Flight attendants share 12 ‘polite’ habits from passengers that they actually hate. I’m guilty of no. 5

Most travelers board a flight wanting to be courteous and easygoing passengers. But here’s the catch: what feels polite or thoughtful on the ground can actually frustrate flight attendants in the air. From grabbing trash too soon to “helpfully” rearranging overhead bins, some well-meaning gestures end up making their jobs harder—or even creating safety risks.

To help you avoid those pitfalls, here are 12 common habits flight attendants secretly dislike—and what to do instead.

12 passenger habits that secretly drive flight attendants nuts (and why)

1. Touching flight attendants to get their attention

Sometimes well-intentioned touches—like a gentle nudge or tapping—cross a boundary. Flight attendants prefer a polite “Excuse me” or pressing the call button rather than physical contact.

2. Using nicknames or terms of endearment

Words like “honey” or “darling” may be meant kindly, but they’re out of place in professional settings. A respectful “excuse me” goes much further.

3. Grabbing items directly from the cart

The service cart isn’t self-serve. When passengers take food or drinks themselves, it disrupts inventory control and hygiene protocols.

4.Handing over trash (especially gross waste) prematurely

Flight attendants prefer passengers hold onto trash until official collection moments—especially items like diapers—since handling by bare hands is unpleasant (and yes, a diaper on the cart can halt service!).

5. Reorganizing overhead bins or others’ belongings

While arguably helpful, moving items in overhead bins can confuse both passengers and crew and complicate deplaning. It’s best to stow quickly and let staff handle organization.

6. Performing flight attendants’ duties or correcting fellow passengers

Even if well-meant—like pointing out someone not reclining their seat properly—such behavior adds to stress and potential conflict. Flight attendants ask you to leave enforcement to them.

7. Asking for water immediately after boarding

Boarding is hectic and packed with safety tasks. Requesting water or medication during this time strains workflow. Better to hydrate at the gate before boarding.

8. Heading to the lavatory during service

Going to the bathroom when attendants are serving is inconvenient and unsafe. Holding on until they clear your row—or allowing room—makes things smoother.

9. Smashing the call button repeatedly

Urgent needs are valid—but repetitively pressing the call button for small things distracts crew. If you’re patient, many needs can wait until service rounds pass by.

10. Relying on crew for heavy luggage lifting

Flight attendants aren’t meant to hoist heavy bags. This can lead to serious injuries—if your baggage is too heavy, consider gate checking it instead.

11. Demanding a meal after service ends

Meal services are tightly scheduled. Missing your window might mean no second chance. If hungry later, it’s thoughtful to come prepared with a personal snack.

12. Consuming tap water or ice from aircraft tanks

Aircraft water systems can harbor bacteria (including E. coli), especially since tanks are cleaned infrequently. To be safe, avoid tap water, in-cabin coffee, or ice—opt for bottled or canned beverages instead.

Why it matters

Flight attendants balance safety, customer service, and efficiency at 30,000 feet. Disruptive habits—even if polite in intention—add load to an already demanding environment. Staying considerate not only smooths the journey for crew but enhances the overall experience for all on board.

Tips for being a well-behaved passenger

The good news is, it doesn’t take much to be an agreeable passenger. Want to be the kind of traveler flight attendants actually enjoy serving? Try these easy habits instead:

1. Pack smartly

Keep your carry-on light enough to lift into the overhead bin yourself. Use under-seat storage for smaller items to free up space for others.

2.Hydrate before boarding

Grab water at the gate or bring a sealed bottle. This prevents adding extra work for crew during the busiest boarding moments.

3. Respect the call button

Use it sparingly—for urgent or time-sensitive needs. Otherwise, wait until attendants make their rounds.

4. Keep trash neat

Hold onto garbage until collection time. If it’s messy (like tissues or diapers), bag it before handing it over.

5. Be bathroom considerate

Try to avoid using the lavatory during service or just before takeoff/landing. Timing your trip makes life easier for everyone.

6. Mind your tech

Bring headphones, keep volume low, and be alert when crew need your attention.

7. Follow crew instructions promptly

When attendants ask for seats upright or seatbelts fastened, it’s not optional—it’s for safety. Quick compliance keeps the flight running smoothly.

8. Bring your own snacks

Even on long flights, don’t count on meal extras. Packing a small snack avoids disappointment and hunger.

9. Stay polite and patient

A smile, a “please,” or a simple “thank you” goes further than you think. Flight attendants juggle dozens of passengers at once—kindness makes their day.

Final thoughts

Flying well-behaved isn’t complicated—it’s about being self-aware, considerate, and respectful of the crew’s role. A little courtesy goes a long way at 30,000 feet.