Aviation explained

What is a jet tag?

By the AvTags team · Updated 2 November 2026

In short

A jet tag is a slim, double-sided fabric tag, usually about 13 cm × 3 cm, that clips onto keys, bags or zips.
The style comes from the red Remove Before Flight streamers used on aircraft, which is why they are also called flight tags or aviation tags.
They are made three main ways: embroidered, woven (jacquard) or dye-sublimation printed.
People use them as keychains, bag tags and collectibles, and they are a popular small gift.

Where does the name “jet tag” come from?

Military and airline ground crews fit bright red streamers to covers and safety pins on parked aircraft. Each one reads REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT and must be pulled off before the aircraft leaves. (We explain the original tags in detail in what Remove Before Flight means.)

Those streamers became popular souvenirs, and shorter versions made for keys took on names like jet tag, flight tag and aviation tag. Today the format is used for every kind of design, not just aviation, but the shape is the same: a long, narrow, double-sided fabric strip with a metal ring at one end.

How are jet tags made?

There are three common methods. Each gives a different look and feel.

Embroidered

Thread is stitched onto a twill base. The design is slightly raised, which gives the classic textured feel of a real Remove Before Flight tag. Embroidery suits bold text and simple shapes, and the stitching is very hard-wearing.

Woven (jacquard)

The design is woven into the fabric itself rather than stitched on top. The surface is flatter and smoother, and small text and fine lines come out sharper than with embroidery.

Sublimation printed

Dye is printed into polyester fabric using heat. This allows full-colour artwork, gradients and illustrations that would be impossible to stitch, so it is used for detailed designs like landscapes and characters.

Each AvTags product page lists its method under Product Details, so you can see whether a tag is embroidered, woven or printed before you buy.

Jet tags vs metal aviation tags

You may also see metal “aviation tags” cut from the skin of retired aircraft. They are a different product: a small piece of real fuselage, usually sold with the aircraft’s registration and history. They are heavier, cost more and are made in limited numbers because each aircraft only provides so much metal.

Fabric jet tags are lighter, softer on keys and phones, and much cheaper, which makes them easier to collect and give as gifts. Many collectors own both.

What are jet tags used for?

Keychains. The most common use. A long tag makes keys easy to find in a bag or a dark pocket.
Bag and luggage tags. Clipped to a zip or handle, a bright tag helps you spot your bag on a carousel.
Flight bags and crew kit. Pilots and cabin crew use them to personalise flight cases and lanyards.
Collecting. Airport, aircraft, airline and limited-edition creator designs make jet tags easy to collect.
Gifts. They are small, light and cost less than £10, so they work as a stocking filler or a thank-you.

How to choose a jet tag

Check it is double-sided. A tag spins on a keyring, so a design that reads on both sides looks better.
Pick the method for the design. Choose embroidery for bold, classic text, woven for fine detail, and printed for full-colour art.
Look at the ring. A sturdy split ring or clasp matters more than you would think on something used every day.
Choose something personal. A home airport, a favourite aircraft or a creator they follow means more than a generic tag.

Browse aviation designs, or see the full shop for nature, anime, culture and car designs in the same format.

Questions, answered

What is a jet tag?

A jet tag is a slim, double-sided fabric tag, usually about 13 cm by 3 cm, used as a keychain or bag tag. The style is based on the Remove Before Flight streamers used on aircraft.

What are jet tags used for?

Mostly as keychains and bag or luggage tags. They are also collected and given as small gifts, especially to people who love aviation.

Is a jet tag the same as a flight tag?

Yes. Jet tag, flight tag and aviation tag are all used for the same fabric key tag format, though “aviation tag” is also used for metal tags cut from retired aircraft.

Are embroidered or printed jet tags better?

Neither is better overall. Embroidery is textured and very durable, which suits bold text. Printing allows full-colour artwork. Woven tags sit in between, with sharp fine detail.