What are the most annoying habits on a flight?
Tiger polled 1,000 people in the UK in June 2025. According to the responses, the most annoying habits were (in order):
Reclining the seat (14%)
Standing before the seatbelt sign goes off (12%)
Not being ready for passport or security checks (11%)
Listening to videos, music, or podcasts without earphones (9%)
Standing in the row before the plane doors open (9%)
Queueing to board before the flight is called (8%)
Fiddling with overhead cabin baggage (7%)
Clapping when the plane lands (6%)
Asking to swap seats with another passenger (6%)
Talking during the safety demonstration (6%).
How can I be more polite on a plane?
Ian Wilson, a travel insurance expert, says the key is simply being considerate. "It all comes down to being considerate," he said.
"Small actions like asking before reclining your seat, using headphones when using devices, or being ready at security can make a big difference to everyone's travel experience."
Speaking to the BBC, etiquette expert William Hanson said that if you must do something fellow passengers might not appreciate, like using both armrests or reclining your chair, pick your times and ask your neighbours beforehand.
"If you don't want to temper your behaviour to get along with other people then there's something wrong with you, to be blunt," he said.