Plane passengers are getting angrier – and hidden airline fees are to blame, say experts
IT’S official – air passengers are getting angrier.
Between long queues, delayed flights and overpriced food, the whole airport experience can be stressful at times.
But travel experts have suggested that things are even worse now, with a rising tide of fury sweeping holidaymakers.
Just last month a rowdy EasyJet passenger was filmed being dragged from a flight to Ibiza after “kicking off” and forcing the plane into an emergency landing.
And nobody is safe it seems, as a BBC star was removed from a flight in May after demanding other passengers didn’t eat peanuts due to a severe allergy.
Over in the US, research by the Federal Aviation Administration has found that “in-flight incidents” remain at record highs, if slightly down on the post-pandemic peak.
Beth Walter, a business communication professor from Carnegie Mellon University, has identified one of the key factors contributing to the mid-air aggro.
She told the Seattle Times: “A big factor in consumers losing their tempers is the feeling that they are getting nickel and dimed at every turn.
“No one likes hidden fees, and if they pop up during trips they can easily trigger the temper of a stressed-out, exhausted traveller who has been preparing for their summer vacation since last year and is expecting that everything goes according to plan.”
Extra charges for things like seat selection, as well as the ever-tightening luggage allowance combined with airline overbooking practices have, according to Beth, raised frustration levels among travellers.
Although, it’s not all on airlines according to etiquette expert Rosalinda Oropeza Randall, who cited the fact that passengers are also ruder than ever these days.
She added: “There are no consequences.
“It’s true, many incidents go unreported because they’re just little temper tantrums.”
Fortunately, the experts do have some top tips for ensuring a stress-free experience.
Stress-management whizz Colleen Newvine recommended breathing exercises to lower the temperature and keep any rage in check.
She urged: “Breathe slowly and deeply, exhaling twice as long as you take for your inhale, to help tell your nervous system that you’re safe.”
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
And psychology professor Thomas Plante said: “It all comes down to respect and compassion.
“Typically, escalating tensions can be diminished if you show both respect and compassion to the person who is getting upset.”
It comes after a major airline was forced to cancel more than 160 flights later this month due to strike action.