You finally get settled into your seat. You are ready to relax, maybe catch a nap. Then it starts. Thump. Thump. Thump.
Someone behind you is kicking your seat and they do not appear to be stopping anytime soon.
It is one of the most frustrating things that can happen on a flight. And it happens more often than you might think. So what should you do? We looked to the people who know best: flight attendants.
Try Handling It Yourself First
First advice by a seasoned flight attendant? Try a calm, polite word first.
He suggested something like:
“Excuse me, I’m so sorry, but I’ve just had a very long day and am trying to take a nap.”
It sounds simple. But he says it often works. His reason? Many people honestly do not realize they are kicking the seat in front of them. A gentle reminder is sometimes all it takes.
The key is staying calm and friendly. A quiet word is far more likely to solve the problem than a sharp reaction, which could make things worse for everyone on board, including you.
When to Get the Flight Attendant Involved
If you speak up and the kicking continues, that is when you bring in the crew. The same flight attendant recommends getting up quietly, walking to the nearest galley or lavatory, and pulling a crew member aside to explain the situation. Let them take it from there.
This approach, quiet, private, and respectful, tends to work better than pressing the call button and making a scene in front of the whole cabin.
What Happens When a Child Is the Kicker
Young children are often the ones doing the kicking. An American Airlines flight attendant explained that this usually involves a small child on a parent’s lap who is hitting the seat or playing with the tray table.
In those cases, flight attendants typically approach it from a safety angle, reminding the parent that the child needs to be seated and secured. That framing avoids making the parent feel judged. If the child is a bit older, simply pointing it out is usually enough to stop the behavior.
If space is available, the crew can also reseat the affected passenger.
An Alaska Airlines flight attendant takes a more direct approach with young kickers. She says she will simply tell the child, firmly, to stop.
The Bottom Line
Whether the kicking is accidental or intentional, you have options. Start with a kind word. If that does not work, find a crew member and let them handle it.
You paid good money for that seat. You deserve to enjoy your flight in peace.