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When it comes to flying, there are so many contentious topics to navigate. Is it okay to recline your seat? Who gets the middle seat arm rest? Is it acceptable to ask another passenger to switch seats? It’s an etiquette minefield out there and passengers should tread carefully.
We recently received an email from a reader on a topic I haven’t really seen discussed. He says that he was on a late night flight recently and shortly after takeoff, the cabin went dark … except for a piercing spotlight: the overhead reading light above the seat beside him. This reader asked: What is the etiquette of the overhead light and is it acceptable to ask your seatmate to turn theirs off?
On the surface, the answer to this question seems simple. No.
For some travelers, this beam of light is essential. It provides a way to read, work or maybe even stay awake to avoid jet lag. But for others, it’s a sleep-ruining intrusion. So, what’s the etiquette around using the overhead light on a flight?
Yes, You Can Use the Light
First things first: If the feature exists on the aircraft, you’re within your rights to use it. (This is the argument often made in favor of reclining: If seats weren’t meant to recline, there would be no recline button, although others will argue that just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.) Airlines install these lights for passengers who need or want to stay awake while others sleep. Reading, journaling, working on a crossword; it’s not rude to need light for those activities. Just don’t be this passenger, using an illuminated charging cord.
But: Just like reclining your seat, just because something is allowed doesn’t mean it can’t be done more thoughtfully.
The Problem: The Floodlight Effect
The plane’s overhead light casts a wide beam. In a dark cabin, it doesn’t just illuminate your seat, it lights up the armrest, tray table and even the face of the person next to you who’s trying to fall asleep. It’s not malicious, it’s just how the lighting works.
If you’ve ever been in this situation, trying to rest while bathed in your neighbor’s reading light, you’re not being overly sensitive. It’s bright and it can be hard to ignore.
When You Need Light, Considerate Alternatives
Personally, I’m an e-reader kind of reader. When I got my first e-reader, a Kobo, back in 2010, it was a game-changer for me, especially for travel. I love that I can always carry around a ton of books with me, with essentially no weight added to my bag. I love that the illuminated screen can be dimmed or brightened as needed – especially on an airplane, so my light isn’t bothering anyone. But if you read physical book, here are a few ways to minimize the disturbance of your light:
1. Use a small book light
Clip-on LED book lights are compact, inexpensive and cast a focused beam. They let you read without lighting up your row like a Broadway stage. I bought these lights for both of my kids as well and they’re perfect for travel. They have three different light color temperatures and five brightness levels.
2. Angle the overhead light
Most overhead lights have a directional element. Try tilting it toward your lap or book instead of straight down. It won’t fix everything, but it helps.
3. Limit your time
If you’re only reading for a little bit before sleeping, turn the light off when you’re done. And if you fall asleep with it on (we’ve all been there), consider setting a timer or closing your book if you feel yourself getting drowsy.
And if you’re the passenger trying to sleep, it’s really on you to bring the tools that will help you sleep better, namely a sleep mask, ear plugs and noise-cancelling headphones. This blackout sleep mask is hands-down the best I’ve ever used. Read our review here and buy here.
What If Your Seatmate Leaves Their Light On?
If someone falls asleep with the overhead light still shining, it can feel awkward to reach up and turn it off. But it’s not rude to do so, especially if they’re no longer using it.
If they’re clearly asleep and the light is just … on? You can quietly turn it off. They probably didn’t mean to leave it on. If you feel too weird about it, you can always ask a flight attendant. They’re pros at managing the small social tensions of the cabin.
Travel etiquette isn’t about strict rules. It’s about being aware of how your choices affect the people around you. The overhead light is there for a reason, and using it isn’t rude. But just a little thoughtfulness, like a book light, or switching it off once you’re done, goes a long way and you can rest easy, knowing your seatmates will, too.
KEEP READING
–Is it okay to recline your seat on a short flight?
–‘Eliminate those buttons!’ Larry David rants about reclining seats on airplanes
–Why you need to let the passenger behind you know you’re about to do this
–United Airlines passenger aggressively kicks seat in front because passenger reclined – Airline investigating the incident
–10 air travel pet peeves and how to deal with them
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