Pilot says being 'nice' to your cabin crew is the key to making a long-haul flight more enjoyable
Having an enjoyable long-haul flight in the tight confines of economy class might seem like a somewhat difficult task.
But according to pilot Agnès Chantre, a captain at Air Tahiti Nui, it's not impossible if you follow a few simple steps.
Sharing some of her advice with 9Travel, Agnès says one important thing to note is all about how you treat your cabin crew.
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There are a few things you can do to make economy class more enjoyable. Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg/Getty Images via CNN
Here, Agnès reveals her top tips for surviving a long-haul flight in economy:
Be prepared
If you're bringing your own device, download your favourite movies ahead of time so you've got a library of entertainment to fall back on.
If you're travelling with young children, plan playtime and nap time to keep things interesting and to create some semblance of a bedtime routine.
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An eye mask and noise-cancelling headphones are crucial for sleeping in economy. Getty
Use an eye mask when trying to get some sleep – Air Tahiti Nui provides these for every passenger in the amenity kit. Blocking out as much light as possible makes it easier to nod off, and at the very least you'll get some quality relaxation time.
When travelling in economy, it's a good idea to pack noise-cancelling headphones and consider downloading a few relaxation playlists, meditations, or sleep-inducing podcasts to assist in getting off to sleep.
Be nice to the crew
If you need something from the crew, get up and visit them in the galley rather than ringing your bell. You'll get some additional exercise and they'll really appreciate it.
Being nice to the crew can make all the difference. iStock
Dress for comfort, not for fashion
Wear loose fitting clothing that won't restrict you – space is already tight, so you don't want to feel even more confined! Plus, our bodies naturally swell at altitude, so tight clothing is going to feel even tighter in the air.
Layer up and wear your layers rather than pack them. It's easier to take something off than trying to find it in your carry on later, and consider throwing a scarf or wrap over your shoulders too.
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If you're aiming to get some sleep on your flight, wear something comfortable enough to fall asleep in. Comfort is key and you can always get changed at the other end.
Move
Try to stretch for 5 minutes every hour, focusing on your back, hips, and glutes, which are the areas most likely to tighten up when you've been seated for a long time.
