You’ve probably heard countless stories and watched videos about passengers who were approached by strangers with a request to switch seats on a plane. This usually leads to debates about whether it is acceptable to ask someone to switch seats and how the passenger who is asked to give up their seat should react.
Most travelers agree that the only situation in which it is acceptable to ask someone to switch seats is if you are a parent who couldn’t get a seat alongside their young child any other way. In all other circumstances, asking someone to switch seats is considered a big no-no.
However, this usually doesn’t stop people from trying and relying on the sympathy of a stranger to score a better seat or get seated alongside their family, friends, or partner. If you ever find yourself in this kind of situation and don’t want to give up your seat, consider reacting like this.
Politely Decline
People usually believe that there is no harm in asking. You should also take the same approach and see no harm in declining. Politely decline the request and say that you are not interested in moving. Whether you offer any reasons for your decision is completely up to you.
Stop Giving Them Attention
If the stranger continues to try and pressure you into switching the seat, simply get comfortable and stop giving them attention. They should quickly get the memo and give up.
Inform the Flight Attendant
In case nothing else works and you get tired of saying no, simply inform the flight attendant. Tell them about the issue you are having and they will take it from there.
