10 Flight Secrets Airlines Never Tell Passengers

Flying holds many secrets that airlines don’t typically share with their passengers.

Did you know choosing a seat in the rear section of the plane, particularly near the emergency exits, gives you the best chance of survival in an emergency?

There are also hidden bedrooms for crew members, and your tray table might be dirtier than you think.

Here are 10 insider secrets that will give you a new perspective on air travel. 😊

1. Safest Airplane Seats

a. Safest Places to Sit

Your safest bet is choosing a seat in the rear section of the plane, particularly in the middle seats.
The back third of the aircraft offers better survival chances compared to other sections.
Look for seats that are close to (within 5 rows of) an emergency exit.
Aisle seats a few rows behind the wing exits are particularly good choices.
The rear of the plane shows better survival rates in studied accidents.

b. Areas with Lower Survival Rates

The middle section of the cabin, particularly aisle seats, tends to have lower survival rates.
First-class seats at the front of the plane have a lower survival rate.
Front bulkhead seats are generally considered less protective in accidents.
Window seats typically have lower survival rates compared to aisle seats in fatal events.
While seats over the wing are safer than those in the front of the plane, they’re not as safe as seats in the rear.

c. What This Means for You

Remember that air travel remains one of the safest forms of transportation.
The chances of being in an aircraft incident are incredibly rare.
More important than seat location is paying attention to safety briefings.
Knowing where your nearest exits are and how to use them is crucial.
Being prepared and alert during take-off and landing can make a big difference.

2. The Hidden Reality of Airplane Cleanliness

a. Tray Tables

Consistently ranked as one of the dirtiest surfaces on planes.
Studies show they have up to 8 times more bacteria than lavatory flush buttons.
Often used for various purposes beyond eating, including changing diapers.
Rarely cleaned thoroughly between flights due to time constraints.
You should wipe down your tray table before use or consider using a tray table cover.

b. Seat Pockets

Never thoroughly cleaned, only trash is removed between flights.
Can contain mold, yeast, bacteria, and even E. coli.
Passengers often stuff waste like used tissues and dirty diapers in them.
Avoid using them to store personal items if possible.
If you must use them, consider placing items in a plastic bag first.

c. Lavatories

High-touch surfaces include door handles, flush buttons, and sink taps.
Sink handles often have the highest concentration of germs.
Floor may be wet with urine rather than water.
Use paper towels to touch surfaces and always wear shoes.

d. Headrests and Armrests

Headrests are considered one of the dirtiest areas due to frequent contact.
Armrests are frequently touched but rarely cleaned thoroughly.
Consider bringing a small travel pillow or headrest cover.
Use hand sanitizer after touching these surfaces.

e. Seatbelts and Buckles

Touched by every passenger but not cleaned between each flight.
Wipe down the buckle with a sanitizing wipe if possible.
Use hand sanitizer after fastening.

f. Entertainment Systems

Touchscreens and remotes are rarely cleaned between flights.
Can accumulate germs from countless passengers.
Buttons and screens may harbor bacteria.
Use hand sanitizer after using in-flight entertainment systems.

g. Air Vents and Call Buttons

Frequently touched but rarely cleaned thoroughly.
Can accumulate germs throughout multiple flights.
Consider using a tissue or sanitizing wipe when adjusting air vents.
Clean your hands after using the call button.
Keep your air vent open – it can help create an air barrier around you.

h. Air Quality

Most commercial aircraft use HEPA filters, which remove 99.97% of airborne particles.
Cabin air is completely changed every three minutes while cruising.
About 40% of cabin air is filtered, while 60% is fresh air from outside the plane.

3. Airplane Cabin Windows, Chimes, and Indicators

a. Airplane Window Design

Features three separate acrylic panes working together for safety.
Outer pane bears the primary responsibility for maintaining cabin pressure.
Middle pane contains a small “bleed hole” for pressure equalization.
Inner pane serves as a protective barrier for passengers.
Bleed hole prevents fogging and frost formation on windows.
This triple-pane system ensures optimal visibility and passenger safety.

b. Cabin Safety Indicators

Red or black triangles are strategically placed along cabin walls.
These markers provide optimal wing and engine viewing positions.
Flight attendants use these points for checking the wings, flaps, and slats during flight.
Passengers can use these markers for the best external views.
Located at specific points where wing and engine visibility is clearest.

c. Chimes on Airplanes

A single chime often means a passenger has pressed the call button or the captain has turned the seatbelt sign on or off.
Double chime signals the aircraft passing through 10,000 feet.
Three chimes in a row can have different meanings depending on the airline. It might signal an emergency, severe turbulence, or simply be a call for the chief flight attendant.

4. Skip the Airline Blankets and Pillows

a. The Truth About Airline Blankets and Pillows

Ever wonder if those blankets in plastic bags and uncovered pillows are fresh? Unfortunately, they might not be.
Most airlines only provide truly clean items on the first flight of the day.
Used blankets are often just refolded and resealed in plastic bags.
While practices vary between airlines, this reuse is more common than you might think.

b. Health and Hygiene Considerations

Think about how many passengers may have used these items before you.
Without proper washing between uses, both can harbor germs and bacteria.
Even if blankets look clean in their plastic wrapper, there’s no guarantee they’re fresh.
Exposed pillows are particularly concerning as they collect dust, hair, and oils from previous users.
Some airlines have better cleaning practices than others, but it’s hard to know for sure.

c. Smart Solutions for Cozy Travel

Bring your own travel blanket for long flights.
Bring a personal neck pillow for better sleep and hygiene.
Consider compact, washable options that won’t take up much space.

5. Check Your Under Seat Life Vest

a. Where to Find Your Life Vest & Why to Check

Your life vest is stored in a pouch under your seat.
By law, every seat must have one.
Taking just a moment to check could make a big difference in an emergency.

b. Why Life Vests Sometimes Go Missing

Unfortunately, some people take them as souvenirs.
Flight crews do regular checks, but things can change between flights.
Missing vests can create serious safety risks.
Airlines work hard to prevent theft but it still happens.

c. What You Can Do to Stay Safe

Take a quick look under your seat before take-off.
Just reach down and feel for the vest pouch.
If you can’t find it, let a flight attendant know right away.
Don’t feel shy about reporting it – crew members appreciate your help keeping everyone safe.
It might delay things briefly, but your safety is worth it.

6. Free Items Airlines Will Give You When Asked

a. Comfort Essentials

Don’t hesitate to ask for these comfort boosters:

Eye masks to help you catch some sleep
Earplugs to block out noise
Slippers to keep your feet comfortable

Pro tip: Request these items early in the flight while supplies last!

b. Personal Care Kit

Your flight attendants can provide:

Basic toiletry items like toothbrush and toothpaste
Hand lotion for dry airplane air
Sanitizing wipes to keep your area clean
Mouthwash for freshening up

Remember: These items are especially common on long-haul flights

c. Health and Wellness

Available medical supplies include:

Basic pain relievers
Band-aids for minor cuts
Motion sickness tablets
Antacids for upset stomach

Important: Always let crew know about any medical concerns

d. Food and Drinks

Did you know you can often get:

Extra snacks if you’re still hungry
Special drinks like hot chocolate or tomato juice
Don’t be shy to ask for additional servings – flights typically carry extra meals that often go unused

Tip: Being polite goes a long way when making these requests!

e. Entertainment Extras

Keep yourself or kids occupied with:

Playing cards on select airlines
Coloring books and crayons for children
Pens and writing materials
Activity packs for younger travelers

Bonus: See if you can visit the cockpit after landing (especially exciting for kids).

7. Why Airlines Really Want Your Window Shade Up

a. Why It’s Important

Flight attendants rely on open shades to quickly spot external hazards like fire, smoke, or debris.
Take-off and landing are statistically the most critical phases of flight, which is why crews are strict about this rule.
For exit row passengers, clear visibility is crucial – you must assess outside conditions before opening emergency doors.

b. Emergency Response Benefits

In case of emergency, open shades allow crew to:

Quickly determine which side of the aircraft is safer for evacuation.
Guide passengers to the safest exit routes.
Assess external conditions before initiating evacuation procedures.

The natural light helps:

Maintain everyone’s situational awareness.
Keep passengers calm through visibility of surroundings.
Coordinate emergency responses more effectively.

8. Ever Wonder About Airplane Food

a. The Journey from Kitchen to Sky

Your airplane meal begins its journey long before take-off – it’s prepared 12 to 72 hours before your flights.
Instead of regular freezing, your food goes through something called blast-chilling, which helps keep the food tasting fresh and maintains its texture.
When you’re in the air, flight attendants warm up your meal in special ovens designed specifically for airplane use.
If you’re traveling in business or first class, you often get restaurant-quality meals with premium ingredients and multiple courses.
Some luxury airlines like Etihad Airways offer personal chefs in first class who can prepare fresh meals during your flight.

b. Why Does Airplane Food Taste Different?

Altitude Effects: At cruising altitudes, the lower air pressure and dry cabin air can dull your sense of taste and smell.
Dry Cabin Environment: The cabin air is extremely dry, which affects your ability to taste flavors fully.
Taste Perception Changes: Sweet and salty flavors can be perceived as 15-30% less intense due to altitude changes.

c. Tips for Better-Tasting Flights

Want to enjoy your meal more? Try wearing noise-canceling headphones.
Scientists have found that loud airplane noise can actually dull your taste buds.
Stay hydrated! Drinking water helps combat the dry cabin air.

d. What’s Different About Pilot Meals?

Pilots don’t eat the same meals as passengers – or even each other.
The captain and co-pilot always get different meals.
Often, the captain might get a first-class meal while the co-pilot enjoys a business-class option.
Airlines take extra care with pilot meals to ensure they’re fresh and safe.

e. Safety First: Why Pilots Eat Different Meals

This isn’t about rank or privilege – it’s all about safety!
If one meal source has an issue, at least one pilot will still be fine.
Pilots eat at different times, usually with at least an hour gap between meals.
Think of it as an aviation safety net – there’s always a backup plan.
This practice has been standard for decades and helps keep flights safe.

9. Hidden Truths of Airplane Boarding

a. Smart Timing Strategies

Consider boarding towards the end if you only have a small carry-on.
Benefits of boarding later include:
- Less time sitting on the plane
- More comfortable waiting in the terminal
- Avoid the crowded lines and board in a more relaxed manner
However, board earlier if you need overhead bin space for larger bags.

b. Understanding Your Boarding Pass Details

Your boarding pass contains sensitive details.
Key information includes:
- Your unique booking code (PNR)
- Travel dates and flight details
- Personal identification data
Always dispose of boarding passes securely – never in public trash bins.
Consider using mobile boarding passes for added security.

c. Understanding Security Screening

If you see “SSSS” printed on your boarding pass, it means you’ve been selected for Secondary Security Screening Selection.
This selection may occur due to:
- Last-minute ticket purchases
- One-way fare bookings
- Tickets purchased with cash
If selected, stay calm and allow extra time before your flight.
Security staff will guide you through any additional steps.

10. How Pilots and Crew Rest During Flights

a. Pilot Rest Rules

One pilot can nap for 20 minutes while co-pilot stays in control.
Never both pilots sleeping at same time.
Special rest areas near cockpit with beds and lavatory for long flights.
Interphone system used to coordinate pilot shifts and emergencies.

b. Flight Attendant Rest Areas

Hidden rooms above or below passenger cabin.
Secret entrance through doors resembling closets or bathroom.
Bunk beds with pillows, duvets, and safety belts.
Accessed by narrow stairs.
Connected to cabin via interphone for urgent calls.

c. Rest Time Management

Crew takes turns for rest breaks.
Scheduled rest periods ensure constant cabin coverage.
Team members use interphone to wake others when break ends.

Extra Tip: Secret Language of Flight Attendants

a. Common Flight Attendant Terms

Pax: A short way to say “passenger.” If you hear “150 pax”, it simply means there are 150 passengers on board.
George: When the crew mentions this name, they’re talking about the autopilot system. For example, “George is flying” means autopilot is on.
Blue Juice: This term refers to the blue-colored liquid used in airplane lavatories. If you hear that the “lav is out of blue juice”, it means the lavatory needs servicing.
Blue Room: The bathroom on an airplane is often referred to as the “blue room” due to the blue liquid used in the toilets.

b. Passenger Codes and References

M. (Unaccompanied Minor): This refers to children traveling alone who require special attention from the flight crew.
Specials: Passengers needing extra assistance, such as those with mobility issues, are referred to as “specials”.
Spinner: A passenger without a seat assignment who boards last-minute and looks for an available seat.
Runner: A passenger who arrives late and rushes to board the plane before departure.

c. In-Flight Operations

Cross-Check: A safety procedure where flight attendants verify that aircraft doors are properly armed or disarmed before take-off and landing.
All-Call: After a cross-check, an all-call is made where flight attendants confirm that all safety checks are complete using the internal phone system.
Chimes: The various dings you hear during a flight signal different things, such as a call from the cockpit or a passenger request.
Code Words: Flight attendants use codes like “Code Bravo” for fire alerts or “Code Red” for medical emergencies to communicate discreetly.
Crotch Watch: Refers to checking that all passengers have their seat belts fastened before take-off and landing.