Airline rudeness controversy erupts over seat reclining opinions

People who travel by air frequently are mostly cordial and civil with each other during flights.

But occasionally, behavioral flashpoints arise among passengers. For example, requirements such as wearing masks — often when mixed with alcohol consumption — can fuel conflicts.

Related: Major U.S. airline makes pricing change its passengers will love

One other matter of air travel etiquette has been getting some attention recently: the question of whether or not it is rude to use the reclining function of an airplane seat.

The debate is most often the result of two people with competing interests. One person wants to recline for comfort, while the passenger behind them is suddenly cramped when the seat in front of them is reclined.

Sometimes, however, more than just comfort can be compromised. A Delta Air Lines  (DAL)  passenger once had his laptop broken by a reclining seat.

@Delta small note for the suggestion box, maybe have a little warning sign or someway to prevent my laptop from being destroyed when the person in front of me reclines their seat. pic.twitter.com/QHmphXiDhH— Pat “Beave” Cassidy