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How to be a man

GQ Rules for modern men: A guide to air travel

We help you navigate the world with style and dignity. Don't check in until you've read this

Our guide to air travel etiquette is requisite reading for the ambitious, would-be modern gentleman. Look and act the part as you scale the ladders of success, and to a cruising altitude of 36,000 feet.

Air Travel

Never wear the complimentary "sleep suits". Dress as you wish to be found in the wreckage.

You're not allowed to work in first class and you aren't allowed to hold impromptu meetings in business (no, the galley is not an acceptable meeting place either). If you're in economy, do whatever it takes to get to the other side.

Put your phone in flight safe mode. Yes, we know you can send off an email as you're taking off and the plane won't fall out of the sky, but just play along.

Read more: What you need to know about buying a private jet

There's always one moron who insists on keeping the window blind open during a night flight, forcing everyone in a three row radius to wake up at the first hint of sunlight. If you've not noticed that moron, you are that moron.

Even if you can cut through your jet lag with a bread knife, sleeping across three chairs in the business lounge is completely unacceptable.

Instagram wing shots. Stop it. You're a grown-up.

The complimentary glass of champagne and a gin and tonic mid-way through is your limit. Unless you're on holiday, when an 8am sharpener is perfectly acceptable.

Hell hath no fury like the American immigration official. Play tough at your peril.

Men who display frequent flyer membership cards outside an airport or aircraft. You are the absolute worst.

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