How to outsmart seat recliners on flights

It’s Air Travel Etiquette 101, yet many passengers fail to check behind them—or even offer a heads-up—before crashing their seat back on an airplane.

I've lost track of how often my instincts have been tested as I quickly save my iPad or red wine from disaster. I've also heard heartbreaking stories of cracked screens and tablets caught between a reclining seat and a hard place.

While some seatback slammers are aware of their rudeness and indifferent, I prefer to think that most culprits are occasional flyers who haven’t yet realized the consequences of that little button that tilts back.

This is why I've chosen to take the initiative.

Instead of relying on the kindness of the person in front of me, I now introduce myself before takeoff and ask them to give me a heads-up before they recline.

Initially, it felt odd. A smile and a nod are usually the extent of interaction with fellow passengers, so actually engaging someone feels like breaking the unspoken rules.

Some people appear a bit puzzled at first, but they understand when I mention that my device could be at risk or I might end up drenched in red wine if I'm not prepared for them to lean back.

One important point to communicate during this preflight chat is that I'm not asking them to remain upright the entire flight. As nice as extra space is, this isn’t about denying them the right to recline so I can work or enjoy a movie.

I always clarify that I'm completely fine with them reclining their seat; I just ask for a heads-up beforehand.

Some people firmly believe that reclining is unacceptable on daytime or short flights. Personally, I support comfort as long as the other person informs me before leaning back. As the seat domino effect begins, I'll let the person behind me know when I’m about to do the same.

With more airlines removing seatback screens and promoting personal inflight entertainment, the chances of mishaps and disputes are rising. By taking the initiative, you can hopefully avoid some tense situations and influence fellow passengers positively, one at a time.

So far, everyone I've approached has either kept their seat upright during the flight or turned to give me a courteous warning before reclining.

One day, I might find myself sitting behind someone who doesn't value this travel tip and might even take pleasure in creating a bit of chaos for me.

If that occurs, there’s a good chance I’ll shoot them a glare, then remind myself that most people will act considerately once they understand the situation. After that, I'll go ahead and introduce myself to the next passenger I sit behind—eagerly anticipating the day when someone reciprocates.