What Flight Attendants Secretly Wish You’d Stop Doing at the Airport

Everyone agrees that airports are stressful environments—for travelers and flight crews. While the focus of most passengers is to breeze through security and get to their gate on time, flight attendants tend to notice behaviors that slow things down, cause unnecessary chaos, or even make work more complex. A few minor adjustments to your airport habits can make the whole experience easier for everyone. Here’s what flight attendants wish travelers would stop doing—and what you can replace them with. 

1. Crowding the Boarding Gate Before Your Group is Called

There’s no need to crowd the gate as soon as pre-boarding starts. Flight attendants often see passengers blocking paths and delaying those who need extra time to board, like families with children or people with disabilities. Instead, wait for your group to be called. You’ll avoid backups, keep the gate agent happy, and enjoy a smoother boarding experience.

2. Asking Flight Attendants Non-Urgent Questions Before Takeoff

Flight attendants are busy during boarding: checking paperwork, checking safety equipment, conferring with the cockpit, and preparing the cabin. Although we are happy to help, asking about Wi-Fi, meals, and connecting gates before the plane is even in the air, takes away from a flight attendant's critical duties. Save those questions for when the seat belt sign is off, or check the airline app for basic flight information. 

3. Holding Up Security Lines by Being Unprepared

To save time in security lines it helps if everyone understands the process, but flight attendants routinely see delays caused by passengers forgetting to remove liquids, laptops, or belts until the very last minute. Before you get to the conveyor belt, have everything out (laptop, liquids in a clear bag, shoes, and jacket off). If you are not sure of the TSA rules, you could do some online research while in line. A little effort and preparation helps everyone keep moving.

4. Over-packing Carry-Ons That Don’t Fit

Nothing slows down boarding like passengers struggling to cram an overstuffed bag into the overhead compartment. Flight attendants are regularly forced to gate-check bags that clearly do not fit, adding time to the departure. Before you leave, check your airline’s carry-on size limits and test your bag at home. If it’s a tight fit, consider checking it and opt for lightweight luggage; other passengers (and crew) will appreciate your consideration. 

5. Ignoring Crew Instructions During Boarding

Flight attendants may routinely have to remind passengers to stow bags promptly, stay seated, or to keep the aisles clear, but not everyone listens. When assigned tasks or boarding orders are given by crew members, it’s not being overly assertive – they are doing what they can to ensure an on-time departure. If you follow a command the first time, it helps everyone achieve a successful boarding process.

6. Taking Forever in the Lavatory During Busy Times

We all get it! You might need to use the restroom, but staying in there when the seatbelt sign is on, or in the middle of meal service creates needless queues and delays. Remember flight attendants have carts to push and time limits with serving to get everyone served. If you need to go when service is at its peak, make it quick and please never use the lavatory for a clothing change or even a style or skincare routine mid-flight! 

7. Leaving Trash in Seat Pockets or on the Floor

Flight attendants are not your personal cleaner upper! Finding a heap of used tissues or a bunch of empty food wrappers, or half-filled drink cups stuffed in the seat pocket (or worse, on the floor) just makes it difficult for the attendants during a quick turn-around. A little awareness can go a long way! Just offer your trash to the crew during the meal collection, or throw it in the bins during your exit; this helps to keep the cabin tidy and clean for the next passengers. 

8. Standing Up Immediately After Landing

As soon as your plane lands, some passengers will leap up, fling open overhead bins, crowd the aisle, and act like the seat belt sign isn't still illuminated. Not only does that frustrate flight attendants (who are still on the plane ensuring a safe arrival for all), but it also slows down the entire deplaning process. If you want to deplane as quickly as possible, stay firmly in your seat until your row is called. 

9. Playing Media Out Loud Without Headphones

Nobody wants to hear your podcast, movie, or video call on a flight. Flight attendants often have to remind passengers to use headphones, which can be uncomfortable for all involved. Carry earbuds or headphones with you at all times, keep the peace (and others from giving you the side-eye) even if you believe your volume is low, please respect others around you and use earphones only.

10. Getting Impatient with Delays or Changes

Flight attendants don’t control weather, mechanical issues, or air traffic—but often face passenger frustration. Delays are stressful, but venting at the crew only adds tension. If your flight’s delayed or canceled, stay calm and polite when seeking help. Better yet, check re-booking options on the airline’s app to avoid frustration.

Small Changes Make a Big Difference

Air travel is a collective experience, and a little thoughtfulness helps reduce frustration. By following the suggestions above, you’ll make the journey better for yourself, fellow passengers, and the hardworking crew. Next time you fly, remember—your attitude and behavior can lead to a smoother, more pleasant trip for everyone.

Also read: I Never Travel Without These Now—The Products That Changed Everything.