After the hustle and bustle of airport security, settling into a plane seat can be a welcome respite. Passengers often look forward to unwinding and enjoying their flight, but sometimes this ideal scenario is disrupted by less-than-pleasant experiences. A traveller recently took to TikTok to share her ordeal with an off-putting odour during her Ryanair flight.
The video begins with her seated, showing the back of the seat in front, captioned: “For the first half of my flight I kept smelling something awful.”
Then, the camera pans down to reveal a white sock on the floor, belonging to the passenger behind her, suggesting that the smell was coming from their bare feet.
The clip has attracted 384,000 views, more than 1,400 likes, and a number of comments so far.
One viewer expressed disgust, commenting: “That is gross! People are so unaware sometimes.”
In response, the passenger replied: “They smelt so bad, wish I was brave enough to tell him to move them back to his space.”
Another agreed, adding: “Sorry but that should be a criminal offence.”
Meanwhile, others shared how they would have dealt with the uncomfortable situation if they were on board.
One chimed in: “My heels would be slamming down onto those toes so fast.” And another echoed this, writing: “See I would have thrown my foot back and cracked a few toes! Horrible people who do that.”
Foot odour ranks among the most common unpleasant smells and it’s even more noticeable on a plane since the air is partially recirculated. With windows that can’t be opened, it becomes difficult to avoid the smell.
Removing socks is universally considered dreadful manners on public transport, as the smell from bare feet creates discomfort for fellow passengers. Also, nobody wants another person’s socks invading their personal space during a flight.
To avoid being deemed a stinky passenger, be sure to shower and apply deodorant before you fly. Wear clean, breathable clothes, as well as clean socks with closed shoes.
Consider odour-absorbing insoles if you’re prone to foot odour – and your fellow passengers will be sure to thank you!
