Crazy story from a TUI flight: A passenger went viral after holding a truly ridiculous position to stop the row in front of him from reclining during a long flight from Mexico to Manchester. Gary James caught this bizarre act on camera and shared it on TikTok, where it quickly racked up over 5 million views.
The footage shows the determined man firmly holding the seat backs, making sure none of the three passengers in front of him could recline throughout the eight-hour journey. Gary believes the passengers thought their seats were broken. When they tried to lean back, the man would slam his hands back into place, only taking breaks when eating.
This video sparked a lively debate on social media. Some users backed the man’s bold move, suggesting he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for defending legroom. Others slammed his antics as selfish, insisting if a seat comes with recline capabilities, you should be able to use them.
Gary, a software engineer from Halifax, said he was surprised by how many people sided with the man. He believes that as long as it’s not during meal times, passengers should feel free to recline if their seat allows it.
The conversation around plane etiquette continues to divide opinion: Is reclining on a plane a right or an inconvenience to others? What’s your take?