'Rude AF!': Why this airport behaviour is sparking outrage among passengers

Airports are supposed to be places of excitement and anticipation, but there's one habit that's leaving passengers frustrated and ready to vent.

What started as a simple observation soon became a point of contention that travellers everywhere could relate to.

Now, the question is: why do so many people continue to ignore basic airport etiquette?


Travelling can bring out the worst in some people—especially at airports.

A Melbourne local took to social media to vent about a frustrating encounter at baggage claim after arriving on a packed international flight.

'I returned to Melbourne last night on an international full flight, and the lack of self-awareness from some people was astounding,' they began.


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Baggage claim chaos sparks online debate. Image source: Reddit/Fairy_mistress


The post revealed how some passengers ignored clear signage that instructed everyone to stay behind the yellow line at baggage collection.

They added: 'Despite the clear signs instructing passengers to stay behind the yellow line at baggage collection, many ignored them, standing right in front of it.'

As someone who is shorter, the poster struggled to see over a 6ft man.

After snapping a photo, more people stood directly in front, prompting the traveller to speak up.

They said: 'At that point, I firmly said in a loud voice: “Stand behind the yellow line; it’s there for a reason.” Thankfully, they moved.'

'Seriously, what is wrong with people? There’s plenty of space around—why stand right in front of me? Rude AF!'


The post sparked a heated debate, with other travellers chiming in with similar grievances.

Commenters sympathised with the Melbourne local, describing the behaviour as selfish and inconsiderate.

'I don't understand why people crowd the carousel like this. Everyone could stand back and relax from 3+ metres away,' said one person.

Another agreed, recalling a recent trip: 'When I was coming home from my holiday a couple of weeks ago, this is exactly what irked me. I couldn’t see shit which made me cross the line too. This was a bit of a cultural shock after coming from Japan where everyone stayed behind the yellow line.'


Others added that this behaviour likely wasn’t isolated to baggage claim.

'People that think they’re more important than everyone else,' said one commenter.

One person joked: 'Those two are probably the first to stand up and get their carry-on bags out of the overhead compartments as soon as the wheels touch down.'

Despite the frustration, some felt the issue wasn’t worth getting worked up over.

'I just say “excuse me” and reach between people to grab my bag. Most people get out of your way,' said one user.

'Christ, call in the special forces for this,' another added with sarcasm.


Another person shared their more laid-back approach, saying: 'Ah, flights are tough, just try and stay zen. People standing there is hard to control and nearly inevitable, but getting annoyed by them is fully within your power.'

One commenter even offered practical advice to avoid the stress of the crowd: 'I was collecting bags in carousel number 1 (international arrival). I noticed most people congregate where the bags drop into the carousel. I waited on the other side with less people and didn't have much issue getting my bags.'

Another tip was to use tech for peace of mind: 'Also helps to put an airtag/tracker in your bag. I set me phone to track, and it would give me a notification when it was close. Didn’t have to watch the carousel like a hawk and can relax in the back away from the crowd.'


In a previous story, a traveller’s nightmare experience at Sydney Airport exposed shocking security concerns.

If you thought baggage claim chaos was bad, wait until you hear what happened at security—read more here.

Key Takeaways
  • A Melbourne traveller shared their frustration on social media about passengers ignoring the yellow line at baggage claim, making it difficult for others to retrieve their luggage.
  • The post sparked a heated discussion, with many agreeing that crowding the carousel is inconsiderate and unnecessary, especially when there is plenty of space to stand back.
  • Some commenters defended the behaviour, suggesting that it’s a minor inconvenience and that staying calm is the best approach when dealing with airport annoyances.
  • Others offered practical solutions, such as standing in less crowded areas or using luggage trackers to avoid the stress of watching the carousel.

Airport etiquette—or the lack of it—always seems to spark debate, especially when it comes to baggage claim chaos.

Do you think people should be more mindful of the yellow line, or is this just part of the travel experience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
 

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