Yes, Im here with my kids, she interrupts, but you’re free to sitthere.
She gestures with a hand-wave to 26C, an aisle seat.
This isnt the first time Ive been a victim of nonconsensual airplane seat switching.
Since when did this become acceptable behavior?
Why are airplane seat switching requests becoming rampant and ruder?
Im not the only victim of airplane seat switching; Ive found a community of unseated victims on TikTok.
Chicago-based psychotherapist
So, what the heck is going onare people legitimately getting ruder?
Well, as it turns out, maybe.
We were conditioned to get distant from other people [during the pandemic], says Dr. Daramus.
And, apparently, that means seat switching on an airplane to wherever we want.
If anything, paying for a window seat is a kind courtesy to other passengers.
I deserve to feel comfortable during my flights.
Why should I have to sacrifice my own comfort?
Do I need to start hiring a child actor to accompany me on flights?
Really, the conflict is within yourself, says Libios.
Chicago-based psychotherapist
Why dont I think I deserve to sit here?
What is it in me saying that I dont deserve this space, that I dont deserve this seat?
Because you do have every right to say no.
Maybe your child is young enough that youre simply concerned about having them sit next to strangers.
The problem lies in assuming Im willing to make myself uncomfortable for your family.
But she didnt, and the other two offenders Ive recently encountered didnt, either.
Ultimately, though, my co-passengers lack of planning is not my emergency.
And while were at it, no, I cant kick off the window shade right now, sorry.
I like having it down, thank you.
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