There’s nothing quite like  jetting off to a thrilling destination. Nevertheless, many travellers unfortunately experience anxiety whilst flying, alongside cramped legroom or hours of being seated which can prove rather uncomfortable. Therefore, countless passengers do whatever they can to ensure a peaceful journey – from streaming films, engaging in games, reading books, or gazing at the scenery through the aircraft window. However, there’s absolutely nothing more frustrating than just as you’ve got comfortable, somebody chooses to push back their seat directly in front of you.

One gentleman became so exasperated during a recent flight that he chose to take control of the situation himself – and some observers have described it as “iconic”.

The traveller, who was positioned in the middle seat, placed his hands firmly on the seats ahead whilst viewing a film to prevent the passengers occupying them from reclining backwards.

In a video footage shared on TikTok, it’s apparent the man maintains his position to guarantee he doesn’t feel crushed in his seat.

@heyimgazz commented: “This guy say like this for eight hours on an overnight flight to stop people in front reclining.” The poster continued: “Can we ban people like this please?”.

Viewers flocked to respond – with many remaining split over whether the gentleman’s conduct was acceptable or not.

One remarked: “This is ridiculous, if people don’t want people to recline to this point they should just go in business class.” A third commented: “Reclining is OK and you don’t need permission from anybody. Just be mindful and straighten up for meal times.

“Oh please, seats are made to recline,” another added. One supporter of seat reclining argued: “I don’t see an issue in reclining your seat, it’s a feature added by airlines for a reason. Don’t like how much room you have? Pay for extra leg room, it’s simple. people have the rights to recline their seat id rather that then somebody putting their legs up against the back of my seat.”

Another expressed their outrage after viewing the footage, commenting: “Would’ve called the cabin crew. There’s a reason that the seats are allowed to recline the only time that seats should not be reclined as during food service.”

However, others maintain that seat reclining ought to be prohibited entirely.

One person declared: “He’s an icon. Reclining is so disrespectful and if you have longer legs the person who does it will literally jam into your joints and put you in horrible pain. I will never understand how people do it, disgusting.”

Another posted: “Absolutely valid many people saying they have the right to recline their seats, well he paid for his seat too and he has the right to do what he’s doing also.”

One additional commenter stated: “Space is already an absolute premium, and then you’re gonna recline your seat which stops me being able to use my table or properly see my screen? Hell no! Fully support him.”

Another contributor remarked: “To me, reclining your seat on a plane is just inconsiderate and disrespectful. I feel like it should only be okay during genuine ‘sleep hours’ with the lights dimmed.”