18 Secrets Airlines Don’t Want You to Know About Your Next Flight
Many take to the skies with excitement, anticipation and sometimes mystery, but only few know just how many behind the scenes factors play into a flying experience. There’s a world of airborne secrets few know about, from those surprising little practices airlines prefer to keep quiet, to clever tricks that can make your journey more comfortable.
While smiling flight attendants, complex scheduling systems and detailed security protocols are all part of the picture, airlines are managing a delicate dance to keep planes in the sky and costs down. These secrets sometimes work in favor of passengers, and sometimes they’re designed to save on costs and keep people flying without getting too deep. An insider look at some little known facts may change the way you think about your next flight.
Seat Selection Doesn’t Ensure Your Seat
Have you ever chosen the perfect window seat online only to be shuffled around when it’s time to board? Flights are notorious for overbooking, and airlines occasionally move seats. It’s not just to cram more into space, but to keep flights as full as possible. Airlines have the right to move you around, but choosing your seat can help. Don’t get too attached to that window view, so!
Flight Times Are Padded
Don’t be fooled if it feels like your flight arrived early. Typically, airlines factor more time into flight schedules so as to appear on time. An early arrival is often just that, a little extra cushion built into the schedule. It’s a great trick to make it seem like everything is running smoothly when there’s a little bit of turbulence.
The Air Isn’t as Fresh as You’d Hope
Brisk breeze from the overhead vent? Think that’s keeping things fresh? Not quite. However, a lot of the cabin air gets recirculated, with only a small amount changing with outside air. The filtration is good, but the air is dryer than most environments, and not as fresh as you’d think. The dryness can be fought off with staying hydrated.
The Brace Position Myth
A popular myth is that the ‘brace position’ is to make accidents more survivable. But some say it’s partly a way to cut down on lawsuits by making it less likely passengers will be hurt in minor accidents. While safety professionals say the brace position can save lives, it’s also debated as a way for airlines to limit their liability in less severe accidents.
Food Tastes Different Up High
Have you ever noticed that your taste buds are a little off mid flight? It’s not just you. On the flip side of that, the low cabin pressure and humidity actually dull your sense of taste, especially for the salty and sweet flavors. That’s why in-flight food is often more seasoned than what you’d find on the ground — because this change affects meal choices. That extra salt next time might make a little more sense!
The Outside Can Unlock Plane Lavatories
Have you ever wondered if flight attendants are able to get in the restroom if they need to? Well, they have a hidden latch outside every lavatory door, and they can use it if need be. Flight crew members can even use the restroom if it’s occupied if there’s an emergency. It’s a safety feature, but it’s rarely used unless absolutely necessary.
Your Luggage Might Not Travel With You
Even if you checked in several hours before, your bag won’t necessarily be on the same flight as you. If the plane’s weight is too high, sometimes luggage is left behind intentionally. It usually catches up with you on the next flight available but it’s always a risk to keep in mind if you’re in a rush.
First in Line Doesn’t Always Mean First Class
Does it seem like paying for a first class ticket guarantees you priority at every step? Not quite. First class passengers usually board early and sit better than economy flyers, but sometimes they wait with economy flyers for bags and even for clearance through customs. The extra legroom doesn’t mean that first class ticket guarantees all around VIP treatment, so you’ll need to pack a little patience.
Hidden Fees Abound
Have you ever been surprised by an unexpected fee? Airlines have become masters at adding extra costs from baggage to snacks. At first it seems like a good deal, but the extras can add up quickly. A good reminder to re-read the fine print before you book.
Pilots Take Naps Too
Don’t worry, the plane isn’t on autopilot the whole way, but pilots do take short naps, even on longer flights. The quick rests are planned so that they’re alert when they’re at their most needed. Copilots or automated systems often keep things in check and your flight’s in good hands even if the crew takes a few winks.
You Might Be Sitting on a Lightly Cleaned Seat
Cleanliness takes a back seat to punctuality for airlines, who have tight schedules. Regular cleaning occurs with major cleaning, but quick turnarounds can mean seat pockets and tray tables get a minimum once over. You may want a little hand sanitizer and a disinfectant wipe in your carry on.
The Real Cost Of Your in Flight Meal
Not only are those prepackaged meals expensive in dollars, they are also expensive in storage and logistics. To make a profit, airlines must keep costs low, and food is one of the big places to cut corners. Meals are prepped days in advance and carefully stored to last the journey, so that $10 sandwich could feel like an expensive TV dinner.
Car Seatbelts Are Stronger Than Seatbelts On Planes
You might be surprised to learn that airplane seatbelts aren’t designed to withstand the same forces that car seatbelts are. They’re not meant to be as safe as car restraints, but they’re designed to prevent you from hitting the ceiling in turbulence. That’s why it’s so important to follow the seatbelt signs and instructions during takeoff, landing and turbulence.
Cost Cutting Is Tied to Staff Bonuses
Flight attendants and ground crew often have bonuses tied to saving costs, and airline employees in general. It can be as simple as reducing waste to speeding up boarding and cutting down on delays. It’s a reminder that employees are motivated to keep the process running, even if it means sacrificing some customer perks.
Oxygen Masks Don’t Last Long
In an emergency, oxygen masks drop automatically, but they only supply 12 to 15 minutes of oxygen. That might not seem like much, but it’s typically enough for the pilot to descend to a lower altitude where passengers can breathe normally. If you find yourself ever needing to use that mask, remember it’s meant to let you get to a safer altitude.
Wi-Fi Can Be Spotty on Purpose
Many airlines tout Wi-Fi on board, but the connection isn’t always reliable. There’s bandwidth to be had, and some airlines throttle Wi-Fi on purpose to keep speeds bearable for everyone on board. If you’re looking for a steady connection for streaming, don’t be surprised if the sky-high service doesn’t quite live up to your expectations.
Crew Rest Areas Are Hidden
Flight attendants work long hours and on long flights, they need rest breaks too. Crew members can take a quick nap in most large planes, which have hidden rest areas, usually reached by a ladder or hidden door. These tucked away bunks keep them fresh and ready to handle any mid air surprises that may pop up.
Certain Items Can Be More Relaxed in Terms of Security
Airport security is strict, but some items fly under the radar more than you’d think. If you pack small items correctly, they often go overlooked, such as small tools, small items like liquids under a certain size and certain medications. But don’t push your luck because security is always changing its methods.
Weather Can Be a Convenient Excuse
Weather is usually the culprit for delays, but sometimes it’s a convenient excuse for other hold ups such as technical problems or crew shortages. It’s a convenient catch-all explanation that the airline isn’t always liable for compensation because of weather related delays. If your flight is delayed due to weather, it might be worth a few questions.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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