Not yours to keep, not even in business class (unlike pyjamas, which are gifted). Airline blankets are gathered at the end of the flight, washed at industrial laundry centres and then redistributed. Some carriers, especially those based in the US, will let you buy blankets from the in-flight magazine should you desire.

In 2026, the general rule remains that you are not allowed to keep airline blankets in most classes of service. On the vast majority of commercial flights, blankets and pillows provided in Economy and Premium Economy are considered airline property that must be laundered and reused for future flights. Taking them is technically considered theft, and airlines have become increasingly strict about this to manage costs and sustainability goals. However, there are exceptions: on some long-haul international flights in First or Business Class, airlines may provide high-end, "branded" amenity kits or pajamas that are yours to keep. Occasionally, ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) may sell you a blanket as an add-on, in which case it is yours. If the blanket is wrapped in plastic and looks disposable, it is still likely intended for reuse. To be safe in 2026, always assume the blanket stays on the plane unless it was explicitly purchased or you are in a premium cabin where the crew confirms it is a gift; otherwise, you might find yourself facing an awkward request from a flight attendant to return it.