PASSENGER BEHAVIOR Archives - Elliott Report

This summer, angry air travelers are reaching new heights of tension and frustration. Passengers like Leigh Shulman, who recently navigated an airport with a broken ankle, are finding themselves overwhelmed by rudeness and stress. With packed flights, divisive politics, and aggravating fees, it's no wonder tempers are flaring. Incidents of unruly behavior are making headlines, and the statistics are troubling. Experts say the key to surviving this summer of not-so-fun travel lies in managing stress and showing compassion. Can you keep your cool in the skies? Discover essential tips for a calmer journey.

Angry air travelers lash out at each other during the summer of not-so-fun travel. Here’s how to handle it.

August 2, 2024July 27, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Is it my imagination, or are air travelers getting angrier at each other this summer?

Air travelers often exhibit "exit envy," a phenomenon where passengers rush to disembark the moment the plane lands, leading to chaos and frustration. Whether driven by the need to make a tight connection or simply a desire to leave the plane as soon as possible, this behavior disrupts the usual deplaning process. However, there are courteous ways to ensure you can exit early without inconveniencing others, including enlisting the help of flight attendants or securing a seat near the front. Learn the art of exiting a plane early without stepping on toes.

Why does everyone want to get off the plane first? It’s exit envy!

September 27, 2024February 24, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Why do air travelers want to get off the plane first? As soon as the aircraft pulls up to the gate, it’s a mad stampede to the front.

A quiet war unfolds at the boarding gates, where travelers, desperate for a sliver of advantage, resort to tactics that skirt the edge of absurdity. This battle over boarding isn't just about securing a spot on the plane; it's deeply rooted in a dance of anxiety, driven by the fear of missing out on precious overhead bin space, and the eagerness to begin their journeys. As this scramble for early boarding plays out, the raw edges of human nature are exposed—cunning, desperation, and perhaps a touch of genius. It paints a vivid tableau of our collective quest for control and comfort on the unpredictable journey of life.

Airline passengers are cutting in line when they board. It’s time to stop!

August 8, 2024February 17, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Everyone wants to get on the plane first, and it’s getting out of control.