Holiday ‘Travel Icks:' Canadians Say Other Passengers Just as Stressful as Delays

As Canada heads into the busy winter travel season, a new survey suggests that flight delays aren’t the only thing testing travellers’ patience.

The Flight Centre survey conducted by YouGov found that four in five Canadians have experienced a travel disruption, most often a delayed flight (63%), followed by lost luggage (37%) and flight cancellations (28%).

But many respondents said the behaviour of other passengers adds just as much stress as operational issues, especially during the holiday rush.

When asked to rank their top in-flight “travel icks,” Canadians placed flight delays or cancellations at the top (58%), closely followed by lost luggage or baggage concerns (52%). Disruptive passengers — including crying babies or intoxicated travellers — ranked third at 41%, while additional fees such as excess baggage charges frustrated 34% of respondents.

Smaller but familiar annoyances also made the list.

More than one-quarter of travellers said being stuck in a middle seat was a major irritation (27%), while 19% were bothered by passengers taking off their shoes and going barefoot. Chatty seatmates, aisle passengers who won’t get up to let others pass, lack of in-flight entertainment and no wi-fi all tied closely behind.

Generational Divides

Gen Z travellers were most irritated by the lack of wi-fi, overly talkative neighbours and having to complete physical passenger cards. 

Millennials were particularly bothered by bare feet and no in-flight entertainment.

Gen X respondents cited lost luggage and added fees as their top frustrations, while baby boomers were most annoyed by flight delays, disruptive passengers and being trapped in the middle seat.

“The week before Christmas and the period right after New Year’s Day are always busy, and this year is shaping up to be one of the busiest winter travel seasons,” says Flight Centre spokesperson Amra Durakovic.

“Understanding where frustrations arise helps travellers prepare, and it also highlights where travel experts can step in. When disruptions happen, having support and flexible itinerary options can make a significant difference.”

Pack Courtesy

In response, Flight Centre released a “Considerate Flyer Guide” aimed at easing holiday travel tension.

●      Wait Your Turn: You’re eager to get to turkey dinner — we get it! But obeying the rules of air travel helps everything run smoother. To board: Wait to get in line until your section is invited. To disembark: Exit the plane in order of row, from front to back.
●      Tread Carefully: Ensure your bag(s) meet the allowed dimensions and, when boarding, carry them directly in front or behind you to avoid bashing other guests.
●      Share Storage: Overhead compartments are prime real estate on full flights, so only store your largest bag—ensuring it’s in the compartment above your row when possible—and stash gifts or other items under the seat in front of you.
●      Cede the Middle Armrests: The middle seat doesn’t have a lot going for it. By letting the middle passenger have the armrest, you’ll score an instant spot on Santa’s nice list.
●      Stay in Your Lane: Be mindful of encroaching on other people’s personal space, either by reclining your seat (don’t do it during meal times!), pulling on someone else’s headrest to stand or pushing your feet or knees into the back of the seat in front of you.
●      Imbibe Wisely: You know yourself best. If you tend to get loud and sloppy after three glasses of mulled wine, cap it at two.
●      Keep Your Shoes On: Unless you’re on an overnight flight and brought a pair of slippers, keep your footwear where it belongs: on your feet.
●      Keep Washroom Trips Short: If you frequent the washroom, book an aisle seat, and avoid turning the lavatory into a lounge.
●      Mind the Chatter: If your neighbour puts on their headphones or buries their face in a book, it means they want the gift of peace and quiet.

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