Flight attendant secrets

Sherry Martin Peters, a flight attendant and founder of Atlas + Wild, has shared a list of her favourite supermarket buys she makes sure to put in her shopping basket when abroad

Is there a sensation that etches itself more deeply and immediately into the British brain than the first time you enter a French supermarket?

I doubt I will ever forget the thrilling aroma of different chilled meats, walking down an aisle of completely unfamiliar cereals, or realising that you can buy small fireworks and about 400 varieties of drink syrup in a single shop.

Supermarket shopping abroad is a serious phenomenon on social media, with more than 50 million posts related to ‘grocery store travel’ on TikTok. It is packed full of travellers showing off their finds and remarking at how different everyday things are abroad.

Last year, travel giant Expedia identified “supermarket tourism” or “Goods Getaways” as a major trend for 2025. The firm predicted that more travelers, particularly Gen Z, would visit foreign supermarkets to find unique products that have gone viral on social media.

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OPINION

Milo Boyd

Sherry Martin Peters, a flight attendant and founder of Atlas + Wild, has avidly visited different supermarkets throughout her long career of jet-setting across the world.

“Tourists seek landmarks and magnets for souvenirs. Flight attendants seek out grocery stores. We know which Lisbon supermarkets stock sangria worthy of wrapping inside a shoe, which Korean store to stock up on collagen face masks, which French markets sell lavender honey that doubles as a sleep remedy, and which South African shelves hold rooibos tea rich enough to taste like rest,” she told the Mirror.

“Fresh Italian pasta. Salted butter from France. Brazilian mate packed between uniforms. Lisbon sardines in artful tins. These aren’t novelty purchases — they are edible memories, our way of claiming a place as lived, not just passed through. If you ever were to peek inside a flight attendants pantry, it’d look like an international grocery store. And that gives us comfort.”

Sherry has shared her favourite foreign supermarkets when travelling abroad, and what she buys in them. “Some of this may be found in specialty stores in the U.S. but we are buying the same at dirt cheap prices,” she notes.

Do you have any foreign supermarket staples or any tips for shopping abroad? We’d love to hear from you. Please email [email protected]

Italy: Carrefour, Coop, and Esselunga

• One litre bottle of “rustic unfiltered” olive oil by Carapelli
• Any Italian red wine that’s about 7-10 euros – they are all fantastic
• Fresh hand-cut pasta from Maffei or from a local pasta shop
• Tomato paste by Tuscanini or Mutti
• Canned tomatoes and tomato sauce by Cento, La Fiammante, Divella and Mutti
• Fresh chunks of Parmesan for grating

France: Monoprix

• Bordier Butter, or Grand Fermage Sel de Mer (sea salt butter) is a cult product
• Lulu Barquettes boat cookies
• St Michel Original Madeleines
• Fleur de Sel gray sea salt
• Duck Confit Reflets De France (duck in a can)
• Torres Truffle potato chips
• Pringles (taste better than in the US)

Portugal: El Corte Inglés and Continente

• Dom Simon sangria (actually from Spain) and cinnamon sticks to marinate it in
• Local wines like Vino Verde, but use the Vivino app to look for ratings to try new ones
• Fresh pastéis de nata (custard tarts Portugal is famous for) from the bakery
• Grand Fermage Sel de Mer butter (French)

Bob. Mermaid. Code 300. Gate lice. These are all code words that flight attendants use to subtly discuss passengers when whizzing along at 30,000 feet. Knowing how to crack the code is key to working out what they’re talking about

Flight attendants have a subtle way of letting each other know if there is a hottie onboard.

When working the aisles at 30,000 feet, there isn’t much room for maneuvering a food trolley around or gossiping about which of the passengers has caught your eye. Which is why flight attendants use two code words to make it clear which way their heart is beating.

“If you hear them refer to someone as ‘Bob’, they are using the secret acronym ‘babe on board’. When you are disembarking from the aircraft, if the flight attendant says ‘cheerio’ to you this could also be code they have a secret crush!” a flight attendant, who asked to remain anonymous, told eShores.

“We always run back to the galley and let the rest of the crew know where the sexy passenger is sat. We will be extra nice to them and give them freebies. I can confirm phone numbers have definitely been written on napkins!”

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Sherry Martin Peters, a veteran flight attendant and founder of Atlas + Wild AtlasAndWild.com, is keen for passengers to know that, behind the professional exterior, she and her colleagues lead intriguing and sometimes less glamorous than you might expect.

“I’ve been an international flight attendant for 26 years, and passengers only see the smiling, polished version of us—but there’s an entirely different reality behind that image,” she told the Mirror.

“We speak in acronyms because airline lingo becomes its own mother tongue. Trips aren’t described by days, but by city: ‘I’m flying Athens this month.’ Casually mentioning having lunch in New York, then breakfast in Paris is not bragging — it’s just Tuesday and it’s our normal. Confusing to outsiders, yes. You may start to understand it, and even speak our language to some extent if you are married to us, or are close friends.

“Our geography is fluid. Our bodies no longer belong to a single time zone. So we build rituals to feel grounded — even when we’re 35,000 feet above it.”

There are plenty of other codewords that flight attendants deploy when subtly chatting about passengers. They include:

• Mermaid – A playful yet passive-aggressive nickname for a passenger who deliberately sprawls out across empty seats to deter others from sitting in their row.
• Code 300 or Angel – These indicate that someone has died on board.
• ABP – translates to ‘able-bodied passengers’. These are individuals that the crew seek out just in case of an emergency.
• Gate Lice – This term refers to passengers, often inexperienced flyers, who crowd around or line up at a gate at an airport, completely blocking the boarding area and preventing First and Business Class passengers from getting on the plane when they’re allowed to.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at [email protected].

Andrea Owen, who has been TUI cabin crew since 2003, has shared her top tips for flying with children to boost your chances of as little going wrong as possible

A flight attendant has shared her top tip for boosting the chance that a flight with kids goes well.

Andrea Owen, who has been TUI cabin crew since 2003, has lifted the lid on some of the best tips for travelling with children that she’s learned in her 22 years of flying.

From short-haul to long-haul flights, Andrea has flown at least 3,000 times and sees hundreds of families take to the skies every week to some of TUI’s popular destinations, such as Majorca, the Canaries, Mexico, and Jamaica.

Andrea says: “After all these years of flying I have looked after thousands of families, I can tell you that the secret to stress-free family travel is preparation. I always tell parents to expect the unexpected, pack more snacks than you think you’ll need, and don’t be afraid to ask crew for help. A lot of us are parents too, and we genuinely want every family to have a great start to their holiday.”

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Andrea’s number one tip to having a successful flight is to choose the right boarding time. When, exactly, is a personal decision.

“This one really depends on your child’s personality, and you know them best. Some families find that boarding as soon as possible gives them that extra breathing space to get settled, stow the bags, and get the kids comfortable in their seats without feeling rushed. But I’ve also seen plenty of parents who swear by boarding last, especially if their little ones can’t sit still for long,” she said.

Below are Andrea’s other top tips:

Relieve ear pressure

“This is one of the most common concerns parents ask me about, and it’s really easy to solve. For babies and toddlers, feeding during take-off and landing is brilliant, whether that’s breastfeeding, a bottle, or even just a dummy – the sucking motion helps equalize ear pressure. For older children, give them chewy sweets or lollipops about 30 minutes before landing as that’s when the pressure really starts to build. I’ve seen many tears avoided with this simple trick.”

Always pack a variety of activities

“I recommend packing a small bag stuffed with variety – different toys, activities, and snacks. What works brilliantly is either letting them pack their own bag so they’re excited or pack some surprise toys they haven’t seen before. Keep everything small and compact with plenty of pencils, crayons, and paper. A surprise sticker book with a little bag of sweets is absolute gold. The games I see working best are Snap, Dobble, and colouring. And here’s a lovely tip – encourage your children to draw pictures for the cabin crew. We absolutely love receiving them and always have a stash of stickers at the ready for every flight.”

Help them to feel prepared

“Preparation is everything when it comes to keeping children calm. Before you leave for the airport, talk through exactly what’s going to happen. Checking in, going through security, boarding the plane, and what take-off and landing will feel like. Let them know about the noises they might hear and explain that their ears might feel different. This is particularly useful if your child is neurodiverse. The key is to make it sound like an exciting adventure rather than something to worry about.”

Bring your home comforts

“Packing home comforts like a small pillow, blanket or cuddly toys can help children of all ages feel more relaxed. If you’re travelling at times when your child would normally be having a nap or going to bed, I really encourage parents to try and stick to that routine as much as possible. Let them sleep if they want to, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling so much fresher and ready to enjoy your holiday. It’s also worth thinking about time zones if you’re flying long haul. Maybe start adjusting their sleep schedule a day or two before you travel. A well-rested child makes for a much happier holiday start!”

Dress in layers

“The temperature on board can vary throughout the flight. That’s why I always recommend dressing your child in layers so you can add or remove clothing to keep them comfortable. It’s always handy to pack a spare pair of clothes in your hand luggage just in case of a spill or accident. I’ve seen many parents caught out without a change of clothes, and it makes the rest of the flight uncomfortable for the both of you.”

Snack trays

“Those little snack trays with multiple compartments come in really handy. Kids absolutely love them and there’s something about having lots of different treats in separate sections that keeps them entertained for ages. You can fill each compartment with different snacks: fruit, crackers, cheese cubes, raisins, a couple of sweets. It turns snack time into something fun and interactive, and it means you’re not constantly rummaging through bags. We also have healthy snack boxes for kids available onboard which they love, so there will always be something they can eat. “

Don’t be afraid to ask cabin crew for help

“Don’t ever feel worried about asking us for help, that’s what we’re here for. Over my 22 years of flying, I’ve seen everything. We’ve warmed countless bottles, fetched extra sick bags, provided colouring sheets, and even entertained little ones while parents take a breather. Many of us are parents ourselves, so we completely understand how overwhelming it can feel. Whether you need extra wipes, help with the overhead locker, or just some reassurance, we’re here to make your journey smoother.”

“We know flying can feel overwhelming for families, whether it’s your first flight with kids or you have an anxious flyer in the family, there are lots of simple and easy tips you can put into place to make it seem that little bit less daunting.”

Skye Taylor, 50, from Southampton, travelled the world with Virgin Atlantic for 16 years and has revealed the worst routes for drunk and disorderly passengers

A former cabin crew worker has shared her experiences of “absolute chaos” on certain routes where passengers consumed the most alcohol.

Ex-flight attendant Skye Taylor, who spent 16 years travelling the globe with Virgin Atlantic, made her comments after a discussion on RTÉ’s Today with Claire Byrne show. Travel correspondent Simon Calder sparked the debate by questioning whether it was time to trial alcohol-free flights.

Simon highlighted an increase in individuals combining alcohol with prescription drugs, leading Claire to ask: “If the airlines decide that they’re going to trial this and ban the sale of alcohol on flights, does it not just encourage us to get tanked up at the airport?”

After the conversation, Skye, 50, from Southampton, argued that a complete ban wasn’t the solution. However, she did advocate for restrictions on alcohol, attributing most of the issues she faced on the job to alcohol-related incidents.

Offering a troubling insight, she revealed: “Long haul flights… It is absolute chaos sometimes. I had an absolutely awful experience in upper class. I am going to say it because it was awful.

“There were a lot of quite well off guys off to a boxing match in Vegas and because they were in upper class there was no control on how much they were drinking.

“They literally drunk the bar dry which led to some behaviour that I couldn’t imagine seeing, like trying to touch the cabin crew, just in general, awful.”

She revealed that passengers mixing alcohol with prescription medication often caused the biggest headaches.

Skye also urged travellers to exercise caution, revealing how one drink at 30,000ft in the air was equivalent to downing three on the ground.

The mum, who left the industry after developing insomnia, said some upper class passengers felt overly entitled after splashing out so much cash for their seat.

However, she insisted this shouldn’t give them the right to make cabin crew workers feel threatened.

And discussing the contrast in different destinations, she added: “It is crazy to see the difference in routes. Say you are going to Dubai, the majority of your passengers are not going to be drinking because they don’t drink alcohol (in Dubai), so there are very very few incidents on flights like that.

“But the rest of the time the incidents are caused by alcohol and it is scary, it is scary sometimes when you are up there.”

So what does Skye reckon are the worst flights for drunken behaviour?

Las Vegas

Skye discovered the American party capital Las Vegas was the worst flight when departing from the UK.

She explained: “On the way out it can just be carnage. Which does make you feel unsafe as crew and other passengers if they are flying with families and stuff like that as well.”

But the return journey is frequently vastly different.

She revealed: “It is very different, if you come back from Vegas nobody wants to drink on the way home, so it is a very different atmosphere. Everyone is relaxed, chilled, everyone is going to sleep. It makes your job very easy.”

Magaluf and Ibiza

Predictably, two of Spain’s most legendary party hotspots featured on Skye’s list of the most challenging flights.

While detailing some of her tactics for handling disruptive passengers (see below), Skye highlighted the destinations as among the most problematic on budget carrier routes.

Jamaica

Remembering a flight to the Jamaican capital of Kingston, she revealed “it was absolutely chaos”.

Skye added: “And it was a big aircraft but we had the staff to deal with it then and I think most airlines now don’t have the staff. They are down to minimum crew and that’s not leaving anyone to watch for people drinking because they are too busy.”

The most challenging route, she discovers, is from the UK to Las Vegas.

Following her description of Las Vegas as the most difficult route, Skye noted that paradoxically, on the homeward flight to England, nobody aboard wishes to drink.

‘Booze ban is not the answer’

According to the International Air Transport Association, air rage incidents have risen by 8% in the past year. And while not believing that an alcohol prohibition on flights was the solution, Skye did offer one recommendation.

According to Skye, most difficulties emerged when travellers brought aboard alcohol purchased in the airport, before uncorking the bottle during the flight. She firmly believes any booze bought in duty free should be collected during boarding, then returned after touchdown.

Skye reckons this would prevent passengers “acting like they are in Wetherspoons” which occurs on numerous routes.

She concluded: “It definitely needs tighter restrictions and even if alcohol is free on board, just reduce that, especially routes that cause the problems, so low cost routes it is going to be Ibiza, Magluf, that type of flight.

“Stop them bringing alcohol on that board, because that is when they act up. I don’t know how they get away with it anyway, it is purchased outside the aircraft and it shouldn’t be in their hands, that’s my opinion.”

A flight attendant has shared the eight items she believes are essential to bring on a plane, especially if it’s a long-haul flight, as it will make your experience more relaxing an enjoyable

Flying off somewhere, whether it’s for a holiday or for something else, can be nerve-wracking, particularly when you’re facing a lengthy flight or you’re not an experienced traveller. One of the most crucial tasks before heading to the airport is ensuring you’ve packed all your must-have items.

Holiday packing can feel daunting, as it’s a mix of trying to squeeze everything in whilst avoiding creases, worrying about taking too much, or panicking you haven’t brought enough with you. Whilst many travellers choose to check their luggage, you’ll still be permitted to bring a small bag into the cabin as hand luggage.

Taking to social media, cabin crew member Chloe has revealed eight items she considers absolutely vital to take aboard an plane in your hand luggage, especially for long-distance journeys, as they’ll make your trip more pleasant and comfortable.

“Must haves on planes, from a flight attendant,” she posted on the opening slide of her TikTok post.

She then went on to dive into her recommendations of things that she things are essential to pack for a plane.

1. ‘Poo’ spray

Using the loo on an aircraft can be an uncomfortable situation for some passengers, particularly when nature calls for number twos. To make the ordeal more bearable for yourself and fellow travellers, Chloe suggested packing a ‘poo spray’.

Whilst it might sound peculiar, the spray is applied either around the lavatory or straight into the toilet bowl and will consequently mask unpleasant bathroom odours.

“It’s called Poopurri and yes it works. Be a good human and spray before you walk away,” Chloe posted.

2. Snacks & drinks

Next, she suggested bringing your own food and beverages aboard the aircraft. Her primary reasoning for this centres on how unforeseen turbulence or conditions might postpone the scheduled meal service.

“If turbulence hits, you might not get served for hours,” she explained. “Bring your own snacks and drinks, plane food is mid anyway.”

3. Disposable toothbrush

“Nothing hits like brushing your teeth after a long flight nap,” she said. “These little guys are pre-pasted! No sink, no mess, just fresh.”

The item she endorsed was a multipack of throwaway mini toothbrushes that already contain toothpaste, eliminating one additional product from your packing list.

Should you prefer not to purchase another single-use item, an excellent alternative would be simply packing your own toothbrush and toothpaste in your hand luggage for freshening up before touchdown.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones

Aircraft can be loud, which can make the journey feel considerably longer than it actually is. To combat this, Chloe suggests packing some noise-cancelling headphones for use during the flight.

“Trust me – they’re a lifesaver, she said. “Block out crying babies, engine noise, and snoring seatmates. “”.

“Just make sure they come with a wire for in-flight screens,” she added.

5. Steam eye mask

“Best travel hack I’ve found,” she said about her fifth tip, which was steam eye masks. These masks help to boost blood flow around your peepers.

The warmth can also help you unwind and drift off more easily.

“The heat soothes my dry, tired eyes and eases the pressure. It’s the only reason I can sleep on flights now,” Chloe said.

6. AirFly

If you’ve got headphones or earbuds that need Bluetooth to function, having a Bluetooth transmitter, such as an AirFly, will let you use your own headphones for the in-flight entertainment.

“A game changer for anyone who flies and wants to use their own wireless earbuds instead of those uncomfortable airline headphones,” Chloe said.

7. Good neck pillow

If you know you’ll want to kip or chill out during your flight, investing in a neck pillow can be brilliant for preventing a stiff or sore neck.

However, Chloe warned her viewers to ensure they purchase a decent quality one.

She said: “Not all neck pillows are created equal. Find one that actually supports your head or risk waking up with neck pain and regret.”

8. Passport and pen

Finally, as most travellers will already know, the most crucial item you need to take on your flight is your valid passport.

But Chloe also made sure to mention that you should pack your own biro.

“Double-check that your passport isn’t expired. And bring your own pen!” she said. “You’ll need it for customs forms, and flight attendants never seem to have extras.”

Chloe then shared a few more tips to make your flight more comfortable, including wearing compression socks, carrying gum or mints, a pill case with medications, sanitising wipes, hand sanitiser, a reusable water bottle, and face masks.

Over the past week, as the summer holidays draw to an inevitable close and the return to work and school looms, searches for ‘how to get over jet lag’ have risen by more than 400%

A flight attendant has suggested that passengers switch on one setting to maximise their chances of beating jet lag.

Returning from summer holidays can feel less than fun when jet lag hits. Over the past week, as the summer holidays draw to an inevitable close and the return to work and school looms, searches for ‘how to get over jet lag’ have risen by more than 400%.

A British Airways flight attendant, who spoke on condition of anonymity, has shared her tips for overcoming the worst of the timezone-based ailment. Here are her top techniques:

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1. Adjust your phone’s blue light settings

One of the primary causes of jet lag is the disruption of your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. To counteract this, change the setting on your phone to automatically switch off blue light after a certain time. Blue light, similar to natural daylight, tricks your eyes into staying awake, hindering your ability to wind down to a restful sleep.

2. Wear sunglasses upon arrival

If your destination is ahead of your body’s time zone, wearing sunglasses upon arrival can be a clever hack to block out excessive daylight exposure. Flight crews always suggest donning sunglasses during your journey from the airport to your accommodation to help your body adjust to the local time and ease into a more relaxed state without straining your eyes.

3. Gradually adjust your sleep schedule

When travelling east, it is often the time difference that presents the most significant challenge for combating jet lag. To prepare your body for the shift, adopt a gradual approach. Start adjusting your sleep schedule one week before your trip by going to bed an hour earlier each night. This pre-emptive step will make the time adjustment smoother and help you feel more refreshed upon arrival.

4. Nourish with light snacks

During instances when you need to stay awake a little longer, especially when the clocks go back, we recommend having a light snack. Some travellers might be hesitant to eat during the nighttime of their home country, but it’s important to remember that food is fuel. A light snack can provide a much-needed energy boost and keep you alert during extended periods of wakefulness.

5. Brush your teeth

A common tip among flight crews is to brush your teeth. The mint in the toothpaste can provide an invigorating sensation, giving you a quick burst of energy and temporarily fighting off fatigue.

6. Gel eye patches for revived eyes

Travelling can take a toll on your eyes, leaving them feeling tired and dehydrated. Flight attendants swear by gel eye patches as an effective remedy. These patches combat tired eyes and help rehydrate the delicate skin around the eyes, leaving you looking and feeling refreshed. You can find some great gel eye patches on Cult Beauty.

7. Take short naps strategically

Napping can be tempting, especially if you are feeling fatigued after a long flight. However, taking long naps or napping at the wrong time can disrupt your sleep schedule even further, so as soon as you arrive, adjust to the local time. And opt for short power naps (20-30 mins) to recharge without interfering with your nighttime sleep.

An experienced cabin crew assistant and author revealed that on one particular airline there was a special space reserved for the most gruesome eventuality during a flight

There are many unseen happenings that take place on an aircraft while you manoeuvre your way down the narrow aisle trying to locate your seat, store your cabin luggage overhead and settle back for what you hope is a relaxing and smooth flight to your chosen destination.

Cabin crew members often share their secrets of life in the sky and what really goes on, with some grisly warnings of things to avoid when flying.

One experienced assistant has revealed what she’s learnt and witnessed behind the scenes during her years working for a US airline and there’s one quite morbid detail many travellers would never have known about.

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Heather Poole has worked for a major carrier for over 15 years and is the author of Cruising Attitude: Tales of Crashpads, Crew Drama, and Crazy Passengers at 35,000 Feet. She has spoken about the rather morbid topic of death on board an airplane.

Although she says it’s very rare for a passenger to die in the air, it obviously does and can happen – although no one officially passes away in flight unless there is a doctor on board to pronounce it.

Speaking to mentalfloss.com, she said that in such challenging circumstances most stewards would rather move the deceased to an empty row of seats where they can be covered over away from other passengers, although this isn’t always possible.

“On these very rare occasions, the crew will do everything possible to manage the situation with sensitivity and respect,” she said. “Unfortunately, most flights are full, so it’s not always possible to move an “incapacitated” passenger to an empty row of seats.”

Heather revealed that one company, Singapore Airlines, decided to get around the problem with a “corpse cupboard”. This she explained was “a compartment for storing a dead body if the situation arises”.

The company installed the locker on its Airbus A340-500 in 2004 next to one of the aircraft’s exit doors. It was big enough to hold an average-sized human body and had special straps to secure the corpse and stop it being moved by turbulence or on landing.

It only chose this particular type of aircraft for the cupboard because it operated on extra long haul flights from Singapore to New York and Los Angeles. The routes had some of the longest distances in the world, with flight times of 18-19 hours. The fleet was retired in 2013-14 and the lockers aren’t used on any other airlines currently.

While Heather said she thankfully hasn’t had to deal with a death on board, her room mate has – and in some rather strange circumstances. She revealed that her friend realised a passenger was trying to sneak a dead body on the flight.

“She knew the man was dead the moment she saw him looking grey and slumped over in a wheelchair, even though his wife and daughter assured her he was just battling the flu,” she said. “Midway through the flight, the plane had to make an unscheduled landing when it became apparent that no amount of Nyquil was going to revive him.”

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An experienced flight attendant has revealed the one thing to avoid doing on airplanes if you don’t want to risk sharing other people’s bodily fluids and germs

A flight attendant who shares her adventures in the sky on social media has provided some insider advice on what passengers should definitely avoid while onboard.

Natalie Magee has been flying for 20 years so certainly knows what she’s talking about. She’s seen the good, the bad and the very ugly during her time looking after airline travellers.

However, there’s one particular freebie that Natalie recommends refusing, especially on shorter flights because the risk of getting up close and far too personal with other people’s germs is horribly high.

Zooming through the clouds can often mean that it gets a bit nippy at times in the cabin, particularly if flying at night when the sun has gone down. So passengers may need a blanket to keep warm and cosy.

Complimentary blankets used to be provided by airlines on most flights for chilly customers but these days because of cost-cutting and environmental concerns it’s usually only international, long-haul and first-class passengers that they are available too.

You may not think that’s such a bad thing though when you discover what could be found on them either. According to Natalie, hair, food, bodily fluids and mould could all be lurking in the folds of the material.

She says travellers use them to wipe their nose, clean up spills and even to catch their toenail clippings but that’s not all. “Probably one of the grossest things I’ve seen is someone using blankets to change their baby’s diaper,” Natalie, who is from Colorado, US, told Travel + Leisure.

That wouldn’t be such a problem if they were laundered after every use but that doesn’t always happen, according to the expert. “Most airlines have contract cleaners that take the blankets off after international flights and wash them in hot water, then seal them in plastic bags to be reused,” she explained. “However, on domestic flights, I’ve had blankets on my flights that we are instructed to just refold and put back in the bin.”

As a general rule she says if they aren’t in a sealed bag, they aren’t sanitary. So if you are someone who feels the cold when flying or needs to be covered to have a snooze, she recommends taking your own blanket. This way you know it’s clean and you won’t be snuggling up with someone else’s germs or illnesses.

Natalie has previously shared some of her many in-flight “peeves” and the most annoying things that passengers do. Along with parents changing babies on tray tables, people walking to the toilet barefoot and clipping their toenails while on board, she reveals one of her biggest pet hates is also hygiene related.

In a TikTok video she said she hates it, “when people don’t shut the bathroom door or leave the bathroom a mess. Also when you can hear it flush but not the sink so you know they didn’t wash their hands.”

Despite the niggles of life in the air with total strangers in a confined space, she reckons most flight attendants think of the aircraft as their own domain, which is why they want people to treat it well. “We would love it if people treated the space as their home and were tidy and respectful,” she said.

Natalie also believes it makes such a difference when passengers are polite and kind. “Honestly, when people say ‘thank you’ when they are getting off the plane (it is really great),” she reveals. “Or when they take the time to look at us when we are doing the beverage service and say please and thank you, we really appreciate it. I also like people who help others with their bags, especially mums and the elderly as we can’t always help everyone when boarding.”

A former flight attendant and TikTok creator has shared a warning about the window seat

Cabin crew understand the realities of air travel better than most passengers. Their knowledge stems from years of hands-on experience rather than just theoretical training, which is why their advice about flying should be taken seriously. When a flight attendant reveals what they personally avoid doing whilst aboard an aircraft, it’s definitely worth listening.

Many travellers book their preferred seats well in advance, hoping for a more pleasant journey. Most flyers opt for either window seats to lean against or aisle positions for additional leg room, but one former flight attendant has issued a stark warning about choosing the window spot, reports the Express.

TikTok user and former cabin crew member Cierra Mistt has raised serious concerns about window seats and explained her reasoning.

Breeding ground for bacteria

Cierra explained: “While it is true that cleaners do come on most after passengers are done getting off the plane, they don’t do a deep clean like you might think they do.

“In fact, they only did that during Covid, and the only thing they really deep-cleaned was the tray tables and seatbelts. Nowadays, it’s mostly just to tidy up and getting the trash off the floor.”

Noting that some carriers provide sanitising wipes when passengers board, she continued: “If I were you, instead of wiping down the tray tables and seatbelts that they just cleaned, I would use that wipe to clean off the window that you’re next to, because just like the bathroom floor, those things have never been cleaned.”

Taking to the comments section of the video, most viewers urged others to always pack cleaning wipes to sanitise the window area.

One viewer remarked: “I can’t believe they get away with not cleaning anything! That is horrible!”. Another commented: “I always clean the window and the head seat. Sometimes looks greasy.”

A third confirmed: ” I can verify this. They didn’t even remove the melted chocolate from my seat and tray left by the previous passenger before I sat down. I had to sort it myself.”

Someone else explained: “You have less than seven minutes to clean a whole plane. Sometimes, only two people are there to clean a plane.”

Defending the airlines, another viewer countered: “They do a deep clean and search EVERY single night, including disinfecting everything with cleaner.”

According to Aviation Job Search, standard cleaning takes place between flights, whilst aircraft also undergo regular thorough cleaning to uphold high hygiene standards.

These comprehensive sessions involve scrubbing cabin walls, wiping down overhead compartments, and clearing out air vents. Seats and cushions are meticulously hoovered and disinfected to eliminate any concealed grime or debris.

Is the window seat actually the safest?

Specialists at Travel & Leisure disclosed that choosing a window seat might be the most effective method to avoid catching illnesses from other travellers.

They explained: “A 2018 study said that window seats are best because they’re the most isolated (other than in certain ultra-luxe first-class mini cabins).

“Window-side passengers are seated next to just one passenger, with seats separating them from the people in front and behind. Most importantly, they are furthest from the aisle, where crew and other passengers can frequently pass by.”

Additional studies also discovered that travellers positioned nearer to the aisle are more prone to standing up mid-flight, boosting their likelihood of coming into contact with bacteria whilst moving throughout the aircraft.

Given the research available, it appears the window seat offers the greatest protection against picking up bugs, though it remains wise to take precautions and clean your space before departure.

A travel expert has shared what free products that airlines will give away for free when asked for on any long-haul flight but she has warned that the items ‘aren’t always offered’

A travel guru has spilled the beans on the freebies that airlines can give out for any long-haul flight, but she warned they ‘don’t always offer them to you’ and the secret to bagging them is to ‘ask nicely’. The summer season is when many people jet off on their holidays.

This often involves gearing up for a journey that includes hopping on a plane. Flying is the perfect way to reach far destinations that holidaymakers may have been fantasising about for ages. Not many people are aware that on all long-haul flights, passengers can snag certain items for free regardless of what they’ve paid for their seat. Rachel Bernabeu is a content creator based in Barcelona who’s an expert in travel.

She recently posted a video on TikTok explaining what products passengers could nab for free on long haul flights.

In the clip, she revealed: “Did you know you can ask for loads of free things on a plane and almost nobody does?”

The travel content creator clarified that she got this tip from a flight attendant and that it applies to all long haul flights.

She continued: “All airlines have these things, but they don’t always offer them to you.” For her, the trick is to “ask very nicely”, as she wrote in the caption of her TikTok video.

Rachel first brought up “the classic plane socks”, which are usually quite long and “save your feet from freezing.”

She also highlighted earplugs, stressing that “if you end up near crying babies or expert-level snorers, these are essential”.

The travel enthusiast shares that airlines frequently provide complimentary dental kits featuring a toothbrush and miniature toothpaste, ensuring you don’t get off the plane with unpleasant breath.

Similarly, she highlights that female sanitary products are also accessible for travellers during unexpected situations.

For families, Rachel explains there are activity packs for children, including colouring books or puzzles.

Finally, the specialist revealed that airlines carry surplus food, and if meals remain after the lunch or dinner service, passengers can request them at no charge.

Rachel’s TikTok clip has attracted 212,100 views, over 5,000 likes and almost 90 comments within two days.

Several followers have asked whether these amenities are available to economy passengers.

She confirms that on long-distance flights this is certainly possible, referencing multiple airlines in comments section, but she clarifies this doesn’t apply to low-cost airlines.

Numerous TikTok users contributed details about their personal encounters about the validity of these claims, and which airlines provide them, within the comments area.

One stated: “Lufthansa offers all that, it’s true.” Another remarked: “Emirates gives it its all.”

A third noted: “I’ve been to China a couple of times and they only gave us blankets. Iberia from Barajas to London did have paints for the children.”

Another added: “Qatar provides it. When we went to Thailand, the service was good.”

Some viewers weren’t as optimistic, with one saying: “Very few airlines do this, and it depends greatly on the countries of departure and destination.” Another user quipped: “Now they don’t even say good morning to you.”

Ni jet lag drag – prep is key for your long-haul flight, as Nigel Thompsonlearns with help from Qantas and Maddy Edgar, Qantas Business and First Class flight attendant

Have you ever stood in an airport immigration queue at the end of an overnight long-haul flight feeling like death warmed up?

And then the cheery cabin crew from your plane breeze by in their special fast-track lane looking as fresh as a daisy? The jet lag from eight hours or (much) more at 40,000ft in an aircraft cabin can leave you feeling – and looking – like you’ve been dragged through a hedge backwards.

Australian flag carrier Qantas, which has had a cabin crew base in London for 20 years, operates some of the longest flights in the world. It is currently working on Project Sunrise, which by 2027 should link both London and New York City directly to Sydney with record-breaking 20-hour nonstop journeys.

We asked Maddy Edgar, Qantas Business and First Class flight attendant, to share her top tips for travelling long haul, including how to prepare, pack, and manage jet lag.

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PRE AND POST- FLIGHT CARE

First up, plenty of sleep is key. The night before one of my long-haul flights, I steam my uniform, pack the essentials (more on that later), and log into our Qantas portal to confirm my crew position and review roles and responsibilities. Then I head to bed to get as much sleep as possible.

It’s also incredibly important to stay hydrated. I have an extensive skincare routine and hydration plays a huge role both before and after a long-haul flight. The lack of humidity in cabin air can really dry out your skin and lips, so besides drinking plenty of electrolyte-infused water, a hydrating skincare routine is a must.

In the morning, to prepare for our 17-hour direct flight from London to Perth – one of the longest in the world – I start by cleansing my face with Effaclar Purifying Gel Cleanser. Now I have a clean base, I apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid over Mario Badescu Rosewater spray to maximise water absorption. It makes a huge difference in keeping my skin plump.

Next, I use a thicker-than-usual moisturiser, such as Wella Skin Food, to protect my skin barrier. Then, even though I’m inside a plane, we’re also closer to the sun, so I apply a generous amount of 50+ La Roche-Posay SPF to protect against higher UV rays and premature aging. Plus, as an Aussie, the smell of SPF makes me feel right at home. I’d also add that Laneige lip mask is essential.

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A top tip for your skin throughout the flight – invest in a mini travel-sized version of your favourite hydration mist so you can keep spritzing during the flight.

Then once we land and I’m at my hotel it’s time for a much-needed skin reset and some self-care. Face masks are a must. I love using the viral Bio Collagen mask or Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask.

WHAT’S IN MY CARRY-ON BAG?

Inside my bag I have some long-haul flight attendant essentials I just can’t live without.

I always keep fresh supplies of everything I need because there’s no Australian Priceline or Tesco 40,000ft up.

Here’s what I pack:

• Travel-sized Mario Badescu Rosewater spray.
• My entire long-wear make-up kit, including my favourite Hourglass Concealer and Rimmel lip liner for touch-ups after waking up from crew rest.
• Travel-sized hair spray, bobby pins, and spare hair ties.
• Latte coffee sachets.
• Mints and fresh mint gum.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• iPad, iPhone and chargers.
• Nail glue, in case one of my French tip acrylics pops off unexpectedly.
• PJs and a book for getting cosy in our crew rest area.
• Healthy high-protein snacks such as protein bars, protein shakes, and boiled eggs.
• Sometimes, I even squeeze in a quick Sainsbury’s shop for Galaxy chocolate bars to bring back to my Aussie family in Perth.

MANAGING JET LAG POST-FLIGHT

As a former primary school teacher, I had a pretty regular bedtime. Now, as an international long-haul flight attendant with Qantas, jet lag and time zones can throw me. But honestly, I wouldn’t trade this dream job for anything.

My main go-to tip? Focus on sleep hygiene. I love listening to meditation music to unwind after a flight. Keeping the room dark and cosy is a must, and I can’t resist a bit of lavender pillow spray. It makes all the difference.

I also try not to stress about when to sleep or wake up. If I’m tired, I just close my eyes and enjoy the quiet.

It’s all about finding that balance, so I’m ready to welcome our Qantas customers with a smile when I fly again.

Marcus Daniels, a former flight attendant who spent five years in the job, claims that airlines are too afraid of offending passengers to resolve an apparently longstanding toilet-related issue

A former flight attendant claims that airlines are afraid of teaching passengers how to use toilets properly, for fear of offending them.

Marcus Daniels spent five years working the aisles at 30,000 feet. He loved his job, but not all aspects of it. Marcus says he was disgusted on multiple occasions by messes left behind by passengers. He believes many of these incidents occurred because some flyers were unfamiliar with these types of toilets, and he noticed a trend emerging on certain routes.

“On those flights, passengers will defecate on the floor, and you just do your best to smile and not say anything. You get used to it after a while and can start mentally preparing yourself for those flights,” Mr Daniels said.

The flight attendant added that the language barrier made it difficult to address this delicate topic with passengers.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

“It would be great if there were visual guides showing how to use the toilet properly, rather than just guides for flushing,” he added, according to the Daily Mail.

Daniels recalled one occasion when he had to lock off the toilet for the remainder of a flight after a passenger repeatedly urinated on the floor. “Airlines are very particular about how they communicate with customers because they don’t want to offend anyone,” he said.

In other plane-toilet news, a flight attendant recently revealed that birdsong is now being played in lavatories to mask embarrassing “toilet sounds.” KLM attendant Esther Sturrus posted a video on TikTok demonstrating this new feature inside the bathroom of a brand-new Airbus A321neo.

Sturrus, 24, who has worked for the Dutch airline since 2020, laughed as the sound of birds chirping filled the space. Since summer 2024, KLM has gradually replaced its Boeing 737 fleet with A321neos, according to its website.

“The birdsong definitely catches people by surprise the first time. You’re expecting the usual hum of the engines or total silence, and instead you’re suddenly surrounded by chirping birds. The idea behind it is to make the onboard experience a little more soothing and enjoyable, even in the smallest and most unexpected places,” said Sturrus, who is from Rotterdam.

“The birdsong gives a sort of spa-like vibe. Let’s be honest, it also nicely covers the classic toilet sounds, so it might just be functional too. I found it unusual and amusing and just had to capture the moment. It’s little touches like these that show how much thought can go into even the tiniest details of a flight experience.”

Flying with just a small personal bag can be a struggle when it comes to packing light, but a flight attendant has shared a handy hack that could help avoid extra fees

Excess luggage charges can quickly escalate, turning a dream getaway into a costly nightmare. Keen to keep my Poland trip this month on the cheap, I flew with no-frills carrier Ryanair and stuck to the complimentary baggage allowance – just a small personal item.

The challenge arises when you’re keen to bring home souvenirs, on top of having a compact cross-body bag. Flight attendant Miguel Muñoz previously shared with Express.co.uk a nifty loophole, noting that “duty-free bags don’t count as carry-on baggage” and are usually overlooked by gate staff. This tip has even been echoed by thrifty TikTokers, so I was eager to try it out.

Miguel outlined the trick: “If you have something that doesn’t fit in your suitcase or you want to bring an extra bag on board, here’s the trick.

“All you have to do is carry a duty-free bag. Or ask for one at the duty-free shop, and you can place whatever you want in the shopping bag.”

Boarding the plane with my bulging duty-free bag had me anxious, but to my relief, the crew waved me through without a hitch.

With Ryanair’s baggage fees stretching from £12 to £59.99, avoiding that extra charge felt like a victory.

This trick was a lifesaver for the extra bag and jacket that I couldn’t squeeze into my main luggage.

While this method did work wonders for me, a few folks have mentioned that airline staff requested a look inside their bags.

To sidestep this, if you’ve made any duty-free purchases, place them on top. Also, always ensure your airline permits carrying duty-free items onboard in this manner.

Having triumphed with this hack, I’m eager to test out the neck pillow packing hack. This essentially involves replacing the pillow stuffing with small clothing items.

However, it’s worth noting that some travellers have been caught out using this hack, with a few even being denied boarding.

While passengers typically sleep in their seats on long-haul flights, few know where the cabin crew rest – but a TUI flight attendant has offered a rare behind-the-scenes look

A TUI air hostess has lifted the curtain on a little-known aspect of aviation by showing where cabin crew staff sleep on long haul flights. Experienced travellers will be well-versed in the hierarchy of airline seating from economy to first class, with the latter two offering flat-bed luxury.

However, for some passengers it’s a mystery as to where the flight attendants rest during these lengthy journeys. Charlie Silver, an air hostess with TUI, took to TikTok to give a glimpse into the resting place for staff onboard planes. In her video, she walks through a hidden door near the galley and climbs a ladder to a snug sleeping area above the main cabin.

She reveals: “This is our crew bunks and we have six of these little beds located on our 787 Dreamliners.” She goes onto describe how each crew member receives a ‘bunk kit’ for their break, complete with a pillowcase, mattress topper, and blanket.

Charlie admits that making up these compact beds isn’t straightforward due to the cramped conditions.

The flight attendant shared: “Some crew can’t sleep up here but even if you’re not going to sleep sometimes it’s just a nice little escape from everyone.

“I, personally, can sleep and I think it’s just the sound of the plane that just soothes me.”

Ensuring her safety, she always fastens her seatbelt over the blanket in case of any unexpected turbulence. The bunks also usually come with reading lights for convenience.

Charlie further revealed that these snug spaces are where crew members can “have a little nap at 40,000 feet somewhere across the Atlantic”.

After take-off, rest periods are scheduled and rotated among the crew to ensure everyone gets a chance to recharge.

As per Cabin Crew Wings, on flights ranging from 8 to 12 hours, staff might be allocated an hour or two for their rest break.

On ultra-long-haul flights (those exceeding 12 hours), they are often given up to four hours to rejuvenate and be ready to help passengers.

Cabin Crew 24 reveals that passengers “rarely know about these spaces as they are often hidden from view”.

Despite being compact, these compartments provide enough comfort for crew members during their breaks.

They come equipped with essentials like privacy curtains and ventilation systems.

The website also emphasises that rest for cabin crew is a “critical part of ensuring the safety and efficiency of the flight”.

This is because the onboard staff have numerous responsibilities, including handling emergencies and providing customer service.

Charlie’s TikTok video, offering a peek into where TUI cabin crew members catch some shut-eye, has garnered more than 30,000 likes and nearly 200 comments.

One person remarked: “I’d pay good money to have one of these instead of a normal seat.” Another chimed in: “Gosh I’d feel very claustrophobic.”

A third expressed their astonishment, saying: “Why have I travelled long haul millions of times with TUI and never knew about these.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “Been on a TUI 787 many times, where on Earth is this located on the plane?!?!” To which Charlie responded: “At the back most people think it’s a toilet!”

A flight attendant has shared the reason why the cabin lights are dimmed during take-off and landing on a plane, and why it’s nothing to worry about and is just standard procedure

If you’ve ever been on a night flight and the cabin crew has dimmed the lights for no apparent reason, it may leave you feeling a little uneasy. Suddenly, the plane is plunged into darkness, and if you’re not in the know, you may not know that there’s a reading light above your head to ensure you can see better.

It can leave you sweaty-palmed and can set you on edge for the rest of take-off or landing. Most of the time, there will be a warning to let you know it’s happening, but even then, it can get a little nerve-wracking because you won’t realise the extent of how dark it gets. Then, when you’re plunged into darkness, you’re left desperately looking around, trying to figure out how everyone else is feeling about the situation.

But there’s no need to panic, and one flight attendant has shared the reasons why the cabin lights are dimmed during take-off and landing.

Many passengers will assume it’s a pointless exercise because the pilot isn’t in the same part of the plane – but it’s nothing to do with that.

Barbara Bacilieri, also known as Barbie Bac, shares videos about her flight experience with her 2.65million YouTube subscribers.

And the 29-year-old has confirmed the reason why take-off and landing are dark if you’re on a night flight.

A fan asked: “Why do planes dim the lights during take-off and landing?”

Barbara confirmed that it’s to “help your eyes adjust in case of an emergency evacuation,” so you haven’t been in bright lights previously if you need to get yourself out of the plane.

Lights are dimmed in the cabin of aeroplanes during take-off and landing – especially at night or in low visibility conditions – for safety reasons.

In the unlikely event of an emergency during take-off or landing, and passengers need to evacuate, their eyes will already be adjusted to the lower light levels outside the aircraft.

This helps them see better and move more quickly if they need to find their way to exits.

When the cabin lights are dim, the emergency lighting in the flooring also becomes far more visible, and it helps guide passengers to the exits in case of an emergency.

Dimming the cabin lights reduces glare and reflections on windows, allowing passengers and crew to see outside more clearly. This can be important for situational awareness.

It’s also not the main reason; dimming lights can help conserve power for critical systems during important flight phases.

Nobody wants to experience turbulence on a plane but according to one pilot there’s a key mistake that people make which could make the experience even scarier

Turbulence during a flight can be quite scary for passengers, but one pilot has revealed that there are three key mistakes flyers make on planes that can actually make it a lot worse.

Although it can feel stomach-churning, in the majority of cases, turbulence isn’t actually dangerous and usually just means you’ll have a few spilled drinks or dropped belongings. However, according to one pilot, passengers who ignore one warning could actually be putting themselves in harm’s way.

Retired commercial airline pilot Richard Wells, 54, revealed that people often unbuckle their seatbelt just because the ‘fasten seatbelt’ sign is off. He told Ski Vertigo: “Just because the light’s off doesn’t mean it’s smooth flying. I’ve seen passengers thrown upwards during sudden drops because they weren’t strapped in.”

Turbulence occurs when the aircraft hits strong wind currents that can push or pull the plane. Most of the time it can be detected by radars, but there is also ‘clear air turbulence’ that isn’t picked up, and therefore can occur without warning even when skies appear fine. So if you don’t have your seatbelt buckled, you may get thrown around more than your fellow travellers.

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This is why most pilots recommend keeping your seatbelt loosely fastened at all times when seated, not just during turbulence or announcements. In fact, data shows that the majority of turbulence-related injuries involve passengers or crew who weren’t secured.

Unsurprisingly, getting out of your seat during turbulence is not recommended, but some people still choose to ignore the warnings to go to the toilet, or get something out from the overheard lockers.

Richard warned: “If the seatbelt sign is on, don’t get up—no matter how quick you think it’ll be. We’ve had people lose their balance, fall into others, or get hit by objects falling from the compartments.” If you need to move, for example for a medical reasons, he recommends waiting for the crew’s guidance.

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Of course when turbulence does happen it can be terrifying, but panicking won’t help. In fact, it could make the experience that little bit worse for you. “Turbulence feels dramatic, but planes are built to handle it. It’s no more than a bump in the road, structurally,” Richard explained.

“When passengers scream or panic, it creates unnecessary tension throughout the cabin.” He suggests breathing deeply, relaxing your posture, and distracting yourself with music, a book or light conversation. In more severe turbulence, brace gently against the seat in front if advised, and always follow crew instructions.

Ultimately, if you’ve got your seatbelt fastened and you listen to the crew, it can keep any stress to a minimum. If you do face a bumpy ride, it doesn’t mean you need to instantly worry. “Planes are engineered for far worse than the turbulence most passengers experience,” Richard reassured. “It’s not dangerous, it’s discomforting. The key is staying buckled and level-headed.”

Have you experienced scary turbulence on a flight? Email us at [email protected]

Air staff can refuse to serve drunk passengers, but one former cabin crew member claims she would act when anyone started getting “tipsy” on-board

A former flight attendant has revealed one non-confrontational tactic she claims to have used when presented with “tipsy” passengers on-board.

The unnamed crew member said she had personally “watered down” alcoholic drinks of passengers who she felt were becoming intoxicated on-board. The revelation was made on social platform, Reddit, when curious flyers posed different questions about the role of cabin crew.

The topic came up on an Ask Me Anything thread where the question was asked if there is a limit to how much alcohol can be served to a passenger on international flights. The original poster (OP) shared that while there is no set limit, passengers “cannot be intoxicated” on-board.

When pressed further by another poster about what happens if passengers do start to show signs of being drunk, the OP revealed one sneaky tactic she had previously used.

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“We will watch and if we notice a passenger becoming tipsy we will start diluting the drinks,” the OP shared. While this has not been confirmed as a standard practice, research from Stratos Jets seem to back up the claim.

The study – which was viewed by The Sun – interviewed 119 flight attendants and more than 35% of cabin crew members admitted to watering down passengers’ drinks. Additionally, 74.8% of interviewees shared that they had refused service to an intoxicated passenger on a flight, something flight attendants have the right to do.

Cabin crew members reserve the right to stop serving alcoholic beverages to passengers. It is also against the law to be drunk on a plane and you can be refused entry if you’ve had one too many before a flight.

The official rules for drinking on a flight

According to The Air Navigation Order 2016: “A person must not enter any aircraft when drunk, or be drunk in any aircraft.”

Additionally, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority: “Disruptive passengers can lead to planes being diverted and, where this happens, the disruptive passengers themselves risk having to pay the cost of the diversion. They can also face criminal charges with severe penalties or even prison sentences.”

Passengers who also buy cheaper bottles of alcohol at duty-free are forbidden from opening it up on-board, and must wait until they have landed to enjoy it responsibly.

Ryanair announced on June 12 that disruptive passengers whose behaviour results in them being removed from the plane will now be fined £500.

Ryanair says “unruly passengers” is an “industry-wide issue” and the hefty fine will be the “minimum” punishment and will continue to pursue disruptive passengers for civil damages.

An ex-flight attendant is sharing the details of exactly how, why and when crews ‘check out’ passengers and the reason has more to do with health and safety than attractiveness

A former flight attendant has lifted the lid on why some members of staff “check out” passengers when they get on the plane.

Divulging trade secrets and tips, the attendant who says they worked for a major airline says there is an important reason they eye up the general public as they get comfy in their seats.

Part of the TruTravels team, the flight attendant acknowledged that there are “so many stories of code words for hot passengers” admitting that they certainly don’t go unnoticed by the crew. “We see them and talk about them. But we’d rather just straight up say ‘that businessman in 2A is kinda [sic] fine’ than use some code word”.

That said, the attendant revealed that there is a legitimate safety reason that requires them to assess passengers. “We check you out to see if you’re looking well, healthy, in a fit state, aka not hammered and who would be helpful in an emergency.”

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While the greeting by flight attendants as passengers board is often attributed to common politeness or mandated etiquette, this is usually the point where crew members assess passengers. If passengers are too inebriated to fly, it can pose a health and safety risk and they can be removed from the flight.

Additionally, flight attendants need to assess who can provide physical assistance in the unlikely event of an emergency – looking out for a specific type of passenger. “We call them ABP’s (able-bodied people), the sort of people who can help you throw a door off and help passengers down an emergency slide. You know, the important stuff.”

It is for this reason that only able-bodied individuals are allowed to sit in the seats next to emergency exits. These seats are typically highly coveted – despite sometimes coming with added booking charges – because they offer extra legroom and there is no row immediately ahead.

However, the privilege of extra legroom comes with great responsibility; these passengers are required to be ready to assist in emergencies.

Reflecting this commitment, Ryanair’s terms and conditions state it reserves the right to ” change your allocated seats at any time, even if you had reserved it, if we need to do this for operational, safety or security reasons.”

The airline’s guidelines state that passengers who want to sit in rows 1, 16, or 17 – where the emergency exits are located – must meet specific requirements. These include being over 16 years old, capable of assisting in an emergency, not travelling with an infant, not needing any special assistance at the airport, not requiring a seat belt extender, and not having booked an extra comfort seat.

Another trade secret the former flight attendant shared is why aeroplanes are so cold. “This is for a few reasons, but normally temperatures should stay at around 21 degrees [Celcius] mainly because anything above people start to faint (trust me, this happens most flights).

“Although the flow of air throughout the plane makes 21 degrees feel more like 15 degrees, and if you’re [sitting] near a door, that suctions gonna freeze [you]. So, that’s the price you pay for extra legroom.”

A flight attendant has revealed the secret reason why cabin crew will greet passengers on the plane – and it’s not just because they’re being polite

If you’ve ever taken a flight, you’ll know that the cabin crew greet passengers upon their entry into the aircraft.

While it may have seemed like nothing more than a polite gesture up until now, a flight attendant has revealed the real reason behind the friendly greeting. Ioana Iachim, a flight attendant working for Wizz Air has confessed there’s a hidden meaning behind a cabin crew member’s affable hello during boarding.

Taking to TikTok to share some of her insider secrets, Ioana revealed: “Did you know that your flight attendant greets you not only out of politeness but also, to check whether or not you are too drunk or sick to fly.”

Presumably, cabin crew then keep an eye on passengers they believe could stir up trouble or may not be fit to fly, and might even prevent them from boarding. Ioana’s video currently has over 3.5 million views and over 190k likes.

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Several travellers were shocked at Ioana’s revelation, with one writing: “And I thought they fancied me.” Another TikTok user commented on the video: “I never greet them back because I am an introvert.” One added: “So why do I always sit next to people hacking up a lung and nobody does anything.” Ioana’s hack isn’t the only flight attendant secret that has been revealed in recent times.

As a flight attendant for the past 22 years, Sue Fogwell has warned fliers against ordering a Bloody Mary while in the skies. While speaking to Travel + Leisure, Sue shared that giving the Bloody Mary a miss is probably wise. The cabin crew member said: “Due to the very high sodium content, I always avoid drinking Mr&Mrs T/bloody mary mix and tomato juice.”

This is because drinks and foods that have a high sodium content can dehydrate passengers fairly quickly, especially on long-haul flights. What’s more, the vodka in a classic Bloody Mary has also been identified as a dehydrator, with the NHS advising fliers to limit their alcohol consumption while on an aircraft.

In another instance, ex-flight attendant and viral TikTok sensation, Kat Kamalani, shared some unnerving truths about the state of an aircraft’s water tanks. She warned: “Don’t you ever, ever, ever consume these products from an airplane, from a flight attendant! Rule number one never consume any liquid that is not in a can or a bottle.”

She went on to claim that “those water tanks are never cleaned and they are disgusting”. In fact, cabin crew themselves won’t touch hot drinks. She explained: “We rarely rarely drink the coffee or tea. They come from the same water tank. And so when you’re drinking that coffee and tea come from that hot water and it’s absolutely disgusting.”

Do you have a story to tell us? Email us at [email protected].

Sue Fogwell, a flight attendant with 22 years of experience up in the skies, has revealed the reason why she never orders one particular drink when she is flying

A cabin crew member has shared the one drink she would not order on a plane.

Sue Fogwell, a veteran flight attendant with 22 years in the skies, says that a Bloody Mary is a bad idea on a plane. The cabin crew member told Travel + Leisure that the drink’s sodium level is a recipe for a bad time when up at 30,000 feet.

That is despite the fact that flying tends to leave passengers craving acidity and saltiness due to the extra air pressure—things that tomato juice should be able to deliver in good quantity.

“‘Due to the very high sodium content, I always avoid drinking Mr&Mrs T/bloody mary mix and tomato juice,” Sue said. She avoids the drink because high sodium levels can quickly make passengers feel dehydrated.

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There are other tipples that flight attendants advise avoiding. Jet, who also runs a blog sharing her in-flight experiences, has urged travellers to avoid fizzy drinks during their flights. It’s not the drinks themselves that are the issue, but rather the inconvenience they cause for flight attendants when serving them to passengers.

In her online blog, Jet shared that “soft drinks foam up a lot more when poured out of a can”, which means she has “to sit and wait for the bubbles to fall before I can continue pouring”.

This becomes especially time-consuming when there’s a line of passengers all wanting carbonated drinks, leading her to start pouring, take other orders, and then return to finish off the initial drink servings. And it’s not just about the inconvenience.

The dry cabin environment is another factor to consider, as consuming fizzy drinks or alcohol can worsen dehydration, potentially making you feel quite unwell. Furthermore, the fizziness in these drinks can lead to bloating and indigestion – neither of which are pleasant on a long-haul flight.

So, while your main considerations when ordering mid-flight might usually be cost and whether the hunger or thirst justifies the expense, flight attendants suggest there’s more to think about when choosing your in-flight refreshment.

TikTok’s very own flight attendant influencer, Brodie Capron, known on the platform as @brodie. capron, has recently taken to social media to debunk some common myths about in-flight tap water.

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The question of whether it’s safe to drink bottled water on planes is a frequent one, particularly with rumours that the onboard water filters are seldom thoroughly cleaned. However, Brodie, who works for Virgin Australia, put these rumours to bed by confirming that their tap water is indeed safe to drink.

She confidently declared: “Is the water safe to drink? Yes, it is. It’s filtered, and it’s clean.”

On the other hand, fellow flight attendant Deja, who shares her insights under the TikTok handle @i. amdejaa, questions the cleanliness of liquids stored on planes.

Her advice to travellers is straightforward: “When you are travelling on an aeroplane please don’t drink coffee or tea,” and she didn’t stop there, adding hot chocolate to the list of drinks to avoid while flying. Deja claims that the “water tanks on the aeroplane are never cleaned, and they are very disgusting”.