Flight attendants have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to maintaining safety and comfort on flights. Their advice on what passengers should avoid doing can significantly enhance the overall flying experience for everyone. Here are some key things flight attendants suggest passengers should never do on a flight:

1. Disobey Crew Instructions: Ignoring or challenging the instructions of flight attendants can compromise safety. Whether it’s about fastening seat belts, turning off electronic devices, or preparing for landing, following crew directions is crucial for the safety of all passengers.

2. Ignore Seat Belt Signs: When the seat belt sign is on, passengers must remain seated with their seat belts fastened. Turbulence can occur unexpectedly, and remaining seated minimizes the risk of injury.

3. Recline Seats During Meals: Reclining seats during meal service can be inconsiderate and uncomfortable for the passenger behind. It can also lead to spills and accidents. It’s courteous to wait until meals are cleared before reclining.

4. Monopolize the Overhead Bins: Space in the overhead bins is limited. Passengers should use only the space above their seats and avoid overstuffing the bins to ensure everyone has room for their carry-on items.

5. Drink Excessively: Consuming too much alcohol can lead to disruptive behavior and health issues. The effects of alcohol are amplified at high altitudes, and intoxicated passengers can become a safety risk.

6. Bare Feet: Walking around the cabin with bare feet is unsanitary and can be dangerous. The cabin floor is not always clean, and in an emergency, shoes are necessary for protection.

7. Block the Aisle or Exits: Congregating in the aisle or around emergency exits can impede the movement of passengers and crew, particularly in an emergency. It’s important to keep these areas clear.

8. Ignore Personal Hygiene: Good personal hygiene is vital in the close confines of an airplane. Passengers should avoid strong perfumes and ensure they are clean to prevent discomfort for those around them.

9. Use Electronic Devices During Takeoff and Landing: Even though regulations have relaxed, using large electronic devices during critical phases of flight can be distracting and against airline policies.

10. Be Rude to the Crew: Flight attendants are there to ensure safety and comfort. Being rude or dismissive can make their job harder and negatively impact the flight experience for everyone.

11. Drink Water and Ice or Hot Drinks: Do not accept ice in your drinks and avoid water, coffee and tea. Studies show that the ice scoop is rarely cleaned and water tanks on the plane are rarely sanitized or even emptied, which means even the coffee and tea are made with potentially bacteria-laden water.

By adhering to these guidelines, passengers can contribute to a safer, more pleasant flight environment for themselves, the crew, and fellow travelers.