Reclining the seat in Economy: when is it ok?

[tiaretiti]

Who is ‘right’ to recline a seat in Economy?

My thoughts are that reclining the seat in Economy is perfectly fine overnight if it’s sleeping time. During meal times the seat should not be reclined as it’s unfair on the person behind. During the day it’s preferable not to recline fully unless sleeping.

Recently though, on an 8 hour day flight, the couple infront reclined their seat all the way back for the duration of the flight. They were watching films. They even ignored the air stewardess’ request for them to put the seat in the normal position when they serve food. I couldn’t even eat my food so I had to ask them to put it upright. They shrugged their shoulders until an air stewardess very firmly told them to consider other passengers.

Sadly many planes only have a handful of these seats, which often go very quickly. So this isn't always an option ime.

We fell lucky in our last flights. Two flights each way, each of around 6.5-7x.5 hours each. Managed to get extra leg room (exit seats) for all three of us - at no cost! Bonus!

Just not during food. I don't think it's fair for flights under 2 hours really

@Okunevo thank you I was so sick and tired and so shocked that someone would be so aggressive! Reading this thread it seems it's not uncommon for people to think punching and kicking the seat in front is ok?!

Maybe airlines need to clarify the rules on reclining at the start of each flight! Clearly the rules are it's not allowed during take off/landing and when food is being served?!