Flying can be a stressful experience. From packing to getting to the airport, to getting through TSA, to boarding one’s flight, it can leave a traveler frazzled. However, that doesn’t give a passenger carte blanche to act however they want.

There are certain on-flight behaviors — some against the full rules, some against “unofficial” rules — that flight attendants will always side-eye.

Not Following Lithium Ion Battery Rules

In recent years, few issues regarding in-flight safety have been more worrying than issues presented by lithium-ion batteries, such as those used in portable phone chargers. In response to these growing concerns, the FAA has changed the rules regarding their use on planes. Non-housed lithium-ion batteries like phone chargers can NOT be stored in checked luggage, and can only be carried in carry-on bags.

The FAA specifically states, “Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, all spare lithium batteries and power banks must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin.” Hence why flight attendants are keeping a closer eye on passengers’ batteries and their usage.

Playing Electronic Devices Without Headphones

As flight attendants — and other passengers, or anyone who has taken any form of public transportation in recent years — will tell you, headphones exist for a reason. They have become a travel essential in recent years, as the vast majority of flyers plan to watch movies or listen to music on devices like smartphones and laptops.

So while your taste in music, streaming shows, or podcasts is probably great, other passengers don’t want to hear it, and flight attendants don’t want to have to deal with noise complaints. 

Eating Smelly Leftovers On Board

Airports these days offer a litany of food options after you get through security, so it can be very easy to pick up a meal to bring on your flight with you. Overall, that’s a good thing. However, keep in mind that planes are generally small, somewhat cramped enclosed spaces. 

So, be wary of what kind of food you decide to unleash on your flight attendants and fellow passengers.

Talking During the Safety Demonstration

It is essential to pay attention during the safety demonstration, regardless of whether it is your first or 100th time flying. Not only is it nice to be respectful to the flight attendants, but each plane has different safety features, so it is important to listen up because knowing the proper procedures for the aircraft you’re flying on may quite literally save your life. 

Next time you’re boarding a flight, don’t engage in any of these behaviors, lest you want to feel (arguably rightfully) judged by your flight attendant. Stay tuned to DFB for more on flight etiquette.

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