How do I ensure that I can get off a plane first?

Question

I have a short layover and want to know if there is anything I can do to get off the plane first so I can catch my next flight. Can I talk to the flight attendent or do I just have to wait my turn?

Answer 1

All you can do is get a seat in the FRONT of the plane.

You cant talk to a flight attendant, they wont tell everyone else to stay in their seat so you can get off first.... also, there are others that have a short layover as well.

And it also seams that a lot of people have never been on an airplane before... so this his how it works. You land, you taxi, and as soon as people hear the engines turn off, they are standing in the isle waiting for the jetway to connect and the door to open... there is no controlling the mob of people who want to get the hell off the cramped plane. So go online, choose a seat in the FRONT of the plane, and you will be the first (or almost first) off.

I have had 20 minute layovers with no problem, so I would not be to worried about it. Airlines generally book flights with enough time for layovers... and the only time there is an issue is with International layovers, where you have to clear Immigration and Customs.

So... unless that is the case, you will make it.

Answer 2

As a general rule airlines will not book a connecting flight if it is not possible to make it. So if you flight lands on time you should not have a problem. Also, be aware that some airlines print the boarding time on your boarding pass, NOT the departure time. That throws a lot of people off. So look closely and make sure that the time you are looking at for your connecting flight is the actual departure time, not just the boarding time, which can be as much as 30 minutes prior to departure. As for getting off the plane first, forget it. Only way that will happen is if you're seated in the first row. Sorry, but that's the way it works.

Answer 3

There is no way to "ensure" you get off a plane first. You can ask when you purchase your ticket for a spot up front, but there is no guarantee that you will be accommodated. If you're lucky a flight attendant will give you a break, but if they do they will be breaking the rules. They don't know that you really have a short lay over, and they also don't know if anyone else does. They are not allowed to show any favoritism, because it is a good way to get sued. In most cases, you'll just have to wait your turn. It happens.

Answer 4

There's nothing stopping you explaining your problem to the flight attendant. Whether they'll help you depends on a number of things, e.g.

- if when you booked your ticket (especially if you used an agent) it was stated to be a recognised connection;

- if both flights are with the same airline;

- if you've paid a lot for your ticket (first and business class people get the jump on the folks in economy);

- whether the flight attendant had something nice for breakfast.

It's definitely worth trying. They're supposed to be into customer service, after all.

Answer 5

Sit in the front row. Reserve your seat online, If not talk with the attendat.

Answer 6

Be the first in line to board, after handicapped and children so that you can sit up front in their section.

Answer 7

Sometimes if you have crutches they let you off first... You can purchase a cheap pair of crutches at Walgreen's or any drug store.

You could always tell the person sitting in the first seat your predicament and maybe they could trade with you.

Answer 8

I am sure if you explain they will help you as soon as they possibly can

Answer 9

bribery may work