Delayed flights are not only a frustration for you the traveler, but also an exorbitant expense for the airlines, which naturally is passed on to you the consumer. It's not always the weather, the flight crew or maintenence that causes delays to the schedule. Sometimes, it's inconsiderate passengers. Here are some things you can do to help get your flight off the ground and to your destination on time.
Board only at the time the gate agent calls for your row, seat or group to board. This requires you to read your seat assignment and boarding group number. When you go out of order, it slows things down and gives the gate agent an opportunity to make snarky comments on the loud speaker.
Get off your cell phone or blackberry and pay attention to the world around you. Can you help someone else with her bags?
Get prepared to board by having your iPod, book or laptop already pulled from your carry-on so you don't stand in the aisle while doing so. Men, take your jacket off and fold it over your arm while you're waiting in the jet way. Then it's ready to slide into the overhead bin after your bag.
Put roll-on bags into the overheads wheels first, as the flight attendants frequently suggest during their announcements that no one pays any attention to. It really does make more room and doesn't cause others to stand there and move your junk. And seriously, consider putting some stuff under the seat in front of you. Don't be a hog.
If you're in the aisle seat, don't buckle yourself in, get your laptop and everything out until the people on the inside are seated.
