What is seat squatting? The new travel trend making waves (and frustrating passengers)

When seat squatting goes unchecked: The latest travel trend causing frustration in the skies. (Image: Canva)

Have you ever boarded a flight only to find someone in your seat, lounging as if they’ve claimed it as their own? Welcome to the latest travel dilemma: seat squatting. This rising trend is stirring up frustration and leaving travelers questioning their rights to the seats they’ve paid for. But what exactly is seat squatting, and why is it becoming such an issue in the skies?

So, What Exactly is Seat Squatting?
Seat squatting is when passengers take over seats they’re not assigned to—whether that’s sneaking into a higher class like business or first class without the upgrade or simply occupying an empty spot in a different part of the plane. While some might see it as harmless, it disrupts the travel experience for those who rightfully have those seats, often leading to tension before the plane even takes off.

Why Are People Doing It?
Seat squatting has become an increasingly common trend among travelers, and here's why more and more passengers are tempted to claim seats that aren’t theirs:

1. The Empty Seat Temptation: Overbooking is common, which often leads to empty seats in economy, business, or first class. Travelers take the opportunity to move into what seems like an unclaimed seat.
2. Searching for Comfort: A little extra legroom, more space, or a chance to try out a luxury seat on a long flight may lead some to test their luck.
3. Lack of Supervision: With flight attendants often busy with their usual duties, some passengers think they can get away with occupying a seat that's not theirs.

Caught in the act: Seat squatting on flights is becoming the new headache for passengers and airlines. (Image: Canva)

How Should You Handle Seat Squatters?
Encountering a seat squatter can be one of the more frustrating aspects of air travel. However, there’s no need to let it ruin your journey. Here’s how to handle the situation smoothly and with minimal stress:

1. Check your seat assignment: Before boarding, double-check your ticket so you know exactly where you’re headed.
2. Be polite but firm: Gently remind the squatter that the seat is assigned to you, showing them your ticket if necessary. A simple approach usually works.
3. Call on the crew: If the squatter doesn’t budge, it’s time to involve the flight attendants. They’re trained to handle such issues efficiently and can get things sorted quickly.4. Stay cool: While frustrating, staying calm ensures the situation doesn’t escalate. After all, we’re all in this together.

As seat squatting continues to stir up tensions on flights, it’s a trend that travelers should be aware of. While it may seem tempting to move to a better seat, it’s crucial to respect seating assignments and avoid conflicts in the air. Remember, a little patience and politeness can go a long way, ensuring your journey starts and ends on a peaceful note.