Air travel can be stressful, but following basic etiquette and safety rules ensures a smoother experience for everyone. Flight attendants and frequent flyers agree—some behaviors are just unacceptable at 30,000 feet. Here’s a detailed list of 30 things you should never do on a plane.
Etiquette & Common Courtesy
- Touch Flight Attendants Without Permission
Flight attendants are safety professionals, not your personal assistants. Never grab or tap them to get their attention—just say “Excuse me” politely. - Ask to Use the Lavatory Right After Boarding
The crew is busy preparing for takeoff, and blocking the aisle delays departure. Use the airport restroom before boarding. - Stretch Your Legs or Arms into the Aisle
Keeping the aisle clear is crucial for safety. If you need to stretch, do so without obstructing others. - Rush to the Front as Soon as the Plane Lands
Everyone wants to deplane quickly, but crowding the aisle before your row is called is rude and slows things down. - Recline Your Seat Without Warning
Sudden reclining can spill drinks, crush laptops, or disturb sleeping passengers. Glance back first and recline slowly. - Talk Loudly or Shout Across the Cabin
Plane cabins amplify noise. Keep conversations at a low volume so others can rest or work. - Hog the Armrests
The middle seat passenger gets priority for the shared armrests—don’t elbow them out of the way. - Put Your Feet on Someone Else’s Armrest
No one wants your toes near their face. Keep your feet on the floor or your own seat. - Go Barefoot or Wear Only Socks
Cabin floors are dirty, and no one wants to smell your feet. Wear shoes if you need to walk around. - Bring Strong-Smelling Food
Skip the tuna sandwich, durian, or fast food—strong odors linger in the confined cabin space. - Play Music or Videos Without Headphones
Even if you think it’s quiet, others can hear it. Always use earbuds or headphones. - Lean on a Stranger While Sleeping
If you nod off, avoid drooping onto your neighbor. Bring a neck pillow instead. - Clip Your Nails Mid-Flight
It’s unhygienic, and nail clippings can fly onto other passengers. Do it at home. - Do Loud Exercises in the Aisle
Stretching is fine, but jumping jacks or yoga poses disrupt others. Stick to subtle movements. - Douse Yourself in Strong Perfume or Cologne
Scents are amplified in recycled cabin air—what smells nice to you may trigger allergies for others.
Safety & Rule Violations
- Ignore Flight Attendant Instructions
They’re trained for emergencies. If they ask you to do something (like fasten your seatbelt), comply immediately. - Argue with the Crew Over Minor Issues
If there’s a problem, stay calm. Yelling or refusing to cooperate can get you banned from future flights. - Attempt to Open Emergency Exits
This isn’t a joke—tampering with doors mid-flight is illegal and endangers everyone. - Board Before Your Group is Called
Airlines board in a specific order for efficiency. Cutting in line causes chaos. - Let Kids Run Around Unsupervised
Turbulence can send them flying, and they might disturb other passengers. Keep them seated. - Sleep on the Tray Table
It’s covered in germs and not sturdy enough to support your head. Use a travel pillow instead. - Make Jokes About Bombs or Threats
Even as a “prank,” this can lead to arrest, fines, or being banned from flying. - Smoke or Vape Onboard
All airlines prohibit smoking, including e-cigarettes. Detectors will catch you, and penalties are severe. - Drink Too Much Alcohol
Altitude intensifies alcohol’s effects, increasing dehydration and the risk of disruptive behavior. - Chug Carbonated Drinks
The pressure changes causes bloating and discomfort. Stick to water or juice.
Health & Comfort Tips
- Stay Seated the Entire Flight
Sitting too long increases blood clot risks. Stand up and stretch occasionally (when safe). - Wear Contact Lenses for Long Flights
Dry cabin air can irritate your eyes. Switch to glasses or use rewetting drops. - Sleep If It’s Morning at Your Destination
Adjusting to the new time zone early helps reduce jet lag. Stay awake if it’s daytime there. - Overstuff the Overhead Bins
One carry-on and a personal item max. Don’t take up space meant for others. - Assume Everyone Loves Your Pet
If traveling with an animal, keep them calm and contained. Not all passengers are pet-friendly.
A little consideration goes a long way in making flights pleasant for everyone. Follow these tips, respect the crew, and enjoy a smoother journey! ✈️
