The correct etiquette might surprise you.

Or, do you?

Its 50/50 when it comes to the extra space, I have always believed.

Passengers on an airplane

Passengers fastening their seatbelt in an airplane.Credit:urbazon/Getty Images

We can both use the space for our drinks, right?

Did I inadvertently claim the tray table as solely for my own use by lowering it?

That shows a lot of situational awareness.

An empty row on an airplane

Am empty row on an airplane with clouds outside the window.Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

It’s not first-come, first-served.

First-come, first-served is absolutely not a rule, he said.

Be aware of safety considerations.

An airplane passenger in a middle seat

A passenger sitting in an airplane middle seat during a flight.Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

If you hit turbulence, that bag will fly in the air and potentially hit somebody.

Consider personal space.

Communication is key.

Anybody would respect that you didn’t just assume it was OK.

If language is a barrier, some gesturing and body language can be useful and polite.

you’re able to still make your intent clear, said Foster.

Enjoy the flight.