Flying has always been an ordeal for me, especially since I’m a 16-year-old who’s a bit over six feet tall. On a recent trip, I encountered a situation that truly pushed my limits, but this time, I had a strategy.
I’m used to the cramped legroom on planes, but this particular flight took it to a whole new level. My mom and I were heading home after visiting my grandparents, and we found ourselves in economy class, where “legroom” is more like a leg squeeze. I knew it would be tight, but I hoped I could make it work.
Then the flight got delayed, and by the time we actually boarded, everyone was on edge. The plane was jam-packed, and the tension in the cabin was obvious. My mom and I settled into our seats, and I tried my best to position myself so my legs weren’t too cramped. In an effort to help, my mom handed me a travel pillow and some magazines.
That’s when the trouble started. The seat in front of me lurched backward about an inch. At first, I assumed it was just a minor shift. Nope. The man in the business suit ahead of me pushed his seat all the way back. I get that people want to recline, but there’s a basic courtesy to check behind you first. Not this guy—he just kept going until his seat was nearly on my lap.
With my knees jammed into his seat, I twisted my legs to avoid actual pain. Leaning forward, I politely said, “Excuse me, sir, could you move your seat up a little? There’s not much room for my legs.”
Continue reading on next page…