Flying for the first time? Here's what to do and what not to do before, during and after the flight!
Flying for the first time can be an exciting and adventurous experience. Whether you're travelling on business, going on holiday or flying to see loved ones, there are a few dos and don'ts to make sure you have a comfortable and smooth journey. Here are some useful, guiding tips for first-time air travellers:
BEFORE THE FLIGHT
What to do:
- Arrive at the airport early: Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight's departure time to allow plenty of time to check in, go through security and find your boarding gate.Take your necessary travel documents and paperwork with you.
- Make sure you have your passport or ID card, boarding pass and any other necessary travel documents with you. And if you are travelling with children, you should carry all the necessary documents, which will be requested and checked by the Border Police.
- Check Animawings airline's baggage policy. Make sure you know what the weight and size restrictions are for hold and hand baggage, as well as any charges that may apply. At the airport, these fees are higher than if you had previously paid them online.
- Dress as comfortably as possible: Wear comfortable, breathable clothes and shoes that are easy to put on and, if necessary, take off for security screening.
- Take your favourite book with you so you don't feel the pressure of waiting until boarding and so you have something to do during the flight if you can't rest.
What NOT to do:
- DON'T pack things you don't need. Try to pack as light as possible, enough for the duration of your holiday, but avoid taking unnecessary items that may cause problems at security or incur extra costs, as this can make your trip more stressful.
- DON'T forget any medication you need in case you are taking any medication or have any allergies. Make sure you also have a copy of your prescription with you just in case.
- DO NOT bring prohibited or dangerous items: Check the Animawings travel conditions as well as the legal provisions of the country of transit/destination to ensure that you do not bring prohibited items that may endanger the safety of yourself and other passengers.
DURING FLIGHT
What to do:
- Sit in your assigned seat on your boarding pass. Any attempt to change your seat before take-off, out of a desire to sit next to a familiar person, will hinder the entire boarding process for other passengers and may cause the aircraft to be delayed.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated during your flight.
- Set the air conditioning above your seat to the setting you want without disturbing the passengers next to you.
- Follow the instructions of the Animawings flight crew. Listen to and follow the flight crew's instructions, especially during take-off and landing.
- Consult the Shop On Board catalogue in the seat pocket in front of you and tell the flight attendants what you want to buy. Whether you're tempted by the food & drink offers: we've got fresh sandwiches, nachos, delicious soup or snacks, prosecco, wine, gin or rum, beer or juice, or whether you want Duty Free perfumes on super sale, limited edition watches and jewellery or useful holiday products, on board Animawings you can even buy gifts for your loved ones. Be warned, these products are in limited quantities on board aircraft, so don't hold your breath! The selection of products in the Animawings Shop On Board Catalogue is great :)
What NOT to do:
- Don't annoy those around you and adopt civilised behaviour. Pay attention to other passengers and avoid talking or listening to loud music (unless you have your own headphones) or other disruptive behaviour. Don't swear or behave inappropriately towards the flight crew or other passengers.
- Electronic devices. Follow the flight crew's instructions regarding electronic devices exactly. These procedures are in place for your safety and the safety of other passengers, and remember to turn your phone to "Airplane Mode" or turn it off.
- You cannot smoke on board aircraft. Given international regulations and the fact that the aircraft is an enclosed space, whether you are thinking of the aircraft toilet or have cigarettes/electronic devices, this is completely prohibited and the sensors are extremely sensitive and instantly triggered. Then your holiday will be complicated with statements and fines, which you don't want.
- Follow the audible instructions and recommendations of the flight attendants. Keep your seatbelt fastened during the flight and don't get up if visual signals tell you that you can't unfasten your seatbelt.
AFTER THE FLIGHT
What to do:
- Check that you have everything with you. Before leaving the aircraft, check the seat area and overhead compartment to make sure you haven't forgotten any items or baggage. Also, don't forget to take your hold bag from the baggage retrieval area if you had one.
- Follow airport procedures. Depending on your destination, you may have to go through customs and immigration procedures. Follow the instructions of airport staff and prepare all necessary documents.
- Enjoy your holiday: Relax and enjoy your holiday. Don't forget to have a tasty cocktail to celebrate your first successful flight!
What NOT to do:
- Do NOT rush. Follow the instructions of the captain and flight attendants. If the aircraft train has reached the runway, this does not mean that you have to unbuckle your seatbelt (the seatbelt only unbuckles at a green visual signal) and get ready to collect your luggage. This will only create a traffic jam, cause unnecessary delays, injure another passenger or inconvenience them. From the time the aircraft has landed, it takes about 10 minutes for the doors to open, so be patient.
- Don't leave your valuables or luggage unattended in the airport.
