The holiday provider Ocean Florida has urged passengers to avoid taking their shoes off when travelling on a plane.

With many popular holiday destinations taking several hours to reach, many tourists look for ways to stay comfortable whilst they are up in the air.

Discussing annoying habits they have experienced, an unnamed British Airways flight attendant noted that removing shoes on flights can be incredibly unhygienic.

They explained: “My most hated habit is when passengers get their bare feet out on the plane. Not only is it unpleasant for other travellers and attendants nearby, but it’s also extremely unhygienic.

“While cabins are cleaned before every flight, there’s rarely enough time to disinfect and deep clean floors and bathrooms. We’d never advise moving throughout the aircraft barefoot or just wearing socks – you never know what you might be walking on – especially in the bathroom.”

Despite a recent study finding that 44 percent of tourists find it annoying, many passengers remove their shoes to feel more comfortable on planes.

However, when moving around the plane, such as visiting the bathroom, it is easier for tourists to pick up and spread bacteria.

In addition, some flight experts have argued that not having shoes on in the unlikely event of a plane crash could put passengers at a higher risk of injuries.

Abby Dunn, Marketing Manager at Ocean Florida, recommended that tourists looking to feel comfortable on board a long-haul flight should bring a pair of slippers.

She added: “The best thing you can do to ensure maximum comfort and cleanliness while on long-haul journeys is to bring a pair of slippers which can be worn during the flight.

“You can even keep these to wear around your hotel or holiday villa while away, as well as on your return flight home.”

In addition, Abby suggested that flight attendants always prefer guests who are mindful of their actions and show their appreciation to members of staff.

She continued: “Travellers who have an awareness of flight etiquette make the job so much easier – for example keeping their designated area tidy, engaging in conversation and not being overly demanding. These habits make the journey much smoother for everyone.

“As flight attendants, we also always appreciate passengers who are thoughtful enough to bring us small gifts or chocolate – and this will usually get you some preferential treatment while on board.”