Flying is generally a comfortable and peaceful experience, but sometimes unexpected situations arise that can affect your well-being and comfort. Some of these are clearly grounds for complaint, such as a flight cancellation, excessive delays, or other circumstances that violate our rights and are the airline’s responsibility. However, there are other situations that often raise doubts, as few people know that they can also be claimed.
So, here are five lesser-known situations where passengers have the right to lodge a complaint.
Let’s get started without further delay!
1. Drunk passengers
If you’ve ever looked at the alcohol menu on a plane, you may have noticed that the bottles are small and quite expensive. This is because the amount of alcohol served is strictly controlled to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. However, some people overindulge, leading to disruptive or annoying behavior.
It’s important to know that, as a passenger, you have the right to complain if you feel threatened or uncomfortable due to someone’s behavior under the influence of alcohol. The cabin crew is trained to handle such situations and can take actions like limiting the passenger’s alcohol intake or, in extreme cases, notifying the authorities upon landing.
2. Hygiene issues
Personal hygiene is crucial in a confined space like an airplane. Some passengers may neglect this aspect, which can be unpleasant for others nearby. In extreme cases, you have the right to complain to the cabin crew.
Airlines usually handle these issues discreetly, offering hygiene products or finding ways to improve the situation. If the problem persists, you can request a seat change or ask the crew to intervene more directly.
3. Out-of-service toilets
When you fly, you rely entirely on the services provided by the airline, including access to bathrooms. If you find yourself in a situation where all the toilets are out of service, you have the right to file a complaint.
Airlines typically have protocols for such cases, like giving passengers priority access to other available toilets or, in extreme cases, offering financial compensation to affected passengers. While this situation is rare, since most planes have multiple bathrooms, it’s good to know that you can claim if it happens.
4. Passengers who take off their shoes
It’s common for some passengers to feel more comfortable by taking off their shoes during a long flight. However, this can be bothersome for those sitting nearby.
If the smell or discomfort caused by the passenger who has removed their shoes becomes unbearable, you can ask the cabin crew to step in. Airlines have policies to address this type of situation and may ask the passenger to put their shoes back on or find alternative solutions to maintain a pleasant environment on board.
Bonus: Sexual activity on board
Privacy on a plane is a delicate matter, as it is a public and small space. While some passengers may be tempted to take advantage of the “privacy” of their seats, all airlines prohibit any kind of sexual activity on board.
Passengers have the right to feel uncomfortable in such situations, and they can notify the crew if they witness or are affected by this behavior. Airlines typically take serious measures to ensure the comfort and safety of all, so it’s advisable to file a complaint if you find yourself in such a situation.
Have a nice trip!