Why it's safe to wear shoes on a flight - explained by a flight attendant

Removing shoes on an airplane can pose certain risks.

Hygiene: Airplanes are frequently used by many people, and the cabin floors can be dirty due to food waste, spills, and other contaminants. While flight attendants regularly clean, they may not always be able to ensure complete cleanliness.

Safety: In the event of an emergency evacuation, it's important to have shoes on to protect your feet from sharp or hot objects that may be in the path to the exit.

Health: The cabin of an airplane can be cold, and removing shoes could lead to feet becoming overly chilled, which is particularly dangerous for individuals with certain medical conditions like diabetes.

Comfort of other passengers: If a passenger's feet have an odor, it can be unpleasant for those around them.

What the flight attendant says

This was confirmed by a flight attendant named Tommy Kimato. He shared on social media several tips on what not to do aboard an aircraft. He emphasized that passengers should not remove their shoes during a flight because the floors are usually dirty, making it unhygienic.

This also violates the rules of most airlines. He highlighted that in the event of an emergency, having shoes on could be crucial for quick and safe evacuation. Additionally, Kimato warned against standing up during turbulence to avoid injuries and stressed the importance of paying attention to the safety instructions given by flight attendants.

These guidelines could be lifesaving during emergencies. Lastly, he advised passengers not to stand up immediately after landing for safety reasons and to remain seated until the seatbelt sign is turned off.

Thus, while taking off shoes might seem like a way to increase comfort during a long flight, it can lead to hygiene and safety issues.