When it comes to flying, there are several “secrets” about air travel that airlines often don’t share with passengers, mainly because they may not always be in the airline’s best interest or might make flying seem more complicated. However, understanding these secrets can help passengers make their travel experience smoother and more comfortable.
3. The Airplane’s Cabin Isn’t Fully Cleaned Between Flights: While flight crews do clean between flights, deep cleaning isn’t usually done unless a plane is taken out of service for an extended period. This means that trays, seat belts, and overhead compartments may not be as spotless as you might think. It’s a good idea to wipe down surfaces and wash your hands frequently.
5. Window Shades Are for Safety, Not Just Comfort: During takeoff and landing, the window shades are required to be open, not just to let passengers enjoy the view. It’s a safety measure designed to help passengers see outside in case of an emergency evacuation, as well as to allow emergency responders to see into the cabin.
6. Airplane Food Isn’t Always Fresh: Airline meals are often prepared hours or even days before your flight. They’re kept in a sealed container and then reheated on the plane. While they meet safety standards, they’re not the freshly made meals they might seem.
7. Planes Are Usually Empty During Maintenance: Before each flight, airplanes undergo extensive maintenance and inspection. While passengers might assume that a plane is just sitting idle, many are carefully inspected, cleaned, and sometimes even have parts replaced. This ensures that the aircraft is in top condition before each flight.
8. Turbulence Is Normal and Safe: Many passengers fear turbulence, but pilots and flight attendants are trained to handle it. Turbulence is a common and generally harmless part of flying, caused by changes in air currents. While it can be uncomfortable, it rarely poses any real danger to the plane.
9. Your In-Flight Entertainment Might Be Hacked: In rare cases, personal information can be accessed through the in-flight entertainment systems, especially if you connect your devices to the plane’s Wi-Fi. Using a VPN or avoiding logging into sensitive accounts during your flight can minimize these risks.
10. Airplanes Are Equipped with Advanced Technology to Prevent Collisions: Modern airplanes come with sophisticated collision avoidance systems that are designed to prevent crashes, even in busy airspace. These systems are continuously monitored by air traffic controllers, further ensuring passengers’ safety.
These flight secrets reveal that while air travel may seem like a simple process, there’s much more going on behind the scenes. Passengers who are aware of these secrets can approach flying with a greater understanding of what keeps them safe and comfortable during their journey