Flying can be stressful. Delays, crowded airports, tight connections, and long security lines can put almost anyone in a bad mood before they even step onto the plane.
But according to flight attendants, some passengers reveal exactly what kind of traveler they’ll be within moments of boarding. Small behaviors, whether it’s how someone treats the crew, interacts with fellow passengers, or handles minor inconveniences, often give away whether they’ll be easygoing or become a challenge once the cabin doors close. Here are some of the biggest red flags flight attendants say they notice before takeoff.
Rushing Down the Jet Bridge
Most passengers are eager to get settled, but travelers who board in a frenzy often set off alarm bells. Flight attendants say passengers who arrive at the aircraft already frustrated, demanding answers, or loudly complaining tend to bring that same energy throughout the flight.
Ignoring the Crew During Boarding
One of the simplest ways to make a positive impression is to acknowledge the flight attendant’s greeting at the door. Passengers who walk past without making eye contact or responding to a greeting can sometimes come across as dismissive or impatient before the flight has even begun.
Related: 16 Things Flight Attendants Wish You’d Stop Doing on the Plane
Forgetting Basic Courtesy
Flight attendants spend hours helping passengers, answering questions, and ensuring everyone’s safety. A simple “please” or “thank you” may seem insignificant, but crew members notice passengers who consistently show appreciation and those who don’t.
Boarding While Clearly Intoxicated
Having a drink before a flight isn’t unusual, but excessive drinking before boarding can create problems quickly. Flight attendants are trained to watch for passengers who appear heavily intoxicated because disruptive behavior often becomes much harder to manage once the plane is in the air.
Starting Arguments Over Seating Assignments
Few things catch a crew member’s attention faster than a passenger sitting in the wrong seat and refusing to move. Whether it’s trying to claim an upgraded seat or pressuring another traveler to switch places, these situations often create unnecessary tension before takeoff.
Related: 12 Things People Feel Pressured to Tip For—but Often Don’t Have To
Blocking the Aisle While Organizing Belongings
Everyone needs a moment to stow luggage and find their seat. However, passengers who stop in the middle of the aisle and spend several minutes reorganizing bags, searching for headphones, or digging through carry-ons can delay boarding for dozens of other people.
Refusing to Follow Simple Instructions
Flight attendants pay close attention to passengers who immediately challenge basic requests. If someone is already arguing about properly storing a bag, keeping a seat upright, or turning off a speaker during boarding, it often signals that larger issues may follow during the flight.
Playing Audio on Speaker
One of the quickest ways to irritate both crew members and fellow passengers is listening to videos, music, or phone calls without headphones. Flight attendants often view this as a sign that a traveler is more focused on their own comfort than the shared experience of everyone around them.
Related: The Most Unnecessary Little Fees People Pay All the Time (Even When They Don’t Have To)
Constantly Complaining Before the Flight Even Begins
Every flight has minor inconveniences, but passengers who begin complaining the moment they board often continue to complain throughout the journey. Whether it’s the seat assignment, overhead bin space, cabin temperature, or the boarding process itself, nonstop negativity is often a warning sign.
Treating Flight Attendants Like Personal Assistants
Flight attendants are there primarily for safety, not to act as personal concierges. Passengers who make excessive demands, snap their fingers, interrupt crew members while they’re helping others, or expect special treatment often become some of the most difficult travelers on board.
