What are the 10 biggest frustrations for air passengers? We found out!

Traveling is a joy, but for many passengers, the actual flight itself is far from it. Unless you have the dough to splurge on first class or your own private jet, most of us mere mortals in economy class have to put up with getting squashed into a cramped, stuffy cabin, lousy food, and battling seatmates for armrest domination. In short, flying can be stressful.

That’s why we asked 200 globetrotters from across the world what they think are the worst things about flying. Here’s the verdict.

10. No direct flights

Our first travel frustration starts at the booking stage. You’re ready to book the holiday of your dreams and want to get there fast. Unfortunately, the only flights available either include a 9-hour layover or 3 super short, 30-minute connections where you have to sprint across unfamiliar airports just to make it on time to your connecting flight.

9. Confusing booking websites

What’s the difference between basic economy and regular economy? Why am I being charged extra? And wait— bags aren’t even included?

If you think booking sites are confusing, you’re not alone. Around 43% of our respondents agree that they could be clearer and easier to navigate.

8. Expensive food and drinks

Have you ever paid €7 for a bottle of water and another €4 for a stale, dry sandwich stuffed with just a single slice of cheese? That’s airport prices for you! Airports typically charge up to 10-15% more than street prices due to high transport, staff, and rent costs. Plus, travelers are essentially a captive audience with nowhere else to go once they pass the security gates.

7. No luggage included

These days, it's pretty common for airlines to no longer include luggage in the ticket price. While this does allow for greater flexibility for those who travel light, it’s a huge stressor for anyone who wants to pack a little more than a few days’ worth of clothing. Plus, many budget airlines have even done away with free carry-on luggage altogether and only allow a tiny backpack. So if you want more luggage, better pay up!

6. Long lines

It seems like flying always means having to contend with long, snaking queues. You line up for the security check, for the toilets, for the stores, for boarding, and even inside the plane when everyone is scrambling to find their seats and stow their luggage. It’s no wonder many airlines recommend you arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure!

5. No suitable replacement flights

If your flight gets canceled, regulations like EC 261 actually require airlines to provide you with either a refund or a replacement flight. However, while most airlines strive to give you the next available flight, the replacement can sometimes be wildly different from your original flight, causing you to either lose valuable vacation time or be forced to stay longer. Just remember, if this happens to you, it’s possible to ask for compensation and even ask the airline to provide you with free accommodation if you have to stay overnight.

4. Lack of legroom

Why are airplane seats so uncomfortable? You get very little legroom, and if you’re taller than most, say goodbye to your knees! Unfortunately, the only way to get more legroom is to pay for it, either by purchasing seats in the front row or by the emergency exits, or by upgrading your class.

3. It’s hard to claim refunds or compensation

Did you know that if your flight was delayed by 3 hours or more, or canceled less than 14 days before departure, that you could get up to €600 compensation? If you don't, better check if you’re eligible!

However, the process of actually getting compensation can be difficult and time-consuming. Up to 63% of our respondents said that difficulties in claiming refunds or compensation is one of their biggest travel gripes.

2. Strict or unclear bag size limits

With all the different types, shapes and sizes of luggage, it can be difficult to figure out what you’re actually allowed to bring onto the plane with you. And, if your luggage is even half a kilo too heavy or just barely misses fitting into the bag sizer at the airport, the airline won’t hesitate to fine you for it. Don’t we all wish that they could give us just a little bit more leeway?

1. Lack of information about flight disruptions

And at the top of our list, the biggest travel frustration of them all is the lack of information about flight disruptions, which was chosen by 66% of all passengers we surveyed. The announcement of a flight delay or cancellation is always chaotic, with passengers unsure about what to do next. It’s even worse when all you get is a short announcement that your flight is canceled, with no news on when you’ll be able to fly or if it’s possible to get a refund.

If this happens to you, remember that you’re entitled to food, access to communication, and if your flight is canceled, a replacement flight — airlines aren’t allowed to leave you stranded in a foreign country after all.

Keep your chin up

Flying can be an exhausting experience, filled with challenges that test even the most patient travelers. But the next time something bugs you on your flight, know that you’re not alone. Just take a deep breath, stay calm, and keep going. And above all, enjoy your travels!

Flight delays happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept them. You may be entitled to as much as €600 in compensation if your flight was delayed, canceled or overbooked within the last three years.