Why do people touch the airplane before boarding?

Touching the Airplane: A Curious Pre-Boarding Ritual

As passengers prepare to board their aircraft, a peculiar ritual can be observed: the gentle touch of fingers upon the airplane’s exterior. This seemingly innocuous gesture holds a surprising depth of meaning, reflecting a myriad of emotions and beliefs.

Anxiety and Reassurance

For some, touching the airplane serves as a calming mechanism. The cold, metallic surface provides a tangible connection to the colossal machine that will carry them through the air. By physically interacting with the aircraft, anxious travelers seek reassurance and a sense of control over their imminent journey.

Greetings and Good Luck

Others interpret the airplane touch as a symbolic greeting. It is a subtle acknowledgment of the impending adventure, a silent whisper of “hello” to the vessel that will transport them to new destinations. Some believe that touching the airplane for good luck ensures a smooth and safe flight.

Superstition and Tradition

Superstitions often play a role in aviation rituals. For some passengers, touching the airplane is a way to appease the gods or to ward off bad luck. Others may view it as a nod to a long-held tradition, passed down from generations of travelers.

Personal Connections

Beyond superstition and symbolism, the act of touching the airplane can also evoke personal connections. For frequent flyers, it may be a way to acknowledge the familiar journey that lies ahead. For those traveling with loved ones, it can be a moment of shared anticipation and excitement.

A Multifaceted Meaning

The reasons for touching the airplane before boarding are as varied and personal as the passengers themselves. It can be a calming gesture, a symbolic greeting, a nod to superstition, or a simple expression of anticipation. Whatever the motivation, this curious ritual adds a touch of humanity to the otherwise mechanical process of air travel.

Whether driven by anxiety, tradition, or personal connection, the airplane touch serves as a reminder that even in the realm of modern aviation, the human element remains an integral part of the journey. It is a small, yet meaningful, expression of the hopes, fears, and expectations that accompany every take-off.