Q&A for How to Board a Plane

It depends on the airline or the device itself. If it is a device that can be turned into airplane mode (for example, most smartphones, iPod, tablets, laptops, etc.), then it's often okay to use on almost all airlines. If it is a device using radio waves (eg. RC cars,) then they are banned and not allowed to be used. You are advised on almost all airlines to keep all devices switched off during takeoff and landing; heed the advice given by the flight attendants, as it is for your safety.

There are usually signs directing you. The crowds also tend to go that direction, so follow the crowds.

No, due to federal regulations, the airline prohibits cellular use in-flight and kindly asks you to turn your cell phone to airplane mode.

It's a good idea to put the belt on as soon as you're seated, then it's over and done with, otherwise the flight attendant will request that you do it and there will be in-flight information telling you to put it on. If you have a problem putting it together, check the information sheet in the seat pocket, or ask the flight attendant for assistance. Some in-flight videos also show how to to put it on but by then, you're usually expected to have put it on anyway.

Yes, you may make a call.

Every airplane toilet is free to use. There's no need to pay in order to enter. Simply get in and lock the door. It's all free of charge.

Generally, after passing through TSA and the x-ray machines, you are asked to put your shoes back on to pass on to your gate. If you haven't done so by that time, please do so before arriving at your gate. You will be required to wear shoes while boarding.

You may use your driver's license, government-issued ID, driver's permit, passport, or anything else with your date of birth and picture.

If you have luggage, you would check them in. If not, you go straight to security. Every flight is required to have all passengers go through security. After that, you would go to your gate and wait for an announcement to board the plane.

Yes. Boarding passes are another way to say plane ticket. The term "pass" is meant to be understood as a ticket's digital counterpart these days.

Inform the flight attendant. They are your best resource when you get sick. Press your flight attendant call button on the panel above your seat for assistance.

All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in 3-ounce or smaller containers for carry-on baggage. In addition, all of your items must fit in a clear quart zip-top bag. Only one bag is allowed per passenger and gallon sizes are not allowed.

No. Air travel is one of the safest ways to travel. As is commonly noted, you are more likely to be in a car crash on your way to the airport than on your plane ride. You can find the statistics to back this up by doing an online search.

You will need to contact the airline ahead of time to let them know that a child this age will be traveling alone. But yes, children this young will be given special care to ensure they get to and from their location in a suitable amount of time. Airport workers and airline personnel will ensure the child will not get lost in the process.

Security is getting tighter these days, so you will definitely want to bring along proof from a doctor.

They will be allowed if you have a written prescription saying these medical devices were prescribed by your doctor to treat your diabetes.

Thirty minutes might be enough to get there by running, or it might not. Consult a map of the airport to try to determine whether you're going to be able to get to the right terminal in time. Keep in mind, too, that if there are any delays with your first flight, you'll almost certainly miss your connecting flight.

Yes; however, typically you need your passport to board an international flight.

Ask your airline about this at least a month prior to boarding. It should be treated much like a travel visa or passport, which should allow you to board, but it's best to ask in advance.

No, as long as they are able to be considered your one carry-on and one personal item. However, some flights that are completely packed according to the gate attendant may require you to surrender check-in bags as regular luggage that you would need to pick up as a bag at baggage claim - most often for free. However, this is for flights that are completely packed, and at the agents' discretion.

You can distract yourself by watching the in-flight entertainment or you can read a book and listen to music during your flight.

No. It is suggested that it be off when it goes through security. If they would like it on, they will turn it on themselves for inspection, but this is unlikely to happen.

This is due to the subtle change in cabin pressure. The pressure inside your ears wants to equalize with the cabin pressure: the pop is that equalization.

No, you do not need to print it. The ticket can be scanned from your phone.

Not on the chairs themselves. But they are located above the seats on a small placard.

If you booked your flight as a two-way or round-trip ticket, you will need another ticket but not another reservation. If you booked as two separate reservations, you will have to have another record locator and another ticket.

This will depend on your exact flight. They will probably be calling for the last wave of passengers for your flight. However, some may just be closing the doors to departing passengers, so check with the attendant at the gate.

If you checked in on a mobile device, most of the major airlines offer digital boarding passes. Login and check in with your airline's app, and you should be able to show them this pass to get you to your flight. If not, the ticket counter at the airline you're flying (generally located where you first enter the airport) will be able to print one for you.

They are purchased in several places including online, through a smartphone app, phone call, or through a travel agent. You can also purchase one at the ticket counter inside of the airport.

Yes, you may carry a digital camera on a flight.