January 14, 2026 | 10:14 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Traveling by plane can be an unpleasant experience. Several viral videos have shown people being kicked off a plane for misbehaving. The reasons aren't limited to that.
According to Kyle Maltz, chief operating officer of Dollar Flight Club, most people are kicked off a flight for perceived extreme behavior. However, sometimes minor issues can become a problem. Airlines can deny boarding to passengers or ask them to leave the aircraft if they threaten public safety and order.
Here are some reasons why someone might be kicked off a plane:
1. Misbehavior and Aggression
Passengers can be kicked off a flight for disruptive, violent, or aggressive behavior, making threats, or interfering with the cabin crew's ability to perform their duties. Once a passenger refuses instructions, escalates confrontation, or distracts cabin crew during the boarding or taxiing process, airlines have little flexibility because it becomes a safety issue.
"One disorderly person cannot be allowed to jeopardize the experience or safety of 150 other people," said Tiffany Funk, co-founder of Point.me, as reported by Travel + Leisure.
According to the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), passengers who behave disorderly and disrupt the duties of cabin crew may face expulsion, fines, or further action.
2. Seating Disputes
For example, passengers who refuse to follow cabin crew instructions regarding seating or dispute over armrests, kick or recline seats, and cause complaints from other passengers. If passengers refuse to comply with cabin crew instructions or de-escalate the situation, the airline can intervene to prevent the situation from disrupting the cabin.
3. Violating Dress Codes
Airlines have dress codes. Although rare, violating these rules can result in denied boarding or removal from the flight. It's best to avoid clothing containing obscene or offensive language and clothing that is too revealing. Dress codes are not about personal style but about whether the attractiveness is disruptive or inconsistent with airline policy.
4. Lack of Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene, such as strong body odor that is deemed disruptive by cabin crew, including if it triggers complaints from other passengers. If it affects the comfort and well-being of passengers on board, eating is considered disruptive under airline policy.
5. Appearing Ill or Contagious
If a passenger appears ill or potentially contagious, the cabin crew can make a decision and take appropriate action. The airline is responsible for the health and safety of everyone on board. It is best to wait until you are fully recovered before boarding.
6. Intoxication
Being intoxicated above 30 feet above sea level and in a confined cabin can pose a safety risk. In some cases, public intoxication can also violate local laws. Consequences can range from denial of boarding to involvement of airport security or law enforcement.
7. Smoking or vaping
Smoking or vaping on an airplane can trigger smoke detectors and pose a safety risk. This is a serious offense, and passengers who violate it may be removed from the flight, fined, or approached by law enforcement upon landing.
Read: Study Finds Airplane Drinking Water Often Unsafe
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