15 Reasons You Could Get Kicked Off a Flight (And It's Not Just Your Outfit)

You've probably heard stories about passengers being removed from flights due to their attire. But did you know that's not the only reason you could be asked to leave a plane? Airlines have a long list of offenses outlined in their contract of carriage, which passengers agree to when they purchase a ticket. Even though many don't read the fine print, you might end up on a no-fly list if you violate these rules.

Why You Might Get Kicked Off a Flight

Former flight attendant Kevin Clark explains, If a passenger has multiple incidents, they could be placed on a no-fly list and won't be able to book a ticket for a certain period, or permanently if the offense was serious or dangerous.

For incidents involving assault or battery, airport security officers will meet the passenger as they disembark and could hand them over to local law enforcement.

Here are 15 reasons you might find yourself kicked off a flight:

1. Disruptive Behavior: Being rude to fellow passengers or crew members can get you removed from a flight. This includes verbal abuse and harassment.
2. Intoxication: Being drunk or high is a major no-no. Clark shares a story about a passenger who became extremely intoxicated in first class, refused to stop drinking, and then relieved himself in the first-class stroller when flight attendants were away!
3. Inappropriate Attire: Many airlines have dress code policies. Think clothing that is overly revealing, offensive, or obscene.
4. Bare Feet: While some might consider it harmless, walking around barefoot on a plane is not hygienic. And in case of an emergency, passengers need to wear shoes for a quick and safe evacuation.
5. Unhygienic Conditions: You're likely to be asked to leave if you create an unbearable odor on the plane. This usually includes a specific clause in the contract of carriage.
6. Refusing Security Checks: You must follow security protocols, including bag searches and showing valid identification.
7. Disobeying Crew Instructions: Always follow the instructions of the flight attendants, especially when it comes to security checks and other safety procedures.
8. Misbehaving Service Animals: While service animals are welcome on planes, they are subject to the same rules as everyone else. If a service animal disrupts the flight, both the animal and the owner could be removed.
9. Smoking: Smoking on an airplane is prohibited and can result in fines, being placed on the no-fly list, or even criminal charges. This includes vaping.
10. Not Wearing Your Seatbelt: Airlines can remove passengers who don't securely fasten their seatbelts. While there are extensions available, if those don't work, you might need to be removed for safety reasons.
11. Mental Health Concerns: While everyone has the right to fly, some airlines have policies regarding passengers with mental health conditions traveling alone.
12. Late-Term Pregnancy: Flying in the latter stages of pregnancy may require a doctor's note to ensure safety.
13. Certain Medical Conditions: If you have a health condition that requires substantial assistance during flight, you might need to provide a doctor's note or be accompanied by a companion who can assist you.
14. Contagious Diseases: If you have a contagious disease, you are not allowed to fly.
15. Using a Phone During Boarding and Takeoff: Once the boarding door closes, it's time to put your phone away. Refusal to comply with the request to silence your phone could lead to removal.

What are some examples of behavior that could get a passenger removed from a flight?

Passengers can be removed from a flight for various reasons, including disruptive behavior, intoxication, inappropriate attire, refusing security checks, disobeying crew instructions, smoking, not wearing a seatbelt, and using a phone during boarding and takeoff.

What can happen to passengers who violate airline rules?

Passengers who violate airline rules could be placed on a "no-fly list", be handed over to local law enforcement, or face fines and criminal charges.

What kind of attire could result in a passenger being removed from a flight?

Clothing that is overly revealing, offensive, or obscene could result in a passenger being removed from a flight.

Why is it important to follow crew instructions?

It is important to follow crew instructions for safety reasons, especially when it comes to security checks and other safety procedures.

What are some health conditions that might prevent a passenger from flying?

Passengers with contagious diseases or certain medical conditions that require substantial assistance during flight might be prevented from flying.

Flying Responsibly

Remember, these are just some of the reasons you could be removed from a flight. It's always best to check the specific rules of your airline before you travel.