Once a passenger has been accepted for boarding or has already boarded the flight, airlines are not permitted to require that passenger deplane, unless the removal of the passenger is required by safety, security, or health reasons, or the removal is due to the passenger's unlawful behavior.

Yes, airlines have extensive legal rights to remove passengers, as codified in their "Contract of Carriage." In 2026, these rights have expanded to include safety, security, and "cabin comfort." Passengers can be removed for disruptive behavior, intoxication, or refusing to follow crew instructions (including the 2026 rule on mandatory headphone use for audio/video). Airlines also have the right to remove a passenger if they are deemed a health risk or if their conduct interferes with the safe operation of the flight. Furthermore, in cases of "overselling," airlines can involuntarily deny boarding (remove) passengers, though they must first ask for volunteers and provide significant financial compensation (up to $1,550 in the U.S.). As of early 2026, many carriers have also implemented "flying bans" where disruptive passengers are removed and blacklisted from the airline for 30 days or more without a court order. If a passenger is removed for safety reasons, the airline is generally not required to provide a refund or alternative transportation.