The latest travel term « Euro Weekly News
People leaving an aeroplane. Credit: Shutterstock, Viktor Konya
Air travel has always had its quirks, but social media has introduced another funny yet sharp term called “aisle lice”.
Much like their forerunners, “gate lice” – passengers who crowd the boarding gate before their zone is called – the term “aisle lice” describes travellers who impatiently push their way through the aisles as soon as a plane lands, causing chaos and annoyance.
This new term has gone viral, sparking debates across platforms including Reddit. One user on a forum shared their irritation: “Not only do the two people next to me stand up, but somehow the guy from the window seat shoves his way forward and is the first of all of us to get off the plane.” Their frustration struck a chord, with others chiming in to share similar complaints – I personally cannot even imagine this happening, but I guess it must do!
In-flight etiquette
While some argue that gate lice are equally annoying, many passengers feel that aisle lice really take the biscuit. As one Reddit user put it: “Aisle lice slow things down, delay people, and cause so much more headache.” Another highlighted how unavoidable it is: “You can avoid gate lice, but aisle lice are right there.”
Interestingly, the blame doesn’t just fall on passengers. Some argue airlines are partially responsible for encouraging this behaviour due to tight schedules and rushed boarding processes. “I blame the airlines,” one passenger commented. “If you don’t have a tight connection or emergency, wait your turn to get off the plane.”
Airline efforts to fight in-flight frustrations
American Airlines has taken steps to reduce bad passenger behaviour. In select airports, they tested technology that rejects boarding passes if passengers try to board before their zone is called – a direct response to the gate lice phenomenon.
However, there’s yet to be a solution for the chaos caused by aisle lice. As one frustrated traveller put it, “Window people need to stay put. I’d never move until the aisle is clear.” The consensus? A little patience and respect for personal space can go a long way in making air travel less stressful for everyone.
One commenter summed up: “The fact we have to choose between these two is ridiculous. Neither is emblematic of appropriate adult behaviour.”
Have you encountered aisle lice or gate lice on your travels? Please share your frustrations in the comments below!
