Passengers relax in comfortable airline seats; a man uses a tablet while a woman next to him rests with her eyes closed.

10 Things To NOT Do On Your Next Flight

Published

Let’s chat about something we all face but we rarely talk; about plane etiquette. You know, those little do’s and don’ts that can make or break our flying experience. From the battle over armrests to the great seat recline debate, I will give you the lowdown on 10 simple yet crucial tips for keeping the peace at 30,000 feet. So, grab your passport, and let’s dive into the art of flying like a pro!”

1. Reclining Your Seat Suddenly

Passengers in an airplane cabin, with a woman in a grey dress reclining her seat, wearing a sleep mask. A man in a blue shirt and striped tie smiles as he looks at her, and other passengers are seen in the background relaxing.

Likely the most debated subject about flying. The seat recline. Quickly reclining your seat can be disruptive or even harmful to the person sitting behind you. It’s courteous to recline slowly and check behind you first.

2. Occupying the Armrests

A close-up of a woman's armrest use in an airplane cabin. She's wearing a white blouse and has a black handbag on her lap, with the seat belt fastened. The focus is on personal space and comfort during the flight.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

On flights, especially in economy class, space is limited. Hogging the armrests can make the journey uncomfortable for your seatmates. The unspoken rule is that the person occupying the middle seat should get the armrests.

3. Loud Talking or Music

A man dressed in a formal blue suit is working on his laptop in a comfortable private jet cabin. He is holding a phone to his ear, smiling, and appears engaged in a conversation.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Speaking loudly, playing music without headphones, or having loud conversations on the phone can be very disturbing to fellow passengers who might be trying to sleep or relax. The same thing goes for watching movies and playing games.

4. Ignoring the Flight Attendants’ Instructions

A flight attendant in a red and white uniform demonstrates the use of a seat belt to attentive passengers. The cabin has blue seats and the atmosphere is that of a standard commercial airline pre-flight safety briefing.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Not following the safety instructions or ignoring the flight attendants when they ask you to stow your tray table or fasten your seatbelt is not only rude but also a safety issue.

5. Getting Up Frequently in a Window Seat

A man in an orange sweater sits by the window on an airplane, gazing outside at the bright light. He appears calm and contemplative, enjoying his personal space.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

If you’re in a window seat, frequent trips to the bathroom or to stretch can disturb your seatmates, especially on long flights or when they’re asleep.

6. Bringing Strong-Smelling Food

A young woman with wide eyes and an excited expression is holding a hamburger in one hand and a small red packet of fries in the other. She is dressed in a white dress with a sheer overlay and seems thrilled about her meal.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Eating foods with strong odors can be unpleasant for those around you in the confined space of an airplane cabin. Yes, we are looking at you, hard-boiled eggs, broccoli, and heavily fried food.

7. Going Barefoot

Childs Bare feet on plane seat back.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Why do people take their shoes off and put their bare feet up on the seats? Not only is it disgusting because of how filthy the surfaces are, but nobody wants to see your feet.

8. Not Controlling Children

A young girl with blonde hair, wearing a pink and yellow dress, sits in an airplane seat, smiling and looking out the window. She is holding a teddy bear and appears to be enjoying her flight.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

It’s important to keep an eye on children, ensuring they’re not kicking seats, running in the aisles, or being excessively loud, as this can disrupt other passengers’ comfort.

9. Standing in the Aisle for Too Long

A view down the aisle of a commercial airplane, showing passengers seated in economy class. Overhead bins are closed, and the cabin is brightly lit. Some passengers are looking at their devices, while others are resting
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Blocking the aisle for extended periods, especially during boarding or deplaning, can cause delays and inconvenience for others. This is my #1 pet peeve! If you are at the back of the plane, don’t rush up to the front and block the aisle for everyone trying to get off. Wait your turn.

10. Not Respecting Personal Space

Passengers in a row on an airplane, with a focus on a woman in the foreground. She is wearing glasses and resting her head against the seat, possibly asleep. The cabin has blue seats and is partially lit.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

This includes things like putting your feet up on someone else’s seat, encroaching on their seating area, or not maintaining good hygiene, which can all be very uncomfortable for those seated near you.

Chantelle Kincy

Author: Chantelle Kincy

Title: Travel Writer

Expertise: Traveling, Hiking, Kayaking, Itinerary Planning

Chantelle Kincy founded and created Flannels or FlipFlops. She combines her writer and travel advisor expertise in this unique space to inspire wanderlust and offer practical travel insights. With countless hours of education in the travel niche, specialty certificates in cruise travel, and a passion for exploring the grandeur of National Parks, Chantelle brings a wealth of experience to her readers.

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2 Comments

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