A YouGov survey of U.S. travelers revealed 20% of passengers find it acceptable to ignore pre-flight safety demonstrations. Frequent fliers (32%) are more likely to ignore these demonstrations compared to non-frequent fliers (16%).
Over 80% of respondents disapproved of disruptive or unsafe behaviors like kids playing in the aisle, leaving seats during turbulence, and getting drunk on planes. More than 80% also labeled certain behaviors like using both armrests (74%), eating strong-smelling food (68%), and removing shoes mid-flight (just over 50%) as unacceptable or frowned upon.
47% believe it's acceptable to unbuckle seat belts when the seatbelt light is off, despite recommendations to remain buckled for safety.
Respondents were divided on behaviors like making phone calls, unbuckling seatbelts when the light is on, leaving overhead lights on, and not using headphones for electronic devices.
Approximately 30% of American adults believe taking off shoes on a plane is acceptable, although walking around in socks can be unsanitary due to dirty carpets and potential biohazards.
55% find it acceptable to recline their seat on a plane, while not reclining is considered bad behavior by some.
Frequent fliers are more likely to disapprove of certain behaviors compared to infrequent fliers and are more likely to oppose making phone calls during flights.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: Business Insider, Yahoo News, Live and Let's Fly, Newsweek