The thought of sitting in an airplane crammed between two complete strangers on an 7 hour flight is enough to make even the most frequent flier nervous. Then ask yourself what you would do if you had forgotten your book, your MP3 player's battery died and the in-flight video equipment has malfunctioned. Just how would you make it to Madrid and arrive the same emotionally balanced, happy person you were before you stepped on that 757 bound to paradise? As a flight attendant for a major airline I have seen it all in regards to the length people will go to make their flight as painless and quick as possible. I have compiled a list of a few tried and true methods and suggestions for surviving a long haul flight and making the time pass a little bit faster.
1. Bring your work with you. From catching up on emails, to paying bills, to writing reports, business professionals have been doing double duty with their time on the plane for years. Not only will you feel more productive and accomplished when you land, but the tedious and monotonous work just may be enough to put you to sleep in time to catch a well deserved cat nap by the time you descend.
2. Hobbies and crafts. Knitting and crocheting are very popular with not only passengers but flight attendants as well. Mindless activities tend to speed up the flight and always invite conversation. So next time you are packing your carry-on, don't forget the knitting needles (yes, they ARE allowed through security) and the yarn.
3. Play a game. A lot of people choose to bring their handheld games with them as a way to ward off boredom. Occasionally I have seen a group of complete strangers passing the time partaking in such travels games as I would have played when I was a child. I-spy was a favorite with a fun group of people. I have also been involved in compiling G-rated jokes passed out from the passengers and read over the P.A. to the amusement of everyone. (a willing flight crew with a sense of humor is a must for this one). Don't be afraid of engaging your neighbor in some harmless, fun way to pass the time.
4. Get some exercise and take a walk. As soon as that seat-belt sign goes off you are free to move about the cabin. Take advantage, stretch your legs and get your blood moving. Just don't try the in-seat yoga techniques that I have seen attempted by one particularly flexible passenger on a flight to London.
5. Strike up a conversation with the flight attendant. Chances are they are just as bored as you are, only they are not allowed to sleep! Next time you find yourself waiting in line to use the tiny lavatory, ask your friendly flight attendant how her day is going. I can assure you, if you are interested, she will have a ton of funny, unbelievable, and fascinating stories she will be more than willing to share.