Air travel, no matter how exciting it sounds, can sometimes be more exhausting than the destination itself. But that’s no excuse to forget your manners. In fact, flying calls for even more courtesy and etiquette.

Experienced flight attendants and travel experts share eight things you should absolutely avoid doing on a plane:

1. Don’t touch the flight attendants:

Flight attendants request passengers never to touch them—under any circumstances. Whether they are serving meals, preparing drinks, or collecting trash, they can hear you. Just call, and they’ll respond. Touching strangers is generally considered inappropriate.

2. Don’t rush to use the lavatory right after boarding:

Heading to the toilet immediately after boarding can delay the entire boarding process. You could have used it at the terminal. During boarding, the crew have critical tasks—monitoring overhead luggage space, identifying able-bodied passengers for emergencies, and coordinating with the flight deck and ground team.

3. Don’t spread your arms or legs into the aisle:

Stretching is important, but extending your limbs into the aisle is both dangerous and inconvenient for crew members during service or safety checks.

4. Don’t rush to the front after landing:

Trying to be the first to get off the plane once it reaches the gate is disrespectful to others. Everyone has somewhere to be, but waiting patiently for your turn is the courteous choice.

5. Don’t question the crew’s instructions:

Ignoring or challenging crew directives is a serious mistake. Flight attendants undergo five to eight weeks of rigorous training, covering everything from operating emergency doors and performing CPR to assisting in childbirth and firefighting. They do far more than serve drinks.

6. Don’t put your feet on another passenger’s armrest:

Air travel experts warn that seeing toes sticking out from behind an armrest is unpleasant. Everyone shares the same discomfort in flight, but no one has the right to invade another’s space.

7. Don’t go barefoot:

The cabin floor can be extremely dirty and germ-laden. Bare feet not only look unpleasant but also increase the risk of infection. Keep your shoes and socks on.

8. Recline with care:

Reclining your seat is fine, but do it slowly and check if the person behind has food, drinks, or a laptop on their tray table. If possible, give them a heads-up.

Following these eight simple rules will make air travel more comfortable and safer for everyone. Your courtesy won’t just improve the journey for others—it will enhance your own flying experience as well.

-N