If you were sitting next to a deaf person on a plane, what would you do to communicate with them?

Question

In respone to: "why would I communicate with them?" and "Are you one of those who likes to talk with strangers on planes?" Hmm, I am deaf & sometimes have a difficulty riding on planes because people who sit next to me don't even talk to me what is going on up in the air - one time, I was clueless with what was going on while we were circling the airport. Selfish people suck.

Answer 1

i always just used pen and paper, and i was also fascinated with ASL as a child, so i know a little (however, not enough to save my life) because i spent a summer or two at the local library looking through ASL books. i have to say I've forgotten a good bit of it, but i do remember a little.

i never minded talking to people on planes. i sort of kept to myself unless spoken to, but i didn't ever mind to help people out in whatever way i could. i always figured maybe when I'm in need somebody might do it for me. at least i hope so. karma karma baby!

Answer 2

I don't talk to people on planes, I'd rather be left alone.

But if I knew the person next to me was deaf I would ask them if they needed any help, or at least explain any announcements made by the pilot. I have 2 years of college ASL.

Most hearing people don't know sign and wouldn't know how to communicate. I don't think its rudeness, its just that an airplane isn't a social situation so most people keep to themselves.

Answer 3

The first thing you have to do is to be sure that person cares to communicate, that goes for anyone regardless of hearing.
If you say a word or two to the person sitting next to you, and he shrugs his shoulders and points to his ears to indicate he doesn't understand you. Write a few words on a pad, then hand the pencil and pad to him.
It's the same as speaking, you'll know if the person cares to write back and forth or not. If you write a quite long question, and get a one or two word answer, you can surmise that he'd rather be left alone.

Answer 4

I could use the little bit of ASL that I know or use a piece of paper and a pen. But why would I need to communicate with them?

Answer 5

The only thing I know how to sign is dead elephant in a cup (it doesn't come up much in normal conversation). I'd probably be doing a lot of writing.

Answer 6

I know the alphabet sign language just in case there is no paper and pen available, or in case of emergency.

Answer 7

Try a smile. That works in any language.

I can guarantee it will get the ball rolling.

Answer 8

Pen and paper

Answer 9

paper&pen or act like in charades game like wave ur hand move ur body

Answer 10

i don't usually talk to people on planes unless they talk to me first