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Specialists claim that flying tourist class is more safe than business class (though less comfortable, of course). Terrorists, as a rule, seize the first class area located near the cockpit and use it as a command post. Hence tourist class seats offer more protection since they are farther from the center of hostile action. Besides, the first class passengers are usually rich and well-known people, which are of great interest for terrorists. Therefore, during air travel try to mix with other passengers and, as much as possible, avoid luggage tags, dress and behavior that may distinguish you from them.

It is more preferable to fly a wide-body airliner, since it requires a lot of efforts to hijack a large aircraft, and a small group of terrorists, let alone a single hijacker, will hardly take a risk. Schedule direct flights if possible and avoid stops in high-risk airports or areas.

Try to minimize the time spent in the public area of an airport, which is a less protected area. Move quickly from the check-in counter to the secured areas. Observe the baggage claim area from a distance. Do not retrieve your bags until the crowd clears. On arrival, leave the airport as soon as possible.

No matter where you are in the terminal, identify objects suitable for cover in the event of attack. Pillars, luggage, large planters, counters and furniture can provide protection. Place yourself with your back to a wall or a pillar. Avoid areas where bombs can be placed ? unattended luggage, trash cans,
telephone boxes as well as windows (not to be wounded by flying splinters).

Observe what people are carrying. Note behavior not consistent with that of others in the area. Be aware of suspicious abandoned packages or briefcases. If a stranger asks you to carry any object onboard the aircraft, refuse. Be extremely observant of personal carry-on luggage. Thefts of briefcases are increasing at airports worldwide. Likewise, luggage not properly guarded provides an opportunity for a terrorist to place an unwanted object or device in your carry-on bag. Report suspicious activity to the airport security personnel.

Do not be curious. If a turmoil or security personnel activity begins, go in the opposite direction. If you hear shooting or explosion, dive for cover. Place arms and elbows next to your ribcage to protect your lungs, heart and chest. Cover your ears and head with your hands to protect neck, arteries, ears and skull. Do not run. If you must move, crawl and stay low to the ground, using available cover. If you see a grenade, seek immediate cover; lay flat on the floor, feet and knees tightly together, with soles toward the grenade. In this position, your shoes, feet and legs protect the rest of your body. Shrapnel will rise in a cone from the point of detonation, passing over your body. 

In the aircraft do not select aisle seats. Besides the fact that you will be constantly disturbed by passing passengers and service personnel, you will be close to the hijackers movements and in the case of the aircraft assault by a counterterrorist unit the main line of fire will pass along the aisle. Select a window seat; the most safe are those at an emergency exit (usually, over the wings) as they may provide an opportunity to escape.

Although hijacking is highly improbable, nevertheless, be ready for the situation. In this case the following rules of behavior are recommended:

• Remain alert and rational to try to understand the intentions of the hijackers. Think clearly and act responsibly. 
• Try not to distinguish yourself from other hostages. Do not have about yourself anything that could indicate your religious or political affiliation, business papers, erotic magazines, etc. 
• Be aware that all hijackers may not reveal themselves at the same time. A lone hijacker may be used to draw out security personnel for neutralization by other hijackers. Do not show heroism. Avoid hasty actions, because in case of failure they can threaten the safety of other passengers.
• Do not reveal the true purpose of the trip. Surrender your tourist passport in response to a general demand for identification.  
• Do not irritate terrorists. Try not to ask unnecessary questions, argue or complain.
• Do not draw attention to yourself with sudden body movements, verbal remarks or hostile looks. If you need to stand up or open your bag ask permission.
• Remain calm, be polite and cooperate with your captors. If permitted, read, sleep or write to occupy your time. At the same time do not make up to them; terrorists dislike those who grovel before them. 
• Keep necessary medicines ready at hand. Carry a card with your blood type and other necessary medical information.
• Do not abuse alcoholic drinks. They will weaken your mental perception and may create problems.
• Eat and drink everything you will be offered, and as much as possible. There is no knowing when you will be able to fortify yourself again. 
• Discreetly observe your captors and memorize their physical descriptions. Include names and nicknames, voice patterns and language distinctions, as well as clothing and unique physical characteristics. Observe how they are armed. 
• Try to reveal the terrorists, who act secretly, masking themselves under passengers. Be ready for rescue assault. Determine exits location. If you hear noise outside remain impassive and do not look through the window. With the first shots or explosions fall down on the floor or take shelter behind the seats. Remain still until told to rise or the shooting ceases. Do not rub your eyes if tear gas is applied. 
• Cooperate with all instructions from the rescuers or crew members. Do not move or leave without order. By order leave the aircraft quickly, without losing time on search of the carry-on luggage (bear in mind the possibility of fire on board). After rescue ask for medical and psychological help if necessary.

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