air travel

A woman named Maria Dinca has shared a video online urging travellers to follow proper airport security tray etiquette to avoid causing delays for yourself and other travellers

A woman named Maria Dinca has urged people to follow simple ‘airport etiquette’ when going through security as it can help prevent any unnecessary delays.

Whether you’re jetting off on a domestic trip or heading overseas, passing through airport security is an unavoidable part of air travel. You’ll need to place your bags, liquids, electronics, and any metal items through a security scanner to ensure you’re not carrying prohibited goods onto your flight. You’ll also pass through a separate scanner yourself to check for any restricted items. Typically, this process moves fairly swiftly. But during peak travel periods, queues can stretch on for what feels like an eternity – sometimes taking hours if you’re particularly unlucky – potentially causing you to miss your flight if you haven’t arrived with time to spare.

Now, one savvy traveller called Maria Dinca has taken to social media to highlight a common mistake that holidaymakers make at security checkpoints, warning it can cause unnecessary hold-ups for everyone.

In her video, Maria kicked off with: “PSA: airport security tray etiquette,” before demonstrating what she considers the ‘correct’ approach to handling those plastic trays at airport security checks.

In her video, Maria proceeded to demonstrate the correct way to manage your trays at airport security, filming herself navigating through security at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The initial step involved collecting your tray from the conveyor belt whilst your belongings remained inside it.

She then progressed to the second stage, which involves positioning the tray on one of the available counters nearby, allowing you sufficient time to retrieve your items from the tray and reorganise your bag if necessary.

Once finished, you can advance to the third stage, which requires returning your tray to its proper location, enabling it to smoothly travel back to the beginning of the conveyor belt.

“Please don’t leave them sad and lonely like this,” she noted, displaying a queue of numerous empty trays occupying space on the belt, blocking other trays from passing through the security scanner.

She continued in the post’s caption: “Every time I travel I’m amazed how many people just leave them on the conveyor belt, which leads to more delays and more work for airport staff or other passengers to deal with.”

Whilst some viewers supported Maria’s perspective, others mentioned they had been instructed to simply disregard the trays. “Every airport I’ve been to tells you to get all your stuff out of the tray without taking it anywhere then slide it to the stack at the end,” one individual explained, further explaining in a separate comment that they hail from the US and that there are no tables available for unpacking their trays.

In response, Maria said: “Oh that’s interesting! My experience is based on Europe. I’m flying out of the US today though so will now keep an eye out for how it works here.”

The method has has been praised by some but others say it’s a really bad idea

A controversial technique to avoid getting a seat you do not want has been criticised by a number of passengers. Many airlines charge more for seat selection on the plane – or automatically put you in a middle seat.

However, according to one travel specialist, there is a method that can stop the system from giving you a middle seat. And they say it comes without paying anything on top.

Jorden Tually explained the technique in a video on his TikTok account (@jordentually). He said low-cost airlines often automatically assign middle seats to those who select “random seat allocation”.

He says that this encourages passengers to pay for a window or aisle seat. Yet he argues that there is a technique that can help here – although it has been criticised by some online.

He says the method stops the airline’s system from automatically assigning you a middle seat. First up, he said he looks at how many seats of this type are still available on the flight when checking in.

In a test of the method, he said he found a total of 10 middle seats available on a flight. He said the next step is to simulate the purchase of that number of tickets.

“I go straight to the website and pretend to buy 10 more middle seats,” he said. He said when doing this, he enters the name of each made-up passenger.

You can just put in ‘a bunch of letters in there,’ he said. Then, in the seat assignment, he selects all the middle seats or those he wants to avoid and clicks ‘continue’.

He said ‘the system is going to hold those seats for about 10 to 15 minutes.’ This is the amount of time users will have to actually check in and get a better seat.

When passengers select ‘random seat allocation,’ the system will not be able to assign the seats it has previously blocked. He said: ‘It only took me two minutes, and now I have a window seat. It has never failed me and is 100% successful when done correctly.”

He advises completing the process from a computer and says it is more effective if done as close to the check-in date as possible, as there are fewer seats available.

But while some praised the technique, others pointed out the obvious consequences it would have. One commenter online said: “OMG, the self-entitled brigade again. If this does work, everyone will now try it, freezing up loads of seats and could stop genuine people wanting to book that flight, all because you think you deserve a better seat than those who have paid.”

Others criticised the idea and said it would lead to prices going up where dynamic pricing is used, which sees prices fluctuate according to demand. One person commented on the YouTube post put up late last month to say: “Don’t you know about airlines’ dynamic pricing??” Yet another echoed this, saying: “Damn, that will spike up cost by 10-20%”

Another person said: “Now you delayed your flight 10 minutes while they wait for the computer queue to clear so other passengers can select their seats.” A further commenter agreed, saying: “This is not a good hack, cause your ticket costs more when the system thinks it’s fully booked.”

Another added: “Congrats. Due to dynamic pricing, you’ve just raised the price of your ticket by 50%”

Cabin crew member Cher shares the insider tricks she uses on every flight – from avoiding being bumped off oversold planes to protecting your skin at 30,000 feet

A cabin crew member has lifted the lid on her insider knowledge and disclosed the tricks she uses when travelling that passengers can adopt too. Flight attendants have racked up some of the best hacks on navigating air travel thanks to travelling the world.

Cher, who has been working on aircrafts for five years, shared three crucial tips she’s gathered during her time in the aviation industry. She ensures she implements her own advice even during personal trips to guarantee her journey runs smoothly.

Her guidelines can be applied by anyone, not just cabin crew, so keep them to hand for your upcoming getaway, reports the Express.

Check-in

Cher’s first recommendation is that she always checks in at the earliest opportunity for her flights when travelling as a passenger. She elaborated: “Airlines often do something called overselling the flight, which is where they sell more tickets than there are actual seats on board.”

The flight attendant explained that typically this system works as numerous passengers tend to miss their booked flight. But if that doesn’t happen, Cher noted you might hear a tannoy announcement at the airport offering vouchers to travellers willing to forgo the flight due to excessive ticket sales.

“If some people won’t take that voucher, it means they are going to bump the last few people that have checked in off of the flight,” she revealed.

“If you are waiting until the last minute to check in for your flight, then you’re going to get bumped onto the next flight either later that day or the next day, which could totally ruin your trip.”

Cher also pointed out that early check-in allows passengers to secure “better” seating options.

Sun cream

The cabin crew member revealed she never boards without SPF protection. Cher highlighted that research has shown airline staff face heightened skin cancer risks.

She explained: “I do my best to try to keep the window shade closed as much as I can.” Regular travellers might want to follow suit by applying sun protection and keeping window blinds down during flights.

Hand luggage

Cher urges people to put important items in carry-on baggage rather than checked suitcases. She even recommends these essentials be kept in the personal bag that sits at your feet.

She warned: “It is not uncommon for somebody to mistake your carry on as theirs and take it off. I have seen this dozens of times.”

Cher advises packing underwear, a toothbrush, toiletries or “anything you couldn’t go a couple days without” in this bag. She noted: “The best thing in aviation is to basically prepare for the worst.

“Flight attendant bags are marked up to the nines with custom tags so we can identify them as ours. I would recommend doing something on your bag that will prevent somebody else from confusing it as theirs.

Brandon Fisher was praised for carrying out the emergency landing of the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 when a door plug panel flew off shortly after takeoff at Portland International Airport

A hero pilot is suing Boeing as he believes the aeroplane manufacturer “attempted to paint him as a scapegoint” following its error that led to an emergency landing.

Brandon Fisher safely brought the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 back to Portland International Airport in Oregon when a door plug panel flew off shortly after takeoff. He was widely praised for the emergency landing as experts believe his quick thinking ensured all of the 171 passengers and six crew members survived the accident.

But Mr Fisher’s lawyers say Boeing has tried to deflect liability in past lawsuits. Four flight attendants previously sued Boeing over the incident last summer. Now, Mr Fisher’s team says Boeing believes it wasn’t responsible for the blowout in January 2024 because the plane was “improperly maintained or misused” by others.

“It was clear Boeing’s words were directed at Captain Fisher in attempt to paint him as the scapegoat for Boeing’s numerous failures,” Mr Fisher’s lawyers, William Walsh and Richard Mummolo, wrote in the lawsuit filed in an Oregon court.

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and even Boeing executives commended Mr Fisher for his heroics following the horror.

The NTSB investigation since then found that four bolts securing what is known as the door plug panel were removed and never replaced during a repair as the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft was being assembled. Boeing and key supplier Spirit Aerosystems, which has since been acquired by Boeing, were both implicated.

The bolts are hidden behind interior panels in the plane, so they are not something that could have been easily checked in a preflight inspection by the pilot or anyone else from the airline. NTSB investigators determined the door plug was gradually moving upward over the 154 flights prior to the incident before it ultimately flew off.

And Mr Fisher’s lawyers wrote in their latest report: “Boeing’s lie infuriated Captain Fisher as well, as he was being castigated for his actions as opposed to being lauded. Because he had flown Boeing aircraft for the entirety of his employment with Alaska Airlines, Boeing’s attempts to blame him felt like a deep, personal betrayal by a company that claimed to hold pilots in the highest regard.”

The NTSB made clear this was caused by a manufacturing issue and the crew’s actions were exemplary. Experienced pilot John Cox, who is CEO of the Safety Operating Systems aviation safety consulting firm, said the crew did a remarkable job considering what they were dealing with, and no one has faulted the crew. Mr Cox said: “I think the Boeing lawyers were kind of grasping at straws.”

Boeing did not comment directly on this new lawsuit. But the company’s CEO, Kelly Ortberg, has made improving safety a top priority ever since he took over the top job at Boeing in August 2024.

Alaska Airlines also declined to comment on the lawsuit, but said the airline remains “grateful to our crew members for the bravery and quick-thinking that they displayed on Flight 1282 in ensuring the safety of all on board.”

If you’re after an affordable holiday, then you’re in luck

The Yuletide season can often leave your purse feeling a tad empty. But, being a bit skint doesn’t mean you have to forego a delightful holiday.

If you’re yearning for a break but need to keep the costs down, then we’ve got good news for you. Skyscanner has put together a list of 10 of the most budget-friendly countries to visit this year, featuring destinations such as the vibrant Czech Republic, Italy’s romantic nooks and crannies, and Norway’s rugged coastlines.

All these spots won’t break the bank, with average return flight prices coming in at £136 or less, reports the Express.

10 of the cheapest places to go in 2026

10. Tromsø, Norway

Average return flight price: £136

It’s famous for the midnight sun and the Northern Lights but Norway has plenty more to offer visitors. From reindeer feeding to arctic fishing trips and more, this stunning Scandinavian country is well worth a visit.

9. Venice, Italy

Average return flight price: £134

The Floating City is famous across the world. Its labyrinthine passages of canals and islands are truly wondrous to behold but it also boasts some amazing architecture and art.

8. Agadir, Morocco

Average return flight price: £130

Built on the shores of a long stretch of golden sand with the Atlantic ocean lapping at the shores, this resort town has it all. From bustling souks to surfing lessons and amazing natural beauty, Agadir is the perfect place to explore. Plus, the average temperature even in January is 20C.

7. Bucharest, Romania

Average return flight price: £128

Sometimes known as ‘little Paris’ due to its elegant architecture, Bucharest is a great place to get away for the weekend. Wander the city’s many parks and snack on delicious street food. If you want to get further afield, then Transylvania is on the city’s doorstep.

6. Berlin, Germany

Average return flight price: £128

This buzzing city is jam packed with history from Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall – but it’s also an amazing place to explore.

Sample coffee and pastries from one of the millions of cafes, wander along the canals or explore the famous nightlife.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Average return flight price: £122

Prague looks like something that is straight from the pages of a fairytale. It’s fabulously well preserved architecture lines the river, offering some truly stunning views.

Why not visit the famous Old Town or wander across the Charles Bridge before stopping in for a drink at one of the city’s many bars?

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Average return flight price: £117

The capital of cool, Copenhagen is at the forefront of fashion and perfect for a cultured weekend away. Cycle along the canals like locals do, enjoy a coffee in one of the trendy cafes and enjoy the world class food scene.

3. Madrid, Spain

Average return flight price: £114

Less touristy than Barcelona, this Spanish city is rich in art and history. Madrid is home to three prestigious art museums and a vibrant food scene. Sample tapas, dine al fresco and then wander through the verdant green spaces of this cool little city.

2. Milan, Italy

Average return flight price: £111

When you hear Milan, you think luxury but this city is actually the second cheapest to fly to. It’s a hub of fashion, art and history but it’s also a perfect starting point to explore some of Italy’s most magical scenery like the Dolomites.

1. Lyon, France

Average return flight price: £105

This walkable city has Roman ruins, UNESCO World Heritage sites and plenty more to explore. Try some of the local delicacies at a traditional bouchon (restaurant) and browse the markets.

A Virgin Atlantic flight attendant with five years’ experience has shared the airplane seats they would never choose – with tips to stay comfortable on long-haul economy flights.

Enduring long-haul flights can be a daunting prospect, especially when you’re crammed into economy class for over 10 hours.

But fear not, there are ways to make the journey more tolerable, comfortable and perhaps even more enjoyable .

Medical travel insurance firm AllClear has joined forces with a seasoned Virgin Atlantic cabin crew member to reveal top tips for maintaining comfort in economy class.

The flight attendant, boasting five years of experience in the skies, shared some seating choices they would personally avoid, reports the Express.

While many passengers opt for the bulkhead, emergency exit rows or seats near the lavatories, this cabin crew member wouldn’t follow suit.

They explained: “I don’t like the first row by the wings. People congregate by the toilet, and it can be noisy because of babies in cradles at the bulkhead.”

Despite this, the extra legroom offered by emergency exit seats makes them a popular choice among travellers, although there could be another issue with this seating placement.

If you do decide to sit there, the crew member advises bringing two essential items with you to make it a more comfortable experience.

They warned: “On some older aircraft, it can get quite chilly near the emergency exit rows. I’d usually avoid these seats if you’re sensitive to the cold.”

For those seeking maximum cosiness during their flight, the flight attendant suggests packing a few additional home comforts to keep you snug and warm.

They stated: “There’s nothing stopping you from bringing extra flight socks or even a hot water bottle – we’re more than happy to fill one up for you during the flight.”

They also expressed their preference against sitting at the rear of the plane due to the noise levels. They explained: “The aft [rear] of the plane can be a bit noisy because toilet flushes are quite loud.

“The seats at the back on all our aircraft recline, so that’s not a problem, but sometimes light catches through the galley curtains on a night flight, and it can be noisy as the crew are working. So, I also wouldn’t choose back row seats.”

Two places cabin crew wouldn’t sit

According to the Virgin Atlantic flight attendant, they wouldn’t sit by:

• the first row by the wings; or
• rear of the plane.

A travel expert has shared six winter sun destinations where it will be 25C and above.

While the UK might be in the grip of a cold snap, there’s still plenty of sunshine to be found elsewhere. If you’re not one for the chilly and dark seasons in the UK, then there are numerous other destinations to consider.

Maria Hughes, a travel expert at Good To Go Travel Insurance, has revealed to the Express her top six winter sun spots that holidaymakers should check out.

From vibrant cities to expansive beaches and lush rainforests, there’s a world of options – and these locations all boast temperatures in the mid to high 20s, ideal for soaking up some rays.

6. Valletta, Malta

This majestic walled city is a popular holiday destination for Brits because it’s just a few short hours away. Not only does Malta have some gorgeous beaches, but it also has winding streets filled with cafes and bars, perfect for exploring.

5. Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa is in full summer splendour, and the views are spectacular. Dine alfresco at the foot of the imposing Table Mountain, or take a cable car up to it and see the landscape spread out beneath you. There are white sand beaches and a bustling harbour to sit at and watch the boats sail to and from.

4. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

White sand, turquoise seas and a gentle breeze rustling the palms as you sit back and relax. The Dominican Republic is a stunning place to explore, and this is no different. This resort town is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a taste of luxury as the warm, balmy weather sweeps over you.

3. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Although this island is not as hot as some of the other places on the list, it’s still a popular winter sun destination for Brits because it’s so easy to get to. Tenerife has jaw-dropping black sand beaches, volcanoes and a bustling Old Town that makes for a fabulous day out.

2. Sri Lanka

January marks the beginning of Sri Lanka’s dry season, so it’s the perfect time to visit for the best weather. You can explore the misty rainforest highlands and drink tea, or just laze around on the beaches and relax.

1. Barbados, Caribbean

Just as in Sri Lanka, January in Barbados is the dry season. This island paradise is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, delicious food and beachfront resorts. You can swim with turtles, explore the coast by boat and experience true Caribbean hospitality.

This 800-year-old village is a must-see in the New Year.

Portugal boasts numerous attractions that draw visitors from across the globe. Lisbon and Porto remain incredibly sought-after destinations, with travellers flocking to wander their charming cobbled lanes and savour exceptional cuisine.

Yet venture beyond these hotspots and you’ll discover a corner of Portugal that remains largely unexplored.

This settlement represents a true hidden treasure, though those who’ve discovered it regard it as amongst the nation’s finest spots to visit.

Indeed, Castelo Novo in Portugal received international acclaim from the United Nations’ World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

The UNWTO assesses settlements using rigorous standards, covering environmental responsibility, prospects for locals, safety measures, plus preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

And Castelo Novo in Portugal secured recognition amongst the globe’s top tourism villages, reports the Express.

This historic community, founded eight hundred years ago, contains one of the area’s most important archaeological locations. The Roman Baths of Quinta do Ervedal represent the main attraction drawing travellers to Castelo Novo.

UNWTO observed: “The oldest mention of Castelo Novo, then called Alpreada, dates back to around 1202 AD. To protect his kingdom against any potential threats, King Dinis rebuilt the village castle adopting typical Gothic features and commissioned several Medieval-style buildings.”

The settlement has also earned praise for its groundbreaking environmental initiatives, becoming Portugal’s first location to reach total carbon neutrality. Castelo Novo offers five electric vehicles to ferry visitors from nearby train stations.

One traveller who visited the village shared: “A secret kingdom. Located in the heart of the Beira Baixa Region, once the capital of Portugal, it is a picturesque stone village that looks out onto the Garduna mountains. It has a terrific visitor centre.”

Another holidaymaker noted: “The castle on top of the hill is a gem. Once at the top the view of the surrounding area is superb even on a grey day.”

Visitors can also learn about the traditional grape-treading methods used by former residents and admire the historic manor houses in the settlement.

Those touring the area can follow the Miller’s Way to see the windmills that were once a crucial part of village life.

The journey to Castelo Novo from Lisbon takes roughly three-and-a-half hours by train or two-and-a-half by car. The village is also conveniently located near Coimbra, a charming riverside city in Portugal with a medieval Old Town.

The drive is just under two hours, making Castelo Novo an easy day trip from the city.

A flight attendant with over five years of experience has shared the ideal seats to book on long-haul flights for maximum comfort – and which rows you should avoid at all costs.

Few experiences test human endurance quite like a marathon economy flight.

Squeezing into those minuscule seats with barely any legroom whilst the journey drags into double-digit hours can push anyone to their limits, yet several strategies can help make the ordeal more bearable.

When embarking on a distant adventure, ensuring your experience is as comfortable as can be is paramount, and industry insiders have shared exactly how to achieve this.

Travel medical insurance specialists at AllClear have collaborated with a seasoned Virgin Atlantic flight attendant to unveil optimal seating choices, areas to steer clear of, and crucially, techniques for snatching some shut-eye during those marathon journeys.

The crew member, boasting over half a decade of flying experience, revealed that nervous flyers should prioritise booking seats positioned above the aircraft’s wings.

They explained: “Seats over the wings usually offer the smoothest ride during turbulence, and the further forward you sit on the aircraft, the less you’ll feel the impact of it.

“Likewise, sitting over the wing is often one of the smoother spots on the plane. Being closest to the aircraft’s centre of gravity, you tend to feel less movement and vibration compared with seats further back.”

Regarding securing some rest during extended flights, striking the right balance proves particularly challenging.

Finding a peaceful spot for slumber becomes essential, though this can prove elusive, the aviation professional warned.

They explained to the Express.: “You can never truly predict the quietest spot on a plane, as it depends on the passengers around you. But the aft [rear] of the plane can be a bit noisy because toilet flushes are quite loud.

“The seats at the back on all our aircraft recline, so that’s not a problem, but sometimes light catches through the galley curtains on a night flight, and it can be noisy as the crew are working. So, I also wouldn’t choose back row seats.”

For the ultimate in-flight experience, the cabin crew member suggested one particular area to aim for when selecting your seat: “The ideal seat would be around five rows from the back, or five rows from the front.

“Crew work front to back simultaneously, or two carts from the front of economy to the back. So, five seats from the front is best as you’ll get your first meal choice.

“It’s also closer to the front for turbulence, as if you’re five from the back you’ll feel it more, and being closer at the front means you’ll get off quicker.”

Airports outside London are set to be ‘most extreme’ as they face ‘unprecedented’ rises

Air travellers are being urged to prepare for soaring ticket prices as regional airports throughout the UK brace for “unprecedented” property tax increases next year. An examination of official Government figures for the Press Association has shown that regional airports are among those confronting the sharpest business rates rises of any industry in the UK during a comprehensive overhaul of property assessments that determine the levy.

While London’s Heathrow and Gatwick are also being hammered with staggering business rates increases, the data reveals that the most severe cases are concentrated beyond London, with regional airports poised to bear the brunt. Global tax consultancy Ryan’s analysis of Valuation Office Agency (VOA) figures discovered that rateable values have rocketed more than six times over in certain instances during the latest property reassessment, causing tax demands to skyrocket.

Despite so-called transitional relief, which caps rises at 30% next year, regional airports will still face some of the most substantial cash hikes nationwide. The majority of airports will witness their bills more than treble over the coming three years.

Manchester Airport stands among the hardest hit, with its business rates demand poised to leap by £4.2 million to £18.1 million next year, Ryan’s figures show. Bristol Airport will experience a £1.2 million jump to £5.2 million, whilst Birmingham International Airport anticipates a £1.8 million surge to £7.6 million.

Newcastle International Airport faces a £244,755 rise to £1.1 million. Alex Probyn, who leads property tax practice for Europe and Asia-Pacific at Ryan, said: “With an unprecedented 295% sector-wide uplift, regional airports simply cannot absorb a cost shock of this magnitude. These increases will inevitably flow through the system: first into airport charges, then into airline costs, and ultimately into ticket prices.”

Airport operators have raised concerns that this tax hike could stifle investment in the sector.

A spokesperson from Manchester Airports Group said: “Airports were already some of the highest rates-payers in the country and were prepared to pay significantly more. But increases of more than 100% mean we have to look again at our plans to invest more than £2 billion in our airports across the UK over the next five years.

“It is inevitable air travel will become more expensive as the industry absorbs these costs. That impacts hard-working people throughout the country and makes global trade harder for businesses.”

AirportsUK, the trade group representing the sector, is formulating a response to the Treasury’s consultation on the business rates plan, which concludes in February. It criticised the plans as “short-sighted” and warned they will “have a knock-on effect for the businesses that depend on airport connectivity in all areas of England”. This threatens to “negatively impacting local economies that depend on the supply chains, tourists and connections their airports provide”, the organisation warned.

The group emphasised the significance of government intervention: “That is why the long-term review into how airport business rates are calculated, also announced by Government, is so important and we will engage with Treasury to ensure this delivers the positive outcome airports need to drive investment and economic growth.”

Additional regional airports bracing for colossal rate hikes include Liverpool Airport facing a £233,100 surge to £1 million, East Midlands International Airport confronting a £437,895 leap to £1.9 million and Bournemouth Airport dealing with a £102,398 jump to £443,723.

Skyscanner recently shared insights into the best and worst times to buy flight tickets

Securing affordable flight deals can often seem impossible, but assistance might just be at hand. Skyscanner recently unveiled insights on the best and worst times to purchase international tickets, spotlighting both seasonal patterns and particular weekdays.

The travel search engine analysed historical data to reveal these trends and also addressed an ongoing debate in holiday planning: is it better to book early or to hold out for last-minute bargains?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a straightforward answer to this, as Skyscanner stressed that it largely depends on the route. Whilst quieter journeys or off-peak days may see price reductions as the departure date approaches, popular routes are likely to witness prices soar dramatically.

Irrespective of the season, Fridays and Sundays consistently emerge as the worst days to book flights due to high demand. However, statistics showed that cheaper fares are usually discovered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when bookings drop off.

“Based on past pricing trends, fares have dropped on Tuesday mornings after Monday deal releases,” Skyscanner wrote earlier this year, according to the Daily Record. When asked if prices decrease nearer a departure date, it added: “Sometimes, especially if seats are still available.

“But prices also tend to rise as departure nears. Last-minute deals exist, but they’re never guaranteed. You can also use the Skyscanner Savings Generator to find the best time to book flights based on your route.”

Skyscanner recommended that travellers book short-haul flights at least one to three months in advance to avoid disappointment. For long-haul journeys, it’s best to secure tickets two to six months before the trip.

Those wishing to monitor fluctuating flight prices can utilise Skyscanner’s alert system. To activate it, simply select a preferred route and click the ‘Get Price Alerts’ button located at the top left corner of the website.

To use this feature, you’ll need a Skyscanner account as alerts will be sent to the email linked with your account. Google also offers a similar alert system within its flight price tracking tool.

Google’s current advice states: “You can track flight prices for specific dates or, if your plans are flexible, any dates. To get flight alerts for a specific round trip, choose your dates and flights and select Search. Then, you can turn on price tracking.”

For more information on Skyscanner’s price-tracking tool, click the link here.

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Long-haul flights can feel daunting for both passengers and cabin crew. But while travellers can sit and put their feet up, what happens to the flight attendants on a long shift?

Travelling is fun but when it’s a long flight, it can feel quite draining for everyone on board. Passengers, however, get to tuck into countless meals served by cabin crew, watch multiple movies back-to-back and relax.

So when travellers get some shut eye, especially if it’s a night flight, those working on the flight still have a job to do. Luckily there are moments of the trip where they can get their feet up for some rest. A long-haul flight shift for cabin crew can reach up to 18 hours, although it’s around 12-16 hours with in-flight rest. This can sometimes extend to longer if there’s any delays along the way.

Now have you ever wondered how they rest? One flight attendant shared a video which showed a secret area where “no passenger is allowed” and it’s only for cabin crew staff to put their feet up.

In a video, Bryan, who boasts 5,000 Instagram followers, said: “People ask me: Where do flight attendants sleep when they have a 17-hour flight?”

Seconds later, he jumps into his pyjamas before taking his phone to show the secret area cabin crew can go to rest during their shift.

The title, which read: “A place where no passenger is allowed”, then shows the attendant walking up some stairs before showing a hidden cabin with beds and curtains.

It’s called CRC which stands for Crew Rest Compartment, and this is where they go when it’s time for their break. In the sleeping area, there is a seatbelt, which must be fastened in case of turbulence, some blankets and, of course, pillows.

There’s also overhead lights and even curtains for privacy, with a TV for “endless entertainment”.

His post garnered hundreds of likes since it was shared as one wrote: “Wow that’s awesome.” Another added: “I would sleep all the way through. No alcohol. No entertainment. Just rest. We need our bodies to perform on Earth. Thanks for sharing.”

A third posted: “Thanks for sharing! So cool to see ‘behind the scenes’ with the crew.”

How do cabin crew survive long-haul flights?

Flight attendants usually rotate their scheduled rest periods by using the hidden crew bunks. By doing this, it ensures there’s coverage during flights up to 16+ hours.

The crew members manage fatigue with routines, wellness, nutrition and use seniority to bid for better schedules, they also balance intense work with multi-day layovers to explore cities or rest before the next leg of their trip, often spanning several days.

Long-haul offers extensive travel for flight crew, while short-haul provides more home time. Often flight attendants choose this based on lifestyle preference.

Meanwhile extended periods away from home are common, with long blocks of days off after demanding trips to recover from the job.

A woman has issued a stark message to anyone travelling by plane this holiday season – as she reminds them to ‘be generous’ following her recent experience on a flight

When travelling on a long-haul flight, many people make sure to pre-book their seats to ensure extra comfort throughout the journey. That’s exactly what one woman decided to do before setting off to visit her family in San Juan, Puerto Rico, knowing she faced a long, uncomfortable journey otherwise.

She pre-booked a first-class window seat on the left side of the plane so she could see her grandma’s house from above before landing. But her peace was disrupted throughout the flight, as no fewer than three people stopped at her row to ask her the same question. Taking to Reddit, she said: “I was asked to switch seats three times by three separate people on one flight.

“When I arrived to my seat there was a very elderly woman in the aisle seat and another woman in the aisle seat across the way. The younger woman said, ‘this is my mother, she has dementia and she can’t even feed herself. Can we switch so I can care for her during the flight?'”

Feeling awkward, the woman regretfully switched seats with her – but her problems didn’t stop there. She said: “I know I made the choice to switch, this is about the frequency of asks.

“Then two other women come up and gave me another ‘we couldn’t book together but we want to sit together can you move to this other aisle seat please?’

“At that point I was seething, but seeing as I’d barely touched my butt to the new aisle seat, I just said ‘whatever’ to them and moved.

“When a third person came up to me to start the ‘hi um’ I immediately said ‘I have switched twice already, you can take it up with someone else’.

“I know I chose to move for these people, but I’m so upset that I paid for that specific window seat and my options were basically, help a woman with dementia but enjoy my view, or move and sit in an aisle seat by the bathrooms.

“I don’t know. It’s also not lost on me that I don’t look like the traditional first class passenger.”

Sharing a message to anyone who asks other to switch mid-flight, she added: “Listen, if you borked your booking and you want to switch with people, be generous.

“Send me a free drink or something, slip me a £20, tell the cabin crew so I get my preordered meal, be generous.”

Commenting on her post, one user said: “Don’t let other people’s problems become your problems. Sit in your assigned seat. If people need accommodations, they can take it up with the FAs (flight attendants).”

Another user added: “I never understand why they can’t bug the person next to them.”

A third user said: “I would happily move for the grandma but the others are on their own after that.”

Singapore Airlines’ ultra-long-haul route covers 9,537 miles – but it doesn’t come cheap.

The world’s longest flight links America to Asia, with travellers buckled in for nearly 19 hours. Singapore Airlines currently holds the record for the lengthiest long-haul journey, operating from New York’s JFK Airport to Singapore Changi.

The epic 9,537-mile trek boasts a scheduled flight time of 18 hours and 50 minutes and first took to the skies back in 2018.

Singapore Airlines deploys their cutting-edge A350-900ULRs on this route, aircraft capable of remaining airborne for over 20 hours non-stop.

These planes achieve such endurance thanks to a specially adapted fuel system. This enhancement boosts the aircraft’s total fuel capacity to an enormous 24,000 litres.

Yet this mammoth journey isn’t available to all, as Singapore Airlines doesn’t provide economy seating on this route. The carrier instead provides 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats.

Premium Economy travellers can relish additional legroom, a footrest, and an adjustable headrest. Passengers also benefit from noise-cancelling headphones and WiFi throughout their journey, reports the Express.

Business class flyers experience ultimate privacy, with their seats transforming into completely flat beds for proper rest during travel. Singapore Airlines maintains that the A350-900ULR delivers passengers a “more comfortable travelling experience”.

The aircraft boasts a host of additional amenities including elevated ceilings, expansive windows and specially engineered lighting systems to combat jet lag.

The carrier maintains that the aircraft’s cutting-edge carbon composite construction also enables superior air quality throughout the cabin.

Prospective passengers will need deep pockets, as tickets routinely command prices well into five-figure territory.

Singapore Airlines’ chief executive, Mr Goh Choon Phong, has previously stated that the new service will provide the “fastest way” to journey between these two metropolitan hubs.

He said: “Singapore Airlines has always taken pride in pushing the boundaries to provide the best possible travel convenience for our customers, and we are pleased to be leading the way with these new non-stop flights using the latest technology, ultra-long-range Airbus A350-900ULR.

“The flights will offer our customers the fastest way to travel between the two cities – in great comfort, together with Singapore Airlines’ legendary service – and will help boost connectivity to and through the Singapore hub.”

Ever wondered what happens if you accidentally forget to put your phone on airplane mode during a flight? One pilot shared the consequences of skipping this safety precaution

There are many safety precautions that come with travelling on a flight. Not only do you spend ages passing through security, then finding your all-important gate information, there’s quite a procedure on-board the flight too.

You’re sat down waiting for your plane to leave the gate, but first, you must have your armrests down, windows up and phones on airplane mode. Now have you ever wondered why you should always put your device on airplane mode? One pilot explained what actually happens if you forget the safety precaution in a YouTube post shared by WKYC Channel 3.

The cabin crew member claimed it’s simply “not a conspiracy” and that it’s hardly the “end of the world” if you were to forget.

He said in the video which scooped more than 26,000 views: “This is just a friendly PSA the airplane mode button on your phone is not a conspiracy.

“So if you forget to put your phone on airplane mode, no it’s not the end of the world, the plane will not fall out of the sky and it won’t even mess with the systems on board.

“However, it does have the potential to mess with the headsets, if you have an aircraft with 70, 80 or 150 people on board and even three or four people’s phones start to try to make a connection to a radio tower for an incoming phone call, it sends out radio waves, there’s the potential those radio waves can interfere with the headsets the pilots are using.”

The pilot also explained a situation in San Francisco where he experienced an “annoying buzz” with his headset when one traveller forgot their phone during take-off.

Describing it as a “mosquito”, he said: “And as soon as we started to get the directions, we got this really annoying buzz with the headset.

“Not the end of the world but definitely annoying when you’re trying to copy down instructions and it sounds like there’s a wasp or something lying around you. So if you’re ever curious why you get put on airplane mode, that’s why.”

Why should you put phone on airplane mode?

Interferes with aircraft: Your phone sends out radio waves and when there’s a large number of devices involved, it could disrupt sensitive cockpit communications and navigate equipment. This could create a buzzing sound or other noise in a pilot’s headset.

Air traffic control: Having your phone on airplane mode could interfere during take-off and landing when pilots rely on clear communication.

Battery life: Without airplane mode, your phone constantly searches for cell towers which can drain your battery.

The new route will take nearly eight hours in total, but passengers will have none of the extras usually associated with long-haul flights, such as meals or entertainment screens to pass the time

Flying on a budget airline is always a bit of an endurance test. They’re usually pretty cramped and offer little in the way of service or extras. But if the flight is a couple of hours long, most people aren’t bothered about luxurious extras if it means they’ve got more money in their pocket to enjoy the destination once they land.

However, in recent years, budget airlines have been offering longer routes, meaning that even long-haul destinations can be reached on one of these minimalistic services. One of the latest offerings comes from Air Arabia, who in spring 2026 will be offering a new London Gatwick to Sharjah route. It comes in at a leg-cramp-inducing seven hours and 50 minutes.

According to the Telegraph, these flights, which are operated on a single-aisle plane, will clock in as the world’s longest budget airline flights. However, they will offer an inexpensive way to visit the Middle East, and Sharjah Airport is just half an hour from Dubai, which will no doubt make it a popular route. According to Skyscanner, the cheapest tickets available now from London to Sharjah is £182. It remains seen how much cheaper the new route will be.

On-board, Air Arabia doesn’t look much different to easyJet, Jet2, or Ryanair. Cabins will have a single aisle with three seats on each side. Some services will have options to upgrade to extra legroom, and you can choose Basic, Value, or Ultimate packages when you book with the latter two, including checked baggage, either a sandwich or a hot meal, and water.

You won’t get seatback TVs to help you pass the time, but you can download an app called SkyTime, which allows you to access TV shows, movies, sports, and other entertainment on your personal device. Otherwise, your view for eight hours will be the seat in front of you and the in-flight magazine.

However, if you’re hoping to enjoy a cold beer or gin and tonic en route to your holiday destination, you’ll be disappointed. Air Arabia is a dry airline, so the trolley will only be stocked with soft drinks. It’s worth noting that Sharjah is a dry emirate too. While non-Muslims can drink in their homes, no alcohol is served in hotels or restaurants.

If you can make it through the flight, you have the option of staying in Sharjah, or heading to nearby Dubai for your stay. Sharjah isn’t as well-known as its neighbouring city, but it’s the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

UNESCO named Sharjah the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World”, and it hosts the Islamic Civilization Museum, which has thousands of items from coins to calligraphy and Islamic artefacts set in a beautiful domed building.

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Sharjah also boasts long sandy beaches that overlook the Persian Gulf, and the Al Majaz Waterfront area is particularly popular with tourists, as this large complex features picturesque parkland, Western chain restaurants, and stunning views of the skyscrapers that comprise Sharjah’s skyline.

There’s also plenty to do for families, including the colourful Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Classic Cars Museum, where you can see shiny vehicles from the earliest days of automobiles through to modern cars.

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