Airport Rage

Do airports really send people into a rage or is it just an unlucky coincidence anger happens there?

Causes

Getting frustrated at airports is understandable. I think we all have at some stage. There are a lot of things happening. The slow check-in process, the long lines, the scanning, probing, identity checks, being monitored, etc. They all take time. One needs to be constantly alert and aware of what’s going on, and be on your feet for a while. This can weigh on a person’s mind and can get tiring. I think many of us agree on these points. We would rather this whole operation be more streamlined if it were possible. The less time standing, waiting and snaking around queues the better.

Then there’s other people’s annoying or bad habits that don’t make things any better. The lack of courtesy, respect and understanding from fellow travellers. These you have very little control over. You don’t know other people. Some are not used to all of this and will plainly just lose it. This is when it becomes rage. Not just verbal but physical abuse.

Alcohol and drugs too can cause temper issues. One should never be inebriated or on any narcotic if they know it will affect their perceptions. The last thing we want is anything that alters people’s minds in a bad way. So the best advice is to lay off these until you get to destination. Drinking alcohol on a plane, doing it moderately and how to behave is for an other article and rage happens there too at a seemingly increasing rate.

There are also many underlining factors that could get people to the point of losing their composure. A stressful life that may include work worries, family issues, etc., insomnia or just a bad sleep the night before. Then compound that with running late, traffic frustrations (road rage) slow-moving lines at check-in, passport control and other people’s habits all add to people losing control.

Mental Health

We are not all the same so mental health issues should never be discounted. Anxiety, depression and other disorders could play a part in some people’s reactions. I also think people who have these issues would be on medication and would be less of a problem than someone who has a short temper from being frustrated or annoyed. So I don’t think there would be many irresponsible people in this group unless someone didn’t take their medication. If they’ve forgotten, then who knows what could happen. Hopefully they’ll have their medications with them and seek help if required.

Solution

I think many of us agree that an orderly and speedy process would alleviate some frustrations. It goes without saying that travellers need to approach air travel, and in particular transitting through airports, with a relaxed attitude. Making sure to give yourself more time. Always bear in mind and be prepared for things to go wrong. If you require assistance ask for it. Do not take it out on others. If there is bad behaviour or a security risk report it. Better to have a third party cool things down than get involved in arguments and getting hot under the collar.

Please don’t take out your rage on the airport staff. They are people too. So be courteous and understanding. If you think the situation isn’t being handled properly ask to see someone in a higher position, a manager, etc. There is a solution to all problems.

The amount of time one needs to wait until boarding, to sit in their seat and get all this process out of their heads can be a weight. It is important not to be affected by this and take it with you aboard. Plane rage can be even worse being confined in an enclosed cabin. So let’s keep it on the ground and sorted out quickly and peacefully.

Anger Management

This is a subject I won’t get into but there are solutions. If you do have a problem controlling your anger it is best to seek professional help. Here are two links…

healthdirect is an Australian government-funded service, that provides quality, approved free health information and advice.

Australian Psychological Society has resources for various conditions including anger and a directory of psychologists if required.

Note: I wrote this without taking into consideration COVID-19 and the extra steps before and while at the aiport. All I can say is, it will surely add more frustration. I already did a quick mention in the Changi Airport article where I commented on a video released by Changi Airport. In that video it showed one person, but in reality when there will be others, tens or hundreds of people the situation becomes more complicated.

Since writing this last piece in the Note, things are slowly getting back to some normality in airports and on planes. Many mandates and restrictions are being dropped.