In general, airlines expect passengers to wear shoes that are appropriate and comfortable for the duration of the flight. Avoiding shoes with excessive heels, open toes, or slippery soles is advisable, as they may pose safety concerns or discomfort during the journey.

For most travelers, it is better to wear closed-toe shoes on a plane rather than sandals, primarily for reasons of safety, hygiene, and comfort. From a safety perspective, in the unlikely event of an emergency evacuation, sturdy shoes provide much better protection against debris, fuel, or rough terrain than sandals or flip-flops. From a hygiene standpoint, airplane floors and restrooms are not environments where you want bare skin exposed, and having socks on makes the security screening process much more pleasant if you are asked to remove your shoes. Additionally, airplane cabins are notoriously chilly due to the high-altitude air conditioning, and feet often swell during long flights; breathable sneakers or loafers with a bit of "stretch" offer the best balance of warmth and support. If you prefer the ease of sandals, a supportive peer tip is to wear them with socks or pack a pair of "plane socks" in your carry-on to keep your feet warm and clean. While sandals are convenient for tropical destinations, the "grounded" choice for the actual journey is a comfortable, supportive shoe that you can easily slip on and off for security.