The 20 Most Annoying Things About Airplane Travel

Updated on 12/18/2014 at 6:00 PM

In an age when people regularly fistfight over reclined seats, it seems that the stress of airline travel has reached an all-time high. Even after paying astronomical prices for tickets and trudging through ever-frustrating airport security, airline passengers have yet to face the worst of their travels: the plane ride. Sure, without planes world travel would be a nightmare, but when subjected to annoying circumstances, it can be tough to feel grateful for the gift of flight.

If you travel by air, you've undoubtedly experienced a few of these cringeworthy plane travel moments. Make yourself feel better by scrolling through the list and knowing that you'll never have to deal with all of them at once! Here are the absolute worst airplane annoyances. Source: Universal Pictures

When somebody near you gets really drunk on a morning flight.

It's 5 a.m.; let's take shots!

When somebody tries to turn the airplane into their own personal speed-dating session.

Because nothing is more romantic than bagged peanuts and stale coffee.

When somebody laughs obnoxiously.

When the in-flight movie is Paul Blart: Mall Cop, there's really no need for such loud guffawing.

When the flight attendant keeps interrupting your book/movie.

Sure, they're doing their job, but Harry Potter is sacred!

When somebody gets up to use the bathroom every 10 minutes.

Don't choose a window seat and then order three bottles of water.

When people get into fights on the plane.

We're looking at you, Knee Defender guy.

When vacationing friends use the plane to pregame.

Bonus points: chanting sorority or fraternity slogans.

When a passenger takes their anger out on the flight crew.

Somehow, this always tends to happen because of something stupid — sorry that your tea is cold, but get your attitude in check.

When people loudly complain about being late or tired.

We're all late, and we're all tired. Whining only makes it worse for everybody!

When people openly cough and sneeze throughout the flight.

It feels like you're incubating in a pool of germs.

When your neighbor talks THE ENTIRE FLIGHT.

Sorry, but pretending to be asleep does nothing.

When the plane is freezing and there are no blankets.

You shouldn't be able to see your breath on an airplane.

When the flight attendants all make the same cheesy joke.

"If you're traveling with a small child and the oxygen masks deploy, secure your own before helping the kids. Same goes for husbands."

When your neighbor falls asleep on your shoulder.

Snuggling with strangers is always a treat.

When kids kick the back of your seat.

Thanks for intervening, parents.

When your neighbor is listening to music and you can hear it through their headphones.

But you have to respect somebody that can tolerate Nickelback's greatest hits for six straight hours.

When the lavatory is occupied by people trying to join the Mile High Club.

That's not sexy or sanitary.

When the person behind you puts their feet on your armrest.

The smell alone can ruin a flight.

When people ignore the no cell phone rule.

Whether it's Candy Crush or a loud conversation, this passenger will find a way to drive everybody nuts.

When the in-flight movie is the one you watched last night.

As much as you'd love to watch Marley & Me for the 40th time . . .