Air Travel Etiquette: 8 Things to NEVER Do on a Plane, According to Flight Attendants

The Unwritten Rules of the Sky: 8 Mistakes to Avoid on Your Next Flight

Air travel, while exciting, often becomes a cramped and exhausting experience. Because of this stress, many passengers forget basic etiquette, making the journey difficult for both fellow travelers and the crew. Experienced flight attendants and travel experts emphasize that maintaining good manners is more crucial than ever when you're 30,000 feet in the air.

Here are eight key behaviors to avoid on a plane, as advised by industry professionals:

1. Never Touch a Flight Attendant to Get Attention

As veteran flight attendant Aiden advises, "Do not touch us, under any circumstance." Whether the crew is serving meals, preparing drinks, or collecting trash, they can hear you. A simple verbal call will get their attention. Remember, touching a stranger without permission is universally considered impolite.

2. Don't Ask to Use the Lavatory Immediately After Boarding

Rushing to the restroom the moment you board can significantly delay the entire boarding process. Aiden explains that the crew has critical, time-sensitive duties during this phase: "We are monitoring overhead bin space, identifying passengers who can assist in an emergency, and communicating with the flight deck and ground teams." Use the terminal restroom before you get on the plane.

3. Keep Your Limbs Out of the Aisle

While stretching is important during a long flight, letting your arms, legs, or feet sprawl into the aisle is dangerous and inconsiderate. This creates a serious tripping hazard for passengers and a major obstacle for flight attendants who are pushing heavy service carts or monitoring the cabin.

4. Don't Rush to the Front During Deplaning

Attempting to jump ahead and be the first off the plane the moment it reaches the gate is disrespectful to other passengers. "Everyone is in a hurry, but practice patience," says Aiden. Wait your turn, and deplane in an orderly fashion from front to back.

5. Do Not Question or Debate Crew Instructions

Challenging a flight crew's instructions is a serious mistake. Aiden stresses, "We undergo five to eight weeks of intensive training. We are taught how to open doors, perform CPR, assist with childbirth, and extinguish fires. We do more than just serve beverages." Crew instructions are based on safety protocols and must be followed without argument.

6. Never Put Your Feet on Another Passenger's Armrest

Air travel expert Jenny Dryzen calls seeing someone's bare toes poking over the back of the armrest a "terrifying sight." While the plane can be uncomfortable for everyone, occupying another person’s space with your feet is an absolute breach of etiquette.

7. Keep Your Shoes and Socks On

Airplane floors are notoriously unsanitary and covered in germs. Dryzen warns, "We don't want to see your feet, and you shouldn't risk infection." Always keep your shoes and socks on to maintain hygiene and respect your fellow passengers.

8. Recline Your Seat with Care

Reclining your seat is acceptable, but you must do it slowly and check behind you first. Ensure the passenger behind you doesn't have a meal tray or a laptop positioned on their tray table. If possible, a quick tap on their shoulder to give them a heads-up is the polite thing to do.

By adhering to these eight rules, you demonstrate courtesy and help ensure that the flight is comfortable, safe, and pleasant for everyone on board, including yourself.