A flight attendant has shared the worst things that passengers can do on a plane – including the ultimate worst habit to have while travelling abroad.
The cabin crew member – who has worked for British Airways for seven years – spoke to holiday provider Ocean Florida about the worst things that passengers have done while they have been travelling.
For this flight attendant, the absolute worst thing someone could on a plane is get their bare feet out.
The cabin crew member said: “My most hated habit is when passengers get their bare feet out on the plane.
“Not only is it unpleasant for other travellers and attendants nearby but it’s also extremely unhygienic. While cabins are cleaned before every flight, there’s rarely enough time to disinfect and deep clean floors and bathrooms.
“We’d never advise moving throughout the aircraft barefoot or just wearing socks – you never know what you might be walking on – especially in the bathroom.”
Cabin crew might not always have time to deep clean the plane between flights so passengers are taking a risk if they’re walking around barefoot.
Abby Dunn, Marketing Manager at Ocean Florida, suggests that travellers bring a pair of slippers for long-haul flights. Her advice was: “The best thing you can do to ensure maximum comfort and cleanliness while on long-haul journeys is to bring a pair of slippers which can be worn during the flight.
“You can even keep these to wear around your hotel or holiday villa while away, as well as on your return flight home.”
The flight attendant also warned travellers not to attempt to move into a higher seating class without proper authorisation, saying: “No, it won’t work; it’s just rude and you’re causing a scene.”
She expressed her appreciation for passengers who are polite and aware of flight etiquette, noting: “Travellers who have an awareness of flight etiquette make the job so much easier – for example keeping their designated area tidy, engaging in conversation and not being overly demanding. These habits make the journey much smoother for everyone.”
“As flight attendants, we also always appreciate passengers who are thoughtful enough to bring us small gifts or chocolate – and this will usually get you some preferential treatment while onboard.”
If you don’t want to bring a gift, the best thing to do is take a long nap. The cabin crew member confessed that the ideal passenger is “someone who sleeps the entire flight”.