Paul Rudd takes aim at airline safety instructions in viral podcast clip

Paul Rudd has sparked conversation online after taking aim at common airline rules, calling parts of standard flight etiquette “nonsense” during a recent podcast appearance.

The Ant-Man star made the remarks while speaking on Jake Shane’s podcast Therapuss, where he questioned routine pre-landing and pre-takeoff instructions, including tray table positioning, seat adjustments, and switching phones to airplane mode.

“I think all of that is nonsense,” the 57-year-old actor said, drawing a strong reaction from listeners as the clip circulated online.

When asked specifically about airplane mode, Rudd doubled down on his skepticism, saying, “I know it’s nonsense,” suggesting he does not fully see the practical need for the setting during flights.

Podcast host Jake Shane responded by joking that he activates airplane mode mainly to save battery since the phone won’t function properly anyway, adding a lighthearted exchange to the discussion.

Rudd also acknowledged that some airline rules are linked to concerns about radio frequency interference with aircraft systems, though he appeared unconvinced about their strict enforcement in everyday travel situations.

Aviation experts, however, have previously noted that mobile devices may still interfere with cockpit communications and pilot headsets, which is why airlines continue to recommend or require certain precautions during flights.

Elsewhere in the conversation, the Clueless actor also defended passengers who stand up quickly after landing, saying he sees no major issue with people getting out of their seats once the plane has touched down.

“I think it’s all right,” he added, keeping his stance casual despite the broader debate around flight safety and passenger behavior.

The comments have since fueled discussion online about modern air travel etiquette, with many users split between agreeing with Rudd’s relaxed approach and defending standard aviation rules.