyone.

Dear Thelma:

I am a professional woman. As summer approaches, I dread the thought of having to wear hosiery to the office. What is the proper business attire?

Answer:

Professional attire is no longer dictated by a dark suit and hosiery. It is both appropriate and professional to go without hosiery, but do make sure your feet and legs are well groomed.

Fashion fluctuates; good manners never go out of style.