Debate Around Strong Cologne on Flights
Passengers have voiced their concern over a fellow traveler’s overpowering cologne, stirring discussions about scents in cramped airplane cabins.
In a recent post on Reddit’s “R/Delta,” a user shared their experience on a flight from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Atlanta, Georgia. They expressed frustration, stating, “Look, you really don’t need to douse yourself in cologne before boarding. It’s just not necessary. Some of us are allergic.” The post highlighted that strong fragrances can cause discomfort in tight spaces.
Commenters chimed in with their experiences, sharing thoughts on the variety of odors encountered on planes. One user noted, “Perfumes should be subtle—not something that overwhelms.” Another added, “Because of this, I’ve started bringing an inhaler on flights.” A third pointed out that cologne displays in airports often lead to passengers applying too much before flying.
I found another user’s comment interesting: “I’ve mostly noticed this among middle-aged women, but I totally get what you’re saying.” Some even shared personal anecdotes, with one recalling how a female passenger’s perfume triggered an asthma attack, leading them to switch seats in first class for relief.
Humor also played a part, as one user joked about the need for a “smell detector” at boarding gates—suggesting those deemed too fragrant might need to head back for a shower. Others shared tips, like carrying peppermint oil to combat strong scents.
Travel expert Gary Leff commented on the issue, noting that passengers should consider others’ comfort on flights. He mentioned that although personal space is limited, individuals should be mindful of their fragrance use, especially given the airflow systems that can disperse odors throughout the cabin.
He cautioned against bringing smelly food aboard, saying, “Let’s not add to the discomfort by introducing strong food smells.” It seems that traveling with strong scents—whether from colognes or food—can really impact the shared experience of flying.
