On a recent flight home from Florida I was intrigued to notice all the different types of flyers on the plane. No matter your reason for flying, we’re all stuck together in this large tube of metal thousands of feet above the ground. There’s no escaping from those around you. Whether on a short flight or one for hours, you’re bound to witness the variety of people that I saw.
1. The sleeper.
These are the ones you see carrying their neck pillows throughout the airport. Sometimes they even pull out a blanket from their carry-on. I even saw one lady who brought a mask to cover her eyes. If you’re lucky enough to get comfortable in those seats then go for that nap.
2. The reader.
They purchase numerous magazines from the airport store or bring a traditional paperback. Some people have caught up with technology and bring their kindle or read on their phone. I’ve noticed that most readers seem to be able to block out everything happening around me and get devoured in their books.
3. The talker.
I have a love-hate relationship with these passengers. It’s nice for you to tell me a little about yourself or ask a few questions, but do not talk to me the whole flight. Some people love being social, but when there’s no escaping it can feel overwhelming. I’ve found many people find it necessary to yell when talking on a plane. I guarantee the whole plane does not want to hear your life story. Keep talking to minimum and you should be all set.
4. The observer.
These are the ones you make awkward eye contact with when you turn around or get up to go to the bathroom. They don’t have anything to occupy their time and instead take everything in through all their senses. They tend to be the ones that enjoy people watching.
5. The stressed parent.
I can’t begin to count the number of parents I’ve witnessed struggling to get their child on the plane after checking in their stroller. I’m often impressed at how well they handle their children. You might get the occasional crying baby, but even a parent can only do so much about that. Don’t worry, I know you’re trying your hardest to keep your children quiet to keep peace on the plane.
6. The one who can’t stand children.
These are the people that glare when they see a family enter the boarding area. Sometimes they’ll even have ear plugs handy. Most often they’ll try to sit near the front of the plane where families tend to avoid sitting.
7. The one that can’t sit still.
I’ve nicknamed these passengers the real “frequent flyers.” They’re the ones constantly fidgeting in their seats or taking laps up and down the aisle. Everyone needs to move around from time to time, but these people never seem to take a moment and relax. They like to keep moving.
8. The business man.
These people bring their laptops and briefcases with them for the flight. The moment the flight attendants saw you’ve reached 10,000 feet and can turn on electronics, they’re the first ones to power on. They often pay for the wifi too. They also tend to wear business causal clothing while the rest of the plane relaxes in sweatpants. These are the true work-a-holics.
9. The vacationer.
I’ve seen both people going on vacation and returning from one. The ones with the travel guide books and suitcases full of sunscreen are the ones heading on a vacation. The ones returning from vacation are sporting attire from wherever they visited. I knew there were a number of vacationers on my flight based on the tan lines and sunburns that were everywhere.
10. The one who loves to fly.
There are the ones that rush to get a window seat. They love the feel of turbulence and gliding through the air. They tend to smile the whole flight and stare out the window. They treat the entire flight like a roller coaster ride and love the thrill.
11. The one terrified of flying.
These are the ones that act the exact opposite. They prefer to be near the aisle in case of an emergency. They religiously watch the flight attendants give their safety speech and can read their body language to get a sense of what the flight is going to be like. Often times they close their eyes or will scream at the tiniest bump of turbulence.
12. The one that orders a big meal.
Some people take the time on the plane to eat a four course meal. While I’ve only ever eaten the snacks they hand out (and yes you can ask for more), I’ve seen people order breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desert. I guess there isn’t much else to do besides eat so it seems like a good way to pass the time. Although, food in flight is quite pricey.
13. The flirt.
My personal favorite; these are the ones who hit on the flight attendants or try to determine which suitor they’ll have the best chance with. They often have a lot of self-confidence and project it for everyone to see. Sometimes they’ll buy someone a drink to send a subtle hint. Most of the time, it doesn’t work.
Next time you board a plane, take a minute to classify those sitting around you. You won’t be surprised to find all of the above on the same flight.
