During my recent long flight with Jetstar Airline from Australia to Thailand with my three young children, I was deeply disturbed by the content displayed on a nearby passenger’s screen. The person in front of us, across the aisle, was watching a  mature movie with explicit pornographic content, followed by a violent horror film. As someone who avoids pornography and graphic violence, I found it distressing and had to shield my children from seeing it. Despite my efforts, it was difficult to avoid, especially when going to bathrooms. Other passengers’ children also walked by and were exposed to the inappropriate content. This situation was both stressful and unacceptable.

People who watch explicit or violent content are often defensive if asked to stop, and no one wants to create conflict during a flight. This is why regulations are crucial. It’s not only about protecting children—many individuals with mental health conditions can be deeply disturbed by such content but feel unable to speak up due to social anxiety. Airlines need to step up and ensure everyone can have a comfortable and safe flying experience.

I am calling on airlines to implement restrictions on the display of violent and pornographic content on in-flight screens to protect children and sensitive viewers from unwanted exposure.