13 Strange Things People Do Before Boarding a Flight Around the World

I’ve always found airports to be strange places — a mix of excitement, nerves, and weird rituals that travelers swear by.

Over the years, I’ve watched people do some really unusual things before hopping on planes.

Some of these habits had me scratching my head, others made me smile, and a few even inspired me to try them myself.

That’s why I put together this list of 13 strange things people do before boarding flights around the world.

These rituals range from the sweet to the downright bizarre, and they show how culture, superstition, and personal quirks come together in moments of travel.

If you want to know what’s “normal” in other countries before you take off, or maybe find a new pre-flight ritual to try, this article is for you.

1. Japan — Bowing to the Plane

In Japan, some travelers bow toward the airplane before boarding.

It’s a sign of respect to the aircraft and the crew, almost like a silent thank you for a safe journey ahead.

I caught this once at Narita Airport, and it felt surprisingly calming.

Bow, breathe, and then step on board.

2. India — Spinning in a Circle

One traveler I met in Mumbai told me that spinning in a circle three times before boarding helps avoid bad luck during the flight.

It sounds odd, but I’ve seen people do it in quiet corners of the airport, almost like a secret dance.

I tried it myself once — it made me laugh, but hey, no turbulence that day!

3. Mexico — Kissing the Plane’s Door

In Mexico, it’s common for some passengers to kiss the plane’s door before getting on.

It’s a superstition for good luck and safe travel.

I saw this at Mexico City airport and couldn’t help but smile.

It felt like a sweet goodbye ritual between traveler and machine.

4. Thailand — Chanting a Blessing

Before boarding, some Thai travelers quietly chant blessings or prayers for a safe flight.

It’s a calming ritual rooted in Buddhist tradition.

I remember hearing soft chants in the background as I waited to board a flight from Bangkok.

It gave the space a peaceful vibe amid airport chaos.

5. Turkey — Touching the Plane

In Turkey, some people gently touch the aircraft’s exterior as a way to connect with it before flying.

It’s like saying, “let’s do this together.”

I saw a family do this once, and it felt like a moment of trust, almost like a silent handshake.

6. Brazil — Jumping Up and Down

Some Brazilian travelers jump up and down right before boarding, believing it helps ward off any bad energy.

I found this out in São Paulo, where a group of friends made a game of it.

It looked goofy, but it definitely lifted their spirits.

7. Russia — Making the Sign of the Cross

Orthodox Christian travelers in Russia often make the sign of the cross before boarding.

It’s a way to ask for protection on the journey.

I witnessed this in Moscow, and it reminded me how faith shapes even the smallest travel moments.

8. Italy — Throwing a Coin

In Italy, some travelers toss a coin into a fountain near the airport or simply toss it up in the air before boarding, hoping for good fortune.

I tried this near Rome’s airport — you never know, right?

9. South Korea — Waving to the Plane

In South Korea, it’s common to wave at the plane as it prepares to board.

It’s a friendly, almost playful gesture to say goodbye to the ground before taking off.

I gave it a try in Seoul — felt a bit silly but oddly satisfying.

10. Australia — Taking a Deep Breath Outside the Gate

Many Aussies pause for a deep breath right before stepping through the gate.

It’s a quiet way to reset, shake off travel stress, and get ready for the journey.

I adopted this one quickly — it’s like hitting a calm button.

11. Germany — Checking Luggage Tags Twice

In Germany, some travelers meticulously check their luggage tags and boarding passes one last time before stepping onto the plane.

It’s less superstition, more precision.

I admire this attention to detail, though it sometimes slows down the boarding line!

12. France — Saying Goodbye Loudly

At some French airports, families and friends say a louder-than-usual goodbye before boarding.

It’s emotional, with hugs and kisses exchanged in the terminal.

I once saw a woman wave and shout “À bientôt!” as her husband disappeared down the jetway.

It’s a reminder that travel is as much about people as places.

13. United States — Checking Flight Status One Last Time

In the U.S., a strange but common ritual is checking the flight status app or monitoring one last time before boarding.

It’s the modern traveler’s way of double-checking that everything is still on track.

I’ve caught myself doing this more times than I’d like to admit.

Final Thoughts

Travel isn’t just about moving from point A to B — it’s filled with little rituals that bring comfort, luck, or connection.

These strange pre-flight habits show how culture and personality mix in moments of uncertainty.

Maybe next time you fly, you’ll try one of these odd but meaningful rituals yourself.

After all, a little weirdness before takeoff might just be the best way to start an adventure.