The Rudest Airplane Passenger Behaviors, Ranked

We wish this were a myth. Unfortunately, it’s not. While flying with a baby is challenging, using the tray table—where people eat—as a changing station is a public health and etiquette disaster. Airplane bathrooms may be cramped, but they’re equipped with changing tables for a reason.

There’s no faster way to annoy your seatmates than blasting your music or game soundtrack without headphones. Airplanes are shared spaces, so use your earbuds or opt for silence.

It’s understandable if your seat gets bumped once or twice—those spaces are cramped—but letting your child repeatedly kick the seat in front of them for fun? That’s just plain inconsiderate. The kid may not know any better, but the parent sure does, so stop this bad behaviour as soon as it starts.

Whether it’s barefoot toes creeping between headrests or socked feet propped up like you’re at home, this behavior is as selfish as it is gross. Respect your fellow passengers’ personal space—and their right not to have your feet anywhere near it.

Seat reclining is one of the great airplane etiquette debates, but doing it without a glance behind you, especially during mealtime, is objectively rude. The person behind you might have a drink on their tray or be working on a laptop. A quick check and a slow, gentle recline (rather than a violent slamming) is the polite way to put your seat back.

We understand that airplane seats can be challenging to get out of, but there’s no excuse for aggressively yanking on the seat in front of you to lift yourself up. This jarring move disrupts the person in front of you and can wake sleeping passengers. Use your own armrests if you need assistance standing.

Yes, airplane seats are small—but that doesn’t give you the right to sprawl into your neighbor’s space. Hogging the armrest, letting your elbows drift over the divider, or stretching your legs so far they encroach on multiple rows may seem subtle, but it’s incredibly frustrating. The seats are cramped enough already—don’t make them feel even smaller for the person beside you.

That spicy tuna wrap or egg salad sandwich may taste great, but it’s a strong smell for everyone around you to inhale for the next few hours. Save the aromatic meals for after you land and pack something that won’t stink up the cabin.

Stretching on long flights is smart. Turning the aisle into your personal yoga studio? Not so much. We’ve seen downward dogs between carts and warrior poses during beverage service. If you need to stretch, keep it brief, discreet, and out of the crew’s way.

A little small talk is fine. But if your seatmate gives one-word answers, pops in headphones, or closes their eyes, take the hint and let the conversation end.