Air travel can be stressful enough without accidentally stepping on toes—literally or figuratively! While most of us try to be polite and considerate when flying, there are a few surprisingly common habits that can rub flight attendants and fellow passengers the wrong way.
If you’re planning a trip soon, it’s worth brushing up on your in-flight etiquette to ensure a smoother journey for everyone.
Frequent flyer and travel expert Pollyann recently took to Instagram to highlight some of the most common, yet overlooked, faux pas passengers make during boarding. Her advice? There are some big no-nos you might not even realise you’re guilty of.
1. Asking for Water (or Anything Else) Right Away
It’s tempting to ask for a glass of water as soon as you step on board, especially if you’ve been waiting in a long queue or rushing through the airport. However, frequent traveller Pollyann, who shares travel tips on Instagram, warns that this is actually considered quite rude.
During boarding, flight attendants are laser-focused on safety checks and preparing the cabin—not on serving drinks just yet.
So, if you’re parched, it’s best to wait until the plane is in the air and the crew has started their service. Not only does this help the crew stay on schedule, but it also ensures everyone’s safety.
2. Handing Over Your Rubbish During Boarding
Another common faux pas is trying to hand your rubbish—like coffee cups, snack wrappers, or receipts—to flight attendants as you settle into your seat. While it might seem helpful to get rid of your rubbish early, it actually disrupts the boarding process.
As Pollyann explains, ‘They aren’t gloved up, [rubbish] bins aren’t set up, and it interrupts the boarding process.’
The best time to dispose of rubbish is during the designated rubbish collection rounds, usually after a meal or snack service. Until then, keep your items tucked away in your seat pocket or bag.
3. Being Glued to Your Phone
We all love to check messages or snap a quick selfie as we board, but etiquette expert Diane Gottsman, author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life, says it’s best to put your phone away until you’re seated.
Trying to juggle your carry-on, a tote, and your phone can slow down the boarding process and hold up the line behind you.
Instead, focus on getting to your seat, stowing your bags, and settling in quickly. You’ll have plenty of time to catch up on your messages once you’re comfortable.
4. Not Being Ready for Meal Service
Once you’re in the air, there’s another small but significant way to show respect for the cabin crew: be ready when they come around with food and drinks.
Flight attendant Yana Biryukova, who shares tips on social media, suggests taking off your headphones, pausing your movie, and knowing your order before the trolley arrives. This helps the crew serve everyone efficiently and keeps the aisle moving.
And, as a bonus tip: try not to be mid-bite or chewing when it’s your turn to order. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way in making the crew’s job easier.
5. Other Boarding Blunders to Avoid
While the above are some of the most common, here are a few more things to keep in mind:
- Blocking the Aisle: Once you reach your row, step into your seat to let others pass, especially if you need extra time to organise your belongings.
- Overhead Bin Battles: Place your bag in the bin above your seat if possible, and be mindful not to take up more space than you need.
- Ignoring Crew Instructions: Listen carefully to announcements and instructions from the crew—they’re there for your safety and comfort.
Why Good Etiquette Matters
A little courtesy goes a long way, especially in the close quarters of an aircraft. Not only does it make the journey more pleasant for everyone, but it also helps the crew do their jobs efficiently and safely. Remember, flight attendants are there first and foremost for your safety, not just to serve snacks and drinks.
Key takeaways
- Asking for water immediately upon boarding a plane is considered rude, as flight attendants are focused on safety checks rather than service at that time.
- Handing rubbish to cabin crew during boarding is inappropriate since they aren’t prepared for waste collection, and it disrupts their work.
- Using your phone and being distracted while boarding can slow down the process — it’s best to put your phone away until you’re settled in your seat.
- During meal service, it’s polite to take your headphones off, finish chewing, and know your order before the flight attendant arrives, so you don’t keep them waiting.
Have you ever witnessed (or accidentally committed) a boarding blunder? Do you have your own tips for making air travel smoother? We’d love to hear your stories and advice—share your thoughts in the comments below!
