How to Handle Bad Behavior on Planes

4. Avoid the bustle. If the passenger behind you grabs the back of your seat to steady himself even when there's no turbulence, turn to the person and, in a polite voice, say: "Excuse me … I don't know if you realize this, but when you grab the back of my seat to stand, it disturbs me. Thanks." If a child seated behind you repeatedly kicks your seat, stand and ask the accompanying adult to please make sure the child does not do this. Remember to smile and say thanks. Finally, if you're seated on the aisle next to someone who gets up continually to use the restroom, switching seats with her will go a long way toward making the flight more comfortable for you both.

5. Deal with bad smells. If you're seated next to a person who removes his shoes (and doesn't change into a clean pair of socks), politely ask him to put his shoes back on, as the odor is bothering you. You can also ask someone who is eating an odiferous snack to wait till she reaches the destination to enjoy it.

Also of interest: 

• Find out if your "senior moments" normal.
  
• How to score the best seat on a plane.

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