The Real Reason People Touch the Airplane Before Boarding

the person performing the gesture may not even have a clear explanation for it.

4. It May Be Connected to a Personal Belief or Spiritual Practice

Travel can bring out strong emotions.

People may be excited about visiting family, beginning a new chapter in life, going on a long-awaited vacation, or returning home after months away.

For some, flying also brings feelings of vulnerability. They are placing their trust in an unfamiliar environment and a complex machine.

A brief touch before boarding may be connected to a personal prayer, a

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