June 10, 2026, 8:42 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Out of convenience or perhaps because their feet got warm on the plane, some people take off their shoes during the flight and continue barefoot or in socks. Other passengers view this behavior critically. It’s hard to prohibit, as there’s no requirement to wear shoes in the cabin. However, perhaps there should be one, if only for safety reasons. And it raises the question of what etiquette says about it. More on this at TRAVELBOOK.
It’s a topic that divides opinions. For some, it’s completely normal to take off their shoes on a plane or train. Others wouldn’t even consider it. A post on X recently brought this surprisingly large debate to light. A traveler started a poll asking the community if it was acceptable to take off shoes on a plane. Among the thousands of comments were both strongly opposing views, calling the behavior “boorish,” and those defending it.
Arguments Against Taking Off Shoes on a Plane
Tastes and opinions are known to differ. But objectively speaking, there are several arguments against taking off shoes on a plane–setting aside the question of courtesy toward fellow travelers.
First, the floor in airplane cabins is undoubtedly dirty. It’s walked on by countless travelers in street shoes, who sometimes also visit the restrooms. And there, the floor is reportedly “disgustingly dirty,” according to a flight attendant from a major German airline, who wishes to remain anonymous. Passengers often urinate next to the toilet, and used toilet paper sometimes ends up on the floor instead of in the trash or toilet–”yes, even in Business Class!” she says.
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For the insider, even after many years of experience, it’s unimaginable that people walk barefoot or just in socks through the cabin and even into the restrooms. Those same feet are then put back into shoes and taken off at home, where the dirt is thoughtlessly spread.
Odor Issues and Safety Aspects
The woman who sparked the debate on X mainly criticized the potential odor issue. Even if fellow travelers’ feet didn’t initially smell, she was convinced they eventually would. She preemptively complained and actually succeeded in getting the other passenger to put their shoes back on. Her conclusion: uncivilized behavior.
Moreover, the safety aspect also argues for keeping shoes on during the flight. While flying is considered extremely safe, unexpected situations can arise that require quick action. If a plane needs to be evacuated quickly, shoes can protect against injuries. Having to put them back on would waste valuable time.
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What Does Etiquette Say About the Topic?
TRAVELBOOK reached out to Linda Kaiser, deputy chairwoman of the German Etiquette Society. From her perspective, there’s no reason to take off shoes in public spaces. “It should be a given to remain fully dressed as long as you’re in a room with strangers,” the etiquette expert continued. “You wouldn’t take off your pants on a plane just because it’s more comfortable.”
Kaiser recommends behaving in shared spaces in a way that makes the majority of those present feel comfortable. A principle that can certainly be applied to various life situations. Regarding taking off shoes on a plane, she points out–besides the justified concern about unpleasant odors–that not everyone finds the sight of bare feet pleasant. Those who value their own comfort can bring comfortable spare shoes or light slippers in their carry-on, offering more freedom for their feet.
Conclusion
Even those who place great importance on hygiene and are convinced of their fragrant and clean feet should keep their shoes on during the flight. Out of consideration for fellow travelers, this private matter should remain private. And for one’s own interest, there are several reasons against taking off shoes during the flight–both for hygiene and safety reasons.
Instead, a bit of travel preparation is recommended: Just as you think of reading material or a snack, you should choose comfortable footwear for the flight instead of tight leather boots or high heels. If the airline distributes socks to passengers, it may increase comfort–but from an etiquette perspective, it’s still not a free pass to take off your shoes.