A traveller sparks controversy by opting to sit directly behind another passenger on a sparsely populated flight, prompting a debate on social media about proper seat selection etiquette.

A recent flight on a Southwest aircraft with only three passengers onboard turned into a social media spectacle when Chef Anthony Thomas from Washington, DC, took to X to express his frustration over a fellow passenger’s seat choice. Despite ample empty seats, the third traveller decided to sit directly behind Thomas, leading to a flurry of comments and speculation about the reasons behind the decision.

While some social media users criticized the passenger for lacking spatial awareness or social etiquette, others defended the choice, suggesting reasons such as anxiety about flying or a desire for safety and security. The incident highlights the nuances of seat selection etiquette in situations where passengers have the luxury of choosing from a wide array of empty seats.

Southwest Airlines, which operates on a first-come, first-served seating basis, allows passengers to select any available seat upon boarding. This policy adds an element of unpredictability to seat selection, as passengers must navigate the unwritten rules of seating etiquette in real-time.

The incident serves as a reminder that even in seemingly trivial situations, such as seat selection on an empty plane, social norms and expectations can play a significant role in shaping our interactions and perceptions.