Comfortable clothing is extremely important while traveling, especially when you have to stay in a tight space for a long duration. This includes footwear as well. When air traveling, make sure to ensure that you are prioritizing both your own convenience and your fellow passenger’s comfort. While there are no restrictions on wearing sandals and open-toe shoes on a plane, some things must be accounted for.
This is an extremely valid concern and this article will delve into just that! By discussing relevant factors, we will discuss whether you can wear sandals on a plane. Keep reading to learn all the essentials and get ready for a cozy travel experience.
What are the Airline Policies
While there are no standard rules against wearing sandals on a plane, different airlines may have specific guidelines. Passengers can wear pretty much anything as long as they comply with particular regulations. Remember that the rules may also vary based on your final destination and travel class. Flight attendants may advise you against wearing sandals and you may be asked to remove them while security screening and metal detectors. You can always get precise information and know airplane policies by checking your airline’s official website or contacting customer service. Some other factors that should be considered include hygiene, safety considerations, and comfort.
Before we move on to discuss that, let’s see some of the major airlines’ policies regarding wearing sandals on a plane.
- American Airlines: American Airlines flights have a “dress appropriately” policy that requires you to wear appropriate footwear. There are no rules against wearing sandals but your feet shouldn’t be too exposed. As per their regulations, your sandals should provide ample coverage.
- Delta Airlines: they don’t have any policy against wearing sandals. However, Delta Airlines reserves the right to remove you if they deem your footwear to be offensive in any way. Closed-toe shoes are more recommended but there is no sandal ban.
- Southwest Airlines: southwest states that passengers can’t wear clothing that is lewd or offensive in any way. If your sandals are not considered either of those, you are permitted to wear them on the plane.
- United Airlines: they don’t have a blanket rule or specific policy against sandals but wearing close-toed shoes is highly encouraged. Flight attendants may ask you to change footwear if they consider it unsafe.
Factors to Consider
You must consider some situation-specific factors before deciding if it’s smart to wear sandals on a plane. Some examples are given below.
Flight duration
Naturally, the distance you are traveling should be the first and main concern. Whether you have a short-haul flight or a long-haul flight should influence your decision. If you are going to be sitting in one cramped seat for a long trip then you wouldn’t want your feet to hurt. In these instances, you can consider wearing lightweight fisherman sandals or flip-flops.
Destination
Your final destination (or any layover place) should also affect the decision. Make sure to consider that place’s cultural norms and dress accordingly. You wouldn’t want to disrespect the culture upon landing. You should also check the expected weather of the destination and decide on your travel outfit as per that.
Hygiene
Hygiene is one of the most important factors. Since airplane floors are dirty, it may not be a good idea to wear sandals or open footwear in general as it will increase the risk of catching germs. You should also account for other passenger’s health preferences and avoid wearing open shoes as some people may consider it disrespectful.
Comfortable shoes
Everything aside, your comfort level should be the main priority. Air travel is stressful enough with baggage, airport security checkpoints, and the screening process, you should always wear something that will work for your convenience. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or uncomfortable. For instance, wearing high heels on a plane would be unbearable.
Temperature
You can expect the airplane cabin to be freezing. Even if it’s warm outside, consider bringing cozy socks for the flight. The better option would be to wear some compression socks to reduce swelling on long flights. Wearing sandals and slip-on shoes will give you the option of removal if your feet swell. Sandals may work in extreme heat but it will be a bad idea to wear them in chilled cabins.
Practical footwear
Along with comfortability, there should also be a certain level of practicality in your shoes. This means you should wear stable and sensible shoes that won’t cause trouble if there is a need for emergency exits and evacuations. Also, remember that you need to navigate through the airport security lines before and after landing. If you think your sandals are sturdy enough to get you through, then feel free to wear them.
What are the FAA Regulations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not established any formal policies regarding wearing sandals on a plane. However, most airlines encourage passengers to opt for enclosed and sturdy footwear like slip-on sneakers, joggers, or even ballet flats. In any case, you should be prepared to remove them, if asked at the security checks. Socks can be worn for hygiene purposes and to avoid direct contact with unpleasant ground surfaces.
It may be a good idea to choose sturdy options as they are more practical in the event of an emergency. Travel experts will recommend you read up on specific policies before your flight and check all the updates for a hassle-free travel experience.
Airplane Dress Code
Most airlines have a general dress code that requires passengers to wear appropriate and non-offensive footwear. Your shoes must comply with the general standards. Airplanes do not allow bare feet unless you are under 5 years old or have a special circumstance. For safety purposes and consideration of other passengers, some restrictions are put up by every airline but you should always check your specific requirements.
Depending on your destination country, current country, or airline, you may be subject to cultural/ religious restrictions too. Other than that, some airlines do not allow casual wear in their business class lounges and impose dress codes for premium services so make sure to check that as well. You may be subject to the “dress appropriately” policy by the planes as sandals can come across as a potential safety hazard.
Final Thoughts
In the end, we can say that the question of whether you can wear sandals on a plane is narrowed down to a few rules. As long as your footwear is a practical, appropriate, and comfortable option, you are good to go. Remember to prioritize your convenience over anything else and aim for a perfect balance. You certainly wouldn’t want to be a nuisance to cabin crew members or other passengers.
We hope this article helped you understand travel footwear to some level and cleared any concerns. If you have any further questions or lingering doubts, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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