Getting Too Comfortable on a Flight Could Get You Booted from the Plane

For many travelers, long flights can be uncomfortable, and finding ways to relax during the journey is essential. However, there’s a growing number of cases where passengers getting too comfortable on a flight has led to unexpected consequences — including being asked to leave the plane. From kicking off shoes to engaging in behavior that violates airline policies, there are a few ways you can overstep the boundaries of onboard comfort and end up booted from your flight.

In-flight etiquette is vital, especially as airline crews strive to maintain a balance between passengers’ comfort and safety. So, where’s the line between relaxing and risking your seat? Let’s explore some common behaviors that could get you in trouble and how to avoid them.

Disregarding Dress Codes

While many airlines don’t have strict dress codes, there’s still an expectation that passengers dress appropriately. In recent years, there have been instances where passengers were removed from flights due to what airlines deemed “inappropriate attire.” This can range from overly revealing clothing to offensive slogans or symbols on apparel.

How to avoid it: Choose outfits that are comfortable but respectful of public spaces. If you’re wearing something questionable or offensive, even as a form of expression, it might be better to save it for after you land.

Bare Feet: Too Casual for Comfort

One of the most common ways passengers try to get comfortable is by removing their shoes. While it’s generally acceptable to take off your shoes during a flight, walking around the cabin with bare feet is often seen as unsanitary and inconsiderate. Some passengers even prop their feet up on the seat in front of them, which can cause conflicts with nearby travelers.

How to avoid it: If you need to remove your shoes, consider bringing a pair of clean socks or travel slippers. Keep your feet off neighboring seats or walls, and be mindful of the shared space. Respecting basic hygiene can prevent unwanted attention from flight attendants.

Inappropriate Reclining Behavior

Seat reclining has long been a source of tension on planes. While it’s perfectly within your right to recline your seat, doing so abruptly or excessively—especially during meal service or on shorter flights—can cause discomfort for the passenger behind you. In some cases, disputes over seat reclining have escalated into full-blown confrontations, occasionally leading to one of the parties being asked to leave the plane.

How to avoid it: Use your reclining feature with consideration. Check behind you before reclining, and don’t use it during mealtimes or when the passenger behind you is working. Small gestures of courtesy go a long way in avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Using Personal Devices Inappropriately

In-flight entertainment is a blessing on long flights, but some passengers can overstep by using their personal devices in ways that disturb others. This could include playing videos or music without headphones, taking loud phone calls before takeoff, or using large devices that encroach on another passenger’s space. Airlines and fellow passengers appreciate quiet, respectful device use, especially during the quieter parts of the flight.

How to avoid it: Always use headphones when watching movies or listening to music. Be conscious of screen brightness and device size, and keep phone conversations to a minimum until the flight crew instructs passengers to turn on airplane mode.

Excessive Consumption of Alcohol

Many airlines offer alcohol to passengers, but overconsumption can quickly become a problem. Passengers who have too much to drink often become disruptive, engage in arguments, or fail to comply with flight attendants’ instructions. Alcohol-related incidents are one of the most common reasons passengers are removed from planes.

How to avoid it: It’s fine to enjoy a drink or two, but know your limits. Stay hydrated, eat food, and pace yourself. If a flight attendant refuses to serve you alcohol, respect their decision.

Public Displays of Affection (PDA)

While it’s perfectly acceptable to hold hands or rest your head on a loved one’s shoulder, excessive displays of affection can make fellow passengers uncomfortable. In extreme cases, couples have been removed from flights for inappropriate behavior that crosses the line into indecency.

How to avoid it: Keep displays of affection moderate and appropriate for a public setting. A flight is not the place for overly intimate behavior, and respecting other passengers’ personal space is key.

Ignoring Flight Crew Instructions

Perhaps the quickest way to get removed from a flight is by failing to comply with the flight crew’s instructions. This can range from not fastening your seatbelt when told, refusing to store your bag properly, to ignoring safety demonstrations. Flight attendants are responsible for the safety of everyone on board, and noncompliance can disrupt the entire flight.

How to avoid it: Listen carefully to instructions given by flight attendants and comply promptly. If you have any questions or concerns about a particular instruction, ask politely rather than disregarding it.

Inappropriate Use of the Lavatory

While it’s important to stay comfortable, treating the airplane lavatory like your personal bathroom at home is a no-go. Some passengers spend excessive time in the lavatory, use it during turbulence, or even attempt to do things like shave or change clothes in a confined space. This can delay others and even pose safety risks.

How to avoid it: Use the lavatory efficiently and be mindful of other passengers waiting. Avoid going during turbulence or when seatbelt signs are on. If you need to freshen up, do so quickly and be respectful of time.

Engaging in Inappropriate Conversations

Getting comfortable sometimes means striking up conversations with seatmates. While this is usually fine, conversations that touch on sensitive, inappropriate, or controversial topics can create tension in the small confines of an airplane. Worse, making unwanted advances or crossing personal boundaries can quickly get you reported to the crew.

How to avoid it: Engage in light and neutral conversation if you want to talk to your seatmate, but always gauge their interest. If they seem uncomfortable or uninterested, respect their space.

Comfort during a flight is important, but it’s equally important to strike a balance between relaxation and respect for those around you. When passengers disregard in-flight etiquette, the consequences can range from a warning to being asked to leave the plane.

To ensure a smooth journey, be mindful of your surroundings, follow the rules, and keep comfort within the bounds of common courtesy. That way, your journey will be pleasant for you—and for everyone else on board.