Don’t Be That Passenger: 8 Habits That Drive Everyone Crazy On Planes
Travelling by air is one of the fastest ways to cross continents and reach dream destinations — but it can also test everyone’s patience when personal space, smells, and sounds collide in a metal tube thousands of feet above ground.
Although we all have good intentions, there are some in-flight habits that could transform the cabin into a battlefield of sighs, side-eyes and under the breath shuffling.
Below are eight habits to avoid – and how to be the type of passenger that everyone would love to sit next to..
1. Treating the Seat in Front Like a Footrest
We get it, airplane legroom is basically nonexistent, and it’s tempting to stretch out in creative ways. However, putting your feet on the seat in front of you, and especially on the headrest, is not simply unsanitary. This is a great violation of one’s personal space.
Why it’s bad: You might dirty the seat, give a person a hygiene reason to be concerned, or make somebody really uncomfortable. And what if you’re barefoot? Well, that’s a whole new no-no altogether.
What to do instead: Make good use of the space available to you. Take periodical walks in the aisles when the seatbelt sign is off, do easy seated stretching, and carry a small footrest cushion if additional support is required.
2. Clapping When the Plane Lands
A safe landing is always a good thing however breaking out in applause when the wheels touch the runway is not universally welcomed. Although clapping when the plan lands is perceived as a gesture of gratitude by some cultures, it is sometimes no more than an annoying intrusion for the rest of the passengers, particularly on red-eye/early morning flights.
Why it’s problematic: Loud clapping can disturb the other passengers, especially children / elderly flyers, and ruin the tranquil silence of a lengthy flight. In addition, this is usually not even heard by pilots.
A better approach: Give the flight crew a kind word or a sincere thank you as you alight. Such an appreciation gets much further than a sudden golf clap.
3. Overstuffing the Overhead Bins
As airlines charge more for checking in luggage, more people carry on bulging carry-ons on the plane, but forcing giant bags into overheads bins not only takes up more than your share of space, it holds up boarding and irritates other travelers.
Why it’s frustrating: You may make a person store their rows of bags elsewhere, which makes disembarking a slower and more stressful process for them. It particularly difficult to travel with the elderly or for a parent with children and bags.
What to do instead: Bring carry-ons that fit within airline size limits. Use under-seat space to store small luggage like laptops or purses and avoid packing unnecessary things for the sake of not paying the baggage fee.
4. Fighting Over the Window Shade
A window seat comes with window privileges, doesn’t it? Sort of. Although technically, it is subjective to the person occupying that seat, being inconsiderate over the window shade can make or ruin the comfort of the whole row, especially on long-haul or overnight flights..
Why it’s divisive: Bright sunlight can disturb someone trying to nap or cause glare on screens. On the flip side, some people feel anxious if they can’t see outside during turbulence or takeoff.
What to do instead: If you are near the window, chat with your rowmate*s. Ask whether they want it up or down and compromise with something like cracking it a little bit for light but not opened up. Even small amounts of communication can take one a long way.
5. Taking Off Shoes (and Especially Socks)
Long flights can make anyone feel the need to relax. And some may do so by taking off their shoes, which might seem like a harmless thing to do. But when your feet start to invade shared space — especially bare — things can get uncomfortable fast.
Why it’s gross: Airplane cabins are small spaces with recycled air. Disgusting smell from feet or toenails that protrude out can make even the calmest neighbor squirm in their hand-made cushions. And a barefoot trip to the bathroom? That’s even worse.
What to do instead: If you must remove your shoes then, wear clean socks or carry slipper socks that are made for travel. And please, do not stick your feet into my space. Don’t put them on armrests, tray tables or worst still, on someone else’s seat.
6. Holding Loud Conversations or Watching Videos Without Headphones
Everyone’s excited to catch up, binge a series, or laugh at TikTok’s — but blasting audio for the whole cabin to hear is a surefire way to become “that passenger.”
Why it’s inconsiderate: The cabin is a shared space, and not everyone wants to listen to your movie or personal conversation at full volume. This can disturb people trying to sleep, work, or simply enjoy a quiet flight.
What to do instead: Use headphones — always. Keep conversations at a low volume, especially on early or late flights. Noise-canceling earbuds are a win-win: you’ll hear better, and your seatmates will thank you silently.
7. Reclining Without Warning
Yes, your seat reclines. No, that doesn’t mean you should use the full tilt the second the wheels leave the tarmac, especially if the person behind you has a laptop, a drink, or knees up against the tray table.
Why it’s a problem: A sudden recline can spill drinks, crack screens, and leave the person behind feeling trapped. It’s especially frustrating during meal times or on short-haul flights where space is already tight.
What to do instead: If you’re planning to recline, give a quick glance or a polite heads-up to the person behind you. Recline slowly and avoid doing so during meals. Small gestures go a long way in cramped quarters.
8. Getting Up Too Early Upon Landing
The plane just touched down and you’re already standing with your bag halfway out of the overhead bin. But the doors won’t open for several more minutes, and now you’re blocking the aisle and bumping people’s heads.
Why it’s chaotic: Early-standing forms bottlenecks, interferes with other people’s efforts to claim back their belongings, and irkses flight attendants that still have some post-landing work to do. In addition, it is a safety issue if the plane has to move again.
What to do instead: Remain seated until the seat-belt sign is off. Wait your turn when alighting and move-out in an efficient way without rushing ahead. It’s not a race – people are getting off the same plane.
To Wrap It Up
One doesn’t have to be perfect to be a great passenger – all it takes little self-awareness and politeness.
Remember: everybody is on the same flying machine hoping to arrive to their destination with a little dignity. In this way, these habits are not simply being polite – you are making the skies comfortable for all people.
