Can You Move to an Open Seat on a Plane?

WONDER!
Can You Move to an Open Seat on a Plane?

💺Switching seats on a plane may seem harmless, but doing so without permission can violate airline safety regulations and disrupt the boarding process. Passengers must remain in their assigned seats during boarding and should always ask permission before moving.

Seat changes can impact the aircraft’s weight and balance, especially on smaller planes. Even small shifts in passenger location can affect the aircraft's center of gravity, which is critical for safe flight.

Valid reasons for switching include mobility issues, claustrophobia, the need to sit with a travel companion, or a malfunctioning seat or screen. In such cases, flight attendants are often willing to help.

Passengers may request to move to exit row seats for extra legroom, but they must be at least 15 years old and willing to assist during an emergency.

Ultimately, showing courtesy and clear communication with the cabin crew not only supports safety—it may even lead to a more pleasant and rewarding flight experience.

LATEST NEWS

🚫The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 advisory for Cuba due to rising crime and frequent power outages. Travelers should stay alert, avoid showing valuables, and prepare for blackouts. Tourism is restricted, so travel must fall under approved categories like education or humanitarian work.

⚠️ The U.S. reissued a Level 2 travel advisory for the United Kingdom due to ongoing terrorism concerns. Travelers should stay vigilant in public areas, especially during major events. It's recommended to review safety guidance and register with STEP before traveling.

✈️Alaska Airlines (Operated by Hawaiian Airlines) has a new direct flight connecting Seattle (SEA) and Tokyo (NRT). The 10.5-hour flight departs Seattle at 1:30 p.m. and arrives in Tokyo the next day at 4 p.m. This marks the start of Alaska's international expansion, with future routes to Europe by 2026.

FLIGHT HOT DEALS

✈️JetBlue is running its “Book it Before it’s Hot” sale with one-way fares from $49 out of South Florida airports like MIA and FLL. Destinations include New York, Boston, Charleston, and even The Bahamas. The sale ends May 15, with travel valid from May 27 to October 4 (blackout dates apply).

🍁 Air Canada is offering triple Aeroplan points to UK travelers booking flights to Canada or the U.S. by May 31, for travel through December 15. The promotion comes amid a decline in transatlantic traffic and aims to attract Europeans seeking alternatives to the U.S., where political tensions and tariffs have impacted demand.

SAFE TRAVELS
✈️ How to Stay Healthy When You Fly!

Summer travel is heating up, and with crowded airports and full flights, staying healthy on the go takes a bit of planning. The good news? A few simple habits can help you avoid getting sick before, during, and after your flight.

Before you fly, start by building up your immune system. Eat well, get plenty of sleep, manage stress, and stay hydrated—ideally for several days before takeoff. Choosing your seat wisely can also help: studies suggest window seats may expose you to fewer germs. Don’t forget to pack essentials like hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, cold meds, healthy snacks, and an empty water bottle.

In the air, the key is to limit exposure. Wearing a mask, especially in tight quarters, can help protect against respiratory viruses. Use hand sanitizer frequently, and wipe down surfaces like your tray table, seatbelt, and armrests.

After landing, wash your hands again and continue those healthy habits—rest, hydration, and nutritious meals are your immune system’s best friends.

DID YOU KNOW?

Choosing a window seat could help you stay healthier while flying! A 2018 study found passengers by the window are less exposed to germs than those in aisle seats. A 2022 study also suggests that sitting toward the back of the plane may reduce your risk even further.