We were honored when Jeff Hoyt commented on our post directing people to his podcasts. We hope he continues to entertain us with podcasts relevant to our subject matter(we’ve already referred to him twice).
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He inquired about the Knee Defender, a device designed to stop the seatback in front of you from reclining. It retails on the Knee Defender site for $14.95.
Now, we think the idea is sound…but seems filled with potential peril. Imagine that you are a person using this useful device, and the person in front of you does not take kindly to your usage. He or she may opt to fight with you, possibly involving the flight attendant, who may order you to cease using the device, or other reprisals…
As the Washington Post reports, airlines are not thrilled with the device. Flight Attendants, quite logically, do not want to be put into the delicate position of mediating conflicts that are bound to arise between recliners and reclinees. The FAA has noted that the devices are not against the rules as long as they aren’t used during takeoff, taxiing, or landing.
With tensions high, passenger disruptions can and have caused flights to be diverted to another airport. We tend to recommend erring on the side of caution and avoiding the conflict.
