Airline flights, especially for those who are unable to sleep on the plane, can be a tedious, cramped, and uncomfortable experience. Fortunately, even with the many restrictions as to what you can bring in your carry-on bag, there are many ways to pass the time on a flight.
1) Read
Books are easy to pack and don't take up much space. They also don't require charging, and don't have to be put away or turned off during the takeoff and landing. With the sheer number of books and magazines available, it should not be hard to find one on a topic of interest to you or those you are traveling with.
2) Movies and TV shows
Thanks to laptops, iPods, and portable DVD players, it is very easy to bring along some form of visual entertainment for your flight. However, if you are on a short flight, this may be more of a hassle than it is worth, as having to shut off electronic devices during takeoff and landing can cut into your viewing time.
3) Postcards
Everyone does it when they go on vacation - buy postcards only to forget about them until you get home. Instead of just setting them aside when you get home, use the extra time to write out the messages on the plane and still mail them or hand them out from home. In today's computer age it is always exciting to get something handwritten in the mail!
4) Boring Stuff
It may not be entertaining, but it will pass the time. If there are certain household-related chores or paperwork you can catch up on while on the flight, use the time wisely. Go through your bank statements, fill out forms, organize a small photo album. Just be sure that whatever you are doing is not interfering with the person next to you.
5) Handcrafts
The new FAA restrictions do not ban knitting needles and crochet hooks, so bringing along your latest project is a great way to pass the time on the flight.
6) Conversation
If you are seated next to a person who is willing to talk, use the opportunity. You never know what sort of interesting life story or current travel adventures you may get the chance to hear. Opportunities to chat like that are far too rare in this electronic-obsessive age that we live in.
However you choose to pass the time on the flight, be sure to be courteous and respectful of those around you, and to follow all the FAA rules and regulations. This is the easiest way to ensure a safe, comfortable, and relaxing airline flight.