passengers

Eurostar passengers heading out of London St Pancras International have been advised to change their journey to a different travel date after severe delays in France

Eurostar passengers travelling today have been warned to cancel or postpone their trips as chaos erupted after two people were killed on the railway near Lille in France.

Those travelling between London St Pancras International and Gare Du Nord in Paris were delayed for hours in both directions yesterday, with some having their trains called altogether and others facing long delays, yesterday. The knock on effects of the delays is still affecting travellers today.

The French section is also facing more disruption today after cables were stolen and cut overnight in what the French authorities are calling a “a malicious act”.

Many affected passengers are stuck at the Eurostar terminal at London’s St Pancreas International, waiting with their luggage and jostling to find somewhere to sit among the crowds.

School children appear to be among those waiting as they head abroad for sporting competitions.

A Eurostar spokeswoman said on Tuesday: “Due to two persons struck by trains near Lille Europe, we’ve delays and cancellations to our services all evening. We apologise to everyone affected and advise changing your journey for a different travel date.”

And Eurostar confirmed: “All services between London, Brussels, and Paris are disrupted.”

French rail company SNCF said: “SNCF Réseau has been the victim of a major act of malicious intent in Lille.

“More than 600m of cable was stolen or cut south of Lille Europe station. The impacts are mainly on high-speed train traffic, departing from and arriving at Lille Europe and Lille Flandres.

“TGV trains are being diverted as much as possible to the conventional line, but the line’s capacity is limited and repairs are expected to take part of the day.”

The spokesman said around fifteen cable workers and specialist staff had been sent to the scene. Last February, 13 cables totalling several hundred meters were stolen from SNCF property in Lille, causing significant disruption to the network for an entire day.

EUROSTAR passengers were stuck for up to seven hours yesterday after two people were hit by trains.

The operator warned that delays and disruptions will continue into this morning.

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Trains in both directions between London St Pancras International and Gare Du Nord in Paris were either cancelled or delayed for hours.

It followed two separate fatalities, the first between Lille and Paris and around 5pm.

The second person was hit between Lille and Arras, according to local media.

Eurostar posted on X this morning to say trains will be running, but there area a “few cancellations” and “a lot of passengers travelling”.

“So the situation might still be difficult.”

Yesterday, there were massive queues at both the UK and French railway stations.

Many furious passengers who were stuck for hours took to social media to demand compensation.

One train, due to leave London at 2.31pm, was supposed to arrive at 5.57pm.

But it was delayed for four hours and didn’t get in until nearly 10pm.

Another frustrated passenger said they were on a train from London to Paris but they were stuck on it for seven hours.

Naomi Sanger, from Snodland, told KentOnline she boarded the 4.31pm at Gare Du Nord but it never left and she was left stranded at the station.

She posted on X that the food and drinks supply was running out, and the air con was not working.

In a statement on X, Eurostar said: “Due to a person struck by a train near Lille Europe, we are expecting delays and cancellations to our services this evening.

“We advise changing your journey for a different travel date.”

On Wednesday, Eurostar travellers were also hit by delays after a person was hit on the rails in France.

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As many Brits up and down the country prepare to jet off on their summer holidays, the Mirror takes a look at some of the worst passengers ever to cross the airport tarmac

When boarding a plane for a sunny summer holiday, many of us will be praying for a seatmate who doesn’t make us wish for the aircraft to simply turn around.

From passengers sticking their bare feet on the armrest to vicious spats about seat swaps, there are a number of cabin faux pas that can seriously dampen your holiday mood before you’d even had a chance to sample the drinks trolley.

But perhaps next time you sit next to a thunderous snorer, or an enthusiastic Pringles chewer who sprays crumbs all over your lap, you’ll remember that really, it could be so, so much worse.

Here, the Mirror takes a look at some of the most obnoxious passengers of all time, from potty-mouthed ranters to those whose selfish actions have posed a serious health and safety risk…

READ MORE: Warning greedy airlines can legally ‘bump’ you from your flight with little notice

Reckless emergency door act

Back in May, a young man caused chaos during a flight from Changsha, China, to Kunming Changshui International Airport after opening the emergency exit.

Just as China Eastern Airlines flight MU5828 was taxiing on the runway, he yanked the emergency handle and deployed the evacuation slide, causing complete panic onboard.

As witnesses later reported, he’d opened the exit to “get some fresh air”. His reckless actions resulted in a 20-minute delay for passengers wishing to disembark the aircraft.

The unnamed man was eventually escorted off the plane by police officers and taken for questioning. Thankfully, nobody was injured.

Depending on the plane and circumstances, those flying in China can face fines for opening an emergency exit ranging from £10,482 to £20,985 (CNY 100,000 and 200,000), China Eastern Airlines was previously approached for comment.

Cruel meltdown over seat

Shocking footage emerged this week of an allegedly intoxicated passenger cruelly raging that she had “sit next to a f***ing fat lady” during a flight from New York’s LaGuardia Airport to Kansas City.

Videos taken in the early hours of Monday, June 16, aboard a Southwest Airlines flight show the unamed woman pulling at another female passenger’s hair, spitting in her face and kicking her. Other clips show her screaming at the other passenger, and making nasty jibes about her physical appearance.

Slurring her words, she lashed out in an unacceptable rant, appearing to say: “Look at this fat lady. Look at this fat a** b****.”

The alleged foul-mouthed passenger also ridiculed the victim’s decision to wear a face mask, screeching: “It’s horrible. Look at her outfit. Look at this fat a** b****. Hilarious. You can’t even show your mouth because you’re embarrassed.”

Another passenger who recorded the scene told the Daily Mail that the woman had even “knocked the glasses off the Southwest employee”.

They claimed: ‘”When she first started saying stuff, I called out, ‘Why don’t you be nice?” She turned around and called me ugly a few times, and that I could never get a boyfriend or have sex. I looked at her and said I’ve been married for almost 20 years, lady’.”

Eventually, the ranting woman was escorted off the plane and was not permitted to return, Southwest Airlines informed the publication. The Port Authority Police Department also confirmed they’d been called at approximately 1.10 am following reports of an ‘intoxicated passenger’, who was then taken for hospital evaluation before being remanded into custody at New York City Department of Correction, on charges of aggravated assault.

A Southwest spokesperson stated: “We commend our Team for their professionalism during the incident.” The woman, a 32-year-old New York resident, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault.

Punching cabin crew

In May this year, an aggressive passenger was escorted off a flight from Gran Canaria to Birmingham after allegedly punching a member of cabin crew in the face.

The passenger, who witnesses say was inebriated, had to be led off the plane in handcuffs following an hour-long ordeal that left air hostesses in tears.

Staff even had to use a ‘restraint kit’ in a desperate bid to get the situation under control. An eyewitness told The Sun: “It all kicked off just before 1 am as we were landing in Birmingham from Las Palmas.

“When they slammed the brakes, he was shouting that the plane was going to crash. He started shouting at the hostesses and got up to go to the toilet compartment.

“The stewardess told him to sit back down, which he did, but then he got back up for the second time and went to the same place. There was a lot of screaming and shouting between him and the crew, and then he punched an air hostess in the nose.”

They continued: “Air hostesses were screaming for police in panic – they were shook up and crying. People had to tell them to stop screaming because it was scaring the kids – it was a nightmare.”

Cheers rang out across the cabin as West Midlands Police arrived to deal with the violent troublemaker, who reportedly resisted arrest.

Failed exit dash

An entitled woman who was in a frantic rush to be the first one off the plane following an already tiresome eight-hour flight ended up getting more than she bargained for when the captain publicly called her out, to the delight of her seatmates.

Showing no care whatsoever for seat etiquette, the passenger determinedly leapt from her seat as soon as the plane hit tarmac, making a beeline for the exit. The seatbelt sign was still on, and flight attendants pleaded with her to return to her seat until they came to a safe stop. However, she paid them no heed.

Having none of her antics, the captain himself then decided to get involved, revealing that he had a “special guest onboard”, whom he would be greeting after they arrived at the gate. Recalling the incident in a Reddit post, a passenger who witnessed the brazen dash wrote: “The woman stood there awkwardly until we did the whole rolling into the gate thing, and whatever planes do when they land, for about 15 to 20 minutes.

“Everyone sat there waiting to see what the captain was talking about. Eventually, the captain came out and asked the lady to please move back a little to get to his special guest, then a little more, then a little more. He was looking from row to row, trying to find a specific person. Everyone is watching and looking around to see who it could be.”

The pilot continued ushering the cheeky traveller back one row at a time until, finally, they were at the very back of the plane. He then requested that she sit down for a moment while he grabbed the intercom. The Reddit user continued: “He said, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to announce our special guest sitting in seat 42C. Let’s give her a round of applause’. The whole plane went wild with laughter and applause. I loved every moment of that.”

Reclining seat karma

A ticked-off woman decided to exact a “14-hour revenge” against an elderly power couple who “gloated” after buckling themselves into seats which had been reserved for her and her then-husband. When they confronted the couple, they refused point-blank to move, as “they had scored three seats to their two bottoms, whereas the row in front had a very slim girl at the window”.

A flight attendant got involved, by which point the audacious couple played “the age card” to get their own way. The woman and her now ex were asked to sit in front, next to the “slim girl who took up no room whatsoever”.

When they overheard the couple “loudly gloating” about their brazen behaviour, they began taking petty revenge, reclining in order to reduce their leg room. Then, as the indignant passenger put it, “Karma took a dump on the gloating couple’s lap”.

Taking to Reddit, the now-vindicated woman revealed: “So here we were settled when this man started walking up the plane. he was a very, very large man, long, long dreadlocks, shoving a baguette in his mouth as he made his way up the aisle. My husband just looked at me and smiled as he realised the only spare seat was that window seat, which would have been next to mine.

“Karma took a dump on the gloating couple’s lap as the man asked them to move so he could get into his seat. Once settled, he took up a lot of the space, and once in the air, the lady called a hostess down and started having a strop about how we had stolen their seats and that we had refused to move when they boarded.”

“Sadly for the lady, our argument at the start of the flight had been witnessed by the staff as everyone else was settled by then so she was shut down by the staff who refused to move us.”

To the amusement of their new enemies, the seat thieves endured a “miserable” 14-hour flight, with their unexpected seatmate repeatedly getting up for the toilet, and to grab extra snacks and beverages.

‘Inexcusable’ Ryanair damages

Back in January, Ryanair announced it would be pursuing legal action against an unruly passenger, whose “completely unacceptable” behaviour resulted in a Dublin to Lanzarote flight having to be diverted to Porto, Portugal.

Revealing that they would be suing the unnamed passenger to the tune of £12,500, the airline told of how the flight had been delayed overnight, causing 160 passengers to “face unnecessary disruption as well as losing a full day of their holiday”.

The damages sought were intended to cover accommodation costs plus any other expenses for passengers affected by the “inexcusable” antics. It was also hoped that the legal action taken would deter any other future troublemakers from following suit.

Describing the incident as a “major clampdown”, a spokesperson released the following statement on the Ryanair website: “It is unacceptable that passengers – many of whom are heading away with family or friends to enjoy a relaxing summer holiday – are suffering unnecessary disruption and reduced holiday time as a result of one unruly passenger’s behaviour.”

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

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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.”

READ MORE: Cabin crew horror as flight attendant shares one ‘pre-used’ item given to flyers

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.”

Qantas’ Travel Insider’s network has shared their top tips for packing ‘smartly’, including how to properly select and pack one essential item you are sure to need on every holiday

A group of Travel Insider writers for Qantas have divulged their best jet-setting secrets and name one space-sucking item you should avoid packing. Dubbed the “biggest space enemy”, this common travel essential should be packed in wisely and sparingly.

Qantas’ network of travel experts shared their space-saving packing hacks to help you fly like a pro. One of the key insights shared by an expert is to “only pack three pairs of shoes” at the most.

“Shoes are my biggest space enemy when it comes to packing efficiently,” shared the expert. But they provided excellent advice about which three types of shoes you should limit yourself to when packing.

READ MORE: Cabin crew horror as flight attendant shares one ‘pre-used’ item given to flyers

“I always try to apply the rule of three: one pair for going out, one pair of flats for day and one pair of running shoes for walking around and exercise (I’m usually wearing sneakers on the plane, which I can then wear day or night).”

The Travel Insider network shared a whole host of other exceptional tips to keep top of mind next time you’re packing. Another key tip was to keep your shoes in shower caps when travelling.

“Enclosing your shoes in the one–use plastic shower caps that are complimentary in most hotel rooms prevents the often–dirty soles making contact with your garments. Plus, they’re not as bulky or inflexible as shoe bags” advised one writer.

Other great tips include saving skincare samples to ensure a full suite of products on any trip – that stay within liquid and weight limits. As well as lining the edge of your baggage with your belts as opposed to rolling them up which takes more valuable space. Qantas’ travel experts also remind air travellers to pack “smartly” for easy access to essential items.

“Keep all the items you know you’ll want for the flight – tablet, headphones, wrap, passport, pen – in a separate pouch inside your carry–on bag. It’s easy to grab before you stow your bigger bag in the overhead locker and not only means you can settle into your seat faster but stops you having to get up and down to retrieve things you may have forgotten.”

If you struggle to decide what items deserve pride of place in your hand luggage, the experts at Flash Pack have you covered. The social travel platform has created an extensive list of the key items you should keep in your hand luggage.

Apart from your passport and travel documents, Flash Pack advises passengers to always travel with a spare pair of socks and underwear in their hand luggage to ‘prepare for the worst’.

Full checklist for carry-on essentials by Flash Pack

• Passport
• Portable charger
• Jewellry and other valuables
• Headphones
• Wash bag packed with all the essentials (toothbrush, face wipes, deodorant, etc.)
• Essential medications
• Refillable water bottle
• Socks & underwear
• Chewing gum or sweets
• Entertainment (book, magazine, tablet)
• Eye mask
• Ear plugs
• Neck pillow
• Compression socks
• Blanket
• Hand sanitiser

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.

READ MORE: Cabin crew horror as flight attendant shares one ‘pre-used’ item given to flyersREAD MORE: Flight attendant reveals first thing crew do in an emergency at 30,000ft

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].

The easyJet flight from Cyprus to Bristol was forced to land in Turkey due to the smell of smoke on the aircraft, with one passenger revealing the ‘mayhem’ it caused on board

A passenger on an easyJet flight, which was forced to make an emergency landing due to the smell of smoke, has recounted his harrowing ordeal, revealing that he and his fellow travellers “thought that they were going to die.”

The easyJet service, flying from Paphos, Cyprus, to Bristol Airport on Saturday (June 14), had to make an unscheduled descent into Izmir, Turkey, just an hour and 20 minutes after takeoff.

Jamie Shorland, returning from a trip to see his grandfather in Cyprus with a friend, was aboard when the smoke alarms went off. He described how the crew’s lack of communication likely added to the ensuing chaos.

The 21-year-old Exeter resident detailed that the plane, already behind schedule by half an hour, finally left the ground at 10:30 p.m. It was while soaring over the Turkish coast that Jamie sensed trouble brewing. Jamie said: “The air cabin crew were told to put away the catering trolleys, whilst we were told no information at all, then we were told to brace for an emergency landing.”

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He continued: “We were above the water so we thought we’d crash into the sea, there was pure panic and none of the crew were helpful. I thought to myself ‘this is how it ends’, people were screaming ‘we are going to die!'”.

“One father rushed up the plane to hug his kids and the airline staff told him to go back to his seat. He told them to ‘f**k off, if I am going to die I am going to be with my kids.'”

Speaking to BristolLive, Jamie described the terrifying moment their aircraft suddenly veered off course, executing a gut-wrenching 180-degree turn towards Turkey, with passengers experiencing the sensation of the plane flying sideways before it dramatically dropped 15,000ft.

“I saw cabin crew crying at the back of the plane thinking they were going to die, however the plane flew into Izmir and landed at the airport,” Jamie said. “It was a traumatic experience, I genuinely thought I was going to die. I was trying to think happy thoughts of my family as we fell through the sky.”

He recounted the disorder that ensued: “It was a load of mayhem, the plane had no lights and it was a scary time.”

Passengers made to wait half an hour as firefighters stormed plane

Further tension followed after the emergency landing as passengers were made to wait onboard for half an hour amidst confusion, while firefighters swarmed the aircraft.

In the midst of uncertainty after landing, Jamie watched as emergency crews accompanied the plane until it came to a full stop, resulting in firefighters storming the laneway.

Passengers remained in limbo, confined within the aircraft without sufficient information. After a tense 20 minutes, they gradually learned that the ordeal might be linked to a fault with the cooling system.

Following the incident, EasyJet confirmed that accommodations were arranged for all affected travellers, spreading them across three hotels. Jamie was briefed on the arrangements, being told he could remain at the hotel until 6pm on Sunday in anticipation of the rescheduled 10pm flight.

Jamie recounted the mayhem that ensued at their hotel, with all guests being asked to leave suddenly at noon, resulting in a prolonged wait at the airport for a flight that was further delayed until 11pm.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Jamie expressed his apprehension about flying again: “I did not want to leave Izmir, I thought ‘I might not make it’.”

Airline criticised over lack of response

EasyJet was heavily criticised for their poor communication during the disruption.

Jamie reported difficulty in getting information from easyJet, saying the airline wasn’t helpful: “They’ve been no help at all, the pilot [of the initial flight] even made a joke after landing telling everyone to buy a lottery ticket because ‘we got lucky’, I couldn’t believe it.”

After the delayed take-off, the flight landed at Bristol Airport at 12.30am on Monday, with Jamie arriving in Exeter just before 3am.

He described the ordeal’s impact on his companion, stating: “It was my friend’s first time flying in 12 years. We will never get on a plane again, I’ve never been so scared of flying, it was the worst experience of my life.”

EasyJet released an official statement on Saturday, June 15: “We can confirm that flight EZY2902 from Paphos to Bristol diverted to Izmir due to a technical issue which resulted in a smoke smell onboard.

“The aircraft landed safely in Izmir and was met by emergency services as a routine and precautionary measure only.

“All passengers disembarked as normal into the terminal and were provided with hotel accommodation and meals where required. Passengers will continue to Bristol on a replacement aircraft later today.”

The carrier emphasised its commitment to safety: “The safety of our customers and crew is easyJet’s highest priority and easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers’ guidelines.

“We would like to thank customers for their understanding and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

Ryanair has singled out the UK as among the worst countries in Europe for air traffic control-caused flight delays – as the airline demanded the European Commission take action

Ryanair has launched a withering attack on air traffic control delays in the UK and a number of other countries.

Boss Michael O’Leary claimed a “scandal” of short staffing and mismanagement had caused widespread disruption for the airline and passengers. He singled out air traffic control in the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Greece.

Mr O’Leary said it “can no longer be tolerated”, as he called on the European Commission to intervene.

Ryanair stepped up its attack by comparing the five countries with five others with, it said, the best track record on delays. The Irish airline said 3,380 of its flights last year were impacted by delays on UK air traffic control, soaring to 35,100 in France. Yet that compared with just 210 in Slovakia that had delays, and only 70 in Ireland.

Mr O’Leary branded operators in France, Spain, Germany, Greece and the UK “hopelessly mismanaged”. He went on: “The difference is that these are protected state monopolies, who don’t care about customer service, they don’t care about passengers, and they don’t care about their airline customers either. Every year they are short-staffed and they are responsible for over 90% of Europe’s flight delays, which adds an extra 10% to aviation emissions in Europe.

Mr O’Leary added: “Ryanair, our customers, and our passengers are fed up with these avoidable ATC delays, which are imposed on us every Summer by the French, the Germans, the Spanish, the Greeks and the British. All that is necessary to properly manage their ATC service is to recruit and train sufficient air traffic controllers, just as the Irish, the Danes, the Dutch, the Belgians and the Slovakians have already shown.

“It is time for this European mismanagement and incompetence to end, or for ATC services of France, Germany, Spain, Greece, and the UK to be opened up to the competition.”

Ryanair last week issued a warning to holidaymakers after travel chaos at several airports in Portugal meant that hundreds were left stranded at departure gates. The budget airline said more than 270 passengers have missed their flights over the past two weeks due to extensive queues and chronic understaffing at border control.

The worst delays are being felt in Faro, Lisbon and Porto airports, with wait times reportedly stretching to a staggering two and a half hours. In a statement, Ryanair called the situation as “completely unacceptable”, calling on Portugal’s new government to sort out the staffing crisis.

Ryanair placed the blame with airport operator ANA, accusing it of failing to prepare adequately for the annual summer travel surge.

easyJet is a popular budget airline for Brits looking to book a cheap getaway, but passengers will need to act fast if they want to get the best seats onboard for free

easyJet, renowned for its competitively priced airfares with offerings starting from just £25.99 for summer flights, often sees the cost for passengers climb as they add extras to their journey. Those yearning to secure additional baggage or fancy choosing a specific seat will notice their bargain fare gently escalating.

The popular low-cost airline has a clear stance on seat selection; if patrons wish to handpick their seats, they’ll need to dip into their pockets. Explaining their policy, easyJet said: “You can choose where you’d like to sit for a fee. Seats can be selected at the time of booking, or at any time before you check-in, via Manage bookings on our website or mobile app.”

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Travelers are given three pricing tiers depending on the type of seat sought – standard, extra legroom, or up-front positions. However, for those unwilling to splurge on seating, early check-in is the tactical alternative, reports the Express.

A feature that distinguishes easyJet from other carriers is the ability to check in as much as 30 days prior to departure. They noted: “If you don’t select a seat we’ll assign seats randomly for free when you check in and will do all we can to ensure everyone on the booking sits together. However, this is not guaranteed, especially when checking in closer to departure.”

It’s wise, therefore, for passengers looking to nab the best available seats available and who wish to stick close to their travelling companions, to act swiftly and check in at the earliest opportunity.

If you’re the type who prefers a specific seat or section of the plane, it might be worth paying in advance. The price of seats fluctuates based on when you book and your preferred location within the aircraft.

Seats in the first row, offering additional legroom, start from £12.99, while up-front or overwing seats with extra legroom begin at £7.99. Other standard seats can be switched for as little as 99p, depending on your desired location onboard and the timing of your booking.

Seat selection can be made at the time of booking, or anytime prior to check-in by logging into manage your booking online or via the mobile app.

The new £400million project, in the mountains of Neath Port Talbot, will have miles of railway tracks and station platforms – but it’s not for everyday passengers

A whopping £400 million train line and station, which won’t be used by the general public, is planned for a patch of land the size of Gibraltar.

The project, nestled in the mountains of Neath Port Talbot in Wales, is not intended for everyday commuters but rather for testing new trains, including high-speed and hydrogen-powered models.

Known as the Global Centre of Rail Excellence, this unique venture is being built on a massive 700-hectare site near the village of Onllwyn, just 17 miles north of Neath. The centre, which is being constructed on the former Nant Helen opencast site and Onllwyn Washery, is expected to be fully operational by 2027.

Once completed, it will operate round-the-clock, offering rail enthusiasts ample opportunity to test the next generation of engines. The site will feature two seven-kilometre looped tracks.

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This pioneering development could mark a first for the rail industry. Reports suggest that the centre “plugs a significant gap in European rail by providing a purpose-built, single site for world class research,” and that it “allows products to be tested to the highest technology readiness levels, in a live environment, with no risk to the mainline.”

It is hoped that the test centre will let developers put new ideas and innovations to the test before they are deployed in major projects, helping develop future transport systems.

Lewis Smith, a reporter for Wales Online, recently toured the site, which developers claim will be larger than Gibraltar when finished. “If you can test trains or technology systems that work up here, they should be able to work anywhere,” a worker shared with him.

“Whilst today’s fog obscures most of the expected views, the sheer magnitude of work required becomes evident – not only in transforming the landscape for the facility, but also in securing the hundreds of millions of pounds needed from private investors, coupled with over £90 million from Welsh and UK Government funding, for the site to reach its full potential,” he penned.

“Along the journey, we witness the initial stages of works to clear the path for the loop tracks, as well as the early sections of track being laid at the former mining facility – which workers say previously saw more than two million tonnes of coal extracted. We also pass the old shower and locker facilities, still standing from the area’s mining days, complete with hi-vis jackets and helmets, almost as if a group of workers had just finished a shift earlier that day.”

Simon Jones, the Global Centre of Rail Excellence, said: “I don’t think these kinds of projects come around very often, particularly projects like this which have got Government support from both the UK and Welsh Government.

“What it means for the people here is that we’ll be creating a site where the railway industry across the UK and Europe will come here to carry out testing for their innovations in a way that they just can’t do anywhere else. We’ve got 170 companies now from across Europe who’ve pledged their support for what we’re doing and who want to be able to use this place, so that’s just going to create jobs and opportunities for people.

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“There are some sites elsewhere in the UK and there are some sites in Europe, but none of them do what we are planning to do so we are unique. There is nowhere in the UK where people can do high speed testing of trains on a looped track, and that sounds insignificant but actually being able to just drive continuously round without having to reverse the train every time you do a test is a huge time saving.”

While the project would bring a huge amount of money into the area, its future is not secure, despite the land being “shovel-ready”.

GCRE, which is owned by but operates at arm’s length from the Welsh Government, has secured funding of £50m from the Cardiff Bay administration and £20m from the UK Government, originally signed off by the former Conservative Westminster administration. This leaves it needing to raise around £330m, Wales Online reported earlier this year.

Mr Jones said: “2025 will be the moment when all of our hard work at GCRE over the last seven years comes to a decision point. From the start, the model for GCRE has been to use the public funding set aside for us – £50m from the Welsh Government and a £20m grant from the UK Government -to prepare the development to a point where the £400m project could be taken to market. That process began in April 2023, when GCRE undertook a public procurement exercise to secure the private finance we needed.”

GCRE has been contacted for comment.

Rather than the classic ’round the waist’ belt that most plane seats provide, flight attendants are treated to a much more secure ‘X’ across the body design

A flight attendant has explained why they have to wear different seatbelts from paying customers.

If you’ve ever been on a commercial flight and torn yourself away from the in-flight entertainment for a moment, you may have noticed that the cabin crew strap themselves into their seats with different belts.

Rather than the classic ’round the waist’ belt that most plane seats provide, flight attendants are treated to a much more secure ‘X’ across the body design.

A Reddit user recently visited the ‘NoStupidQuestions’ subreddit to ask: “Why do flight attendants have the cross body ‘X’ seat belt on their seats, whereas passengers only get the horizontal ones across the waist?”

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A former flight attendant kindly rode in to explain that the difference isn’t because customers are “too stupid” to use anything more complex than the passenger belts provided, but because of the way the crew’s seats are installed.

The aviator said that flight attendants’ seats were not bolted to the aircraft in the same way as passengers’ seats, meaning they moved around far more during take-off and landing.

“We needed the extra harness because that thing was bouncy as h**l on a normal takeoff and landing,” they wrote.

The cabin crew member went on to argue that passengers should welcome the fact that flight attendants seem to have a little extra security, as it’s they who are on hand to guide customers to safety in the event of an emergency.

According to Aerosavvy.com, the extra strap is there to work in the same way as the seat in front does for passengers. If a plane were to crash or stop suddenly, the seat in front would stop a passenger from being chucked forward.

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Given that flight attendants do not have the same setup, the extra strap is on hand. Marina Efthymiou, an aviation expert, told Metro that passengers “wouldn’t keep their seatbelts on if they were like the ones cabin crew wear”.

The lives of flights attendants, and the curious world of planes in general, is one that appears to be endlessly fascinating for those who haven’t glimpsed behind the curtain.

Recently a cabin crew member highlighted the “secret button” in aeroplane armrests that is a game-changing convenience for those in the aisle seat.

The little-known – or often forgotten – button is located on the underside or side of the aisle armrest and makes it easier to move around onboard. Fly Arna – Armenia’s national airline and well-known low-cost carrier – shared a video on its TikTok account of one of its cabin crew members revealing little-known features on its aircrafts.

The video has been viewed over 100,000 times with many excited over the “secret button” reveal. Seated in an aisle seat of a Fly Arnra carrier, the cabin crew member in the video shows that there is a “secret button” in the armrest. Pressing the button allows passengers to lift the aisle seat armrest, making it easier for everyone in the row to exit the aisle.

In a huge blow to Brits, EU countries have green-lighted controversial plans to lengthen the wait time before delayed passengers can claim compensation for both short and long-haul journeys

Customers flying with some big name air operators on short-haul flights have been hit with a brutal four-hour warning over a controversial shakeup.

After 12 years of wrangling, EU countries have green-lighted plans to lengthen the wait time before flyers can lodge claims for delayed flights. Currently, passengers have to be delayed by more than three hours before qualifying for compensation.

However, under the new stipulations – which still have to be negotiated with the European Parliament before they become law – short-haul travellers will only be eligible to claim compensation after being delayed by four hours or more, while those on longer journeys will have to sit tight for a six-hour hold-up before they can lodge a compensation claim.

READ MORE: Ryanair axes all flights from EU airport and adds new UK flight in major revamp

It’s not all bad news though, as EU nations have also agreed to increase the amount of compensation for those delayed on short-haul journeys from €250 (approx £210.47) to €300 (£252.56). But, passengers hit with delays on long-haul flights could see their compensation reduce from €600 (£505) to €500 (£420).

The trade body Airlines for Europe (A4E), which represents companies such as Ryanair, easyJet and Lufthansa, and The European Consumer Organisation, the BEUC, both slammed the rules – arguing it would deprive the majority of passengers from being able to claim compensation. This is because most delays are only between two and four hours.

“Europe has been waiting for transparent and workable passenger rights for 12 years and member states have fallen at the final hurdle to deliver,” A4E said. “Member states have diluted the European Commission’s original proposal and introduced even more complexity.”

According to Yorkshire Live, German members of the European People’s Party have also expressed their disapproval, stating that ‘decreasing the rights to compensation for air passengers would be a step in the wrong direction’. “Reimbursement after a three-hour delay has been standard for many years and should remain so,” they added.

A senior EU diplomat is believed to have said that ‘no politician wants to say more than four hours’ at risk of dampening Europeans’ holiday plans. The news comes amidst accusations by 16 consumer protection associations from 12 Member States against seven budget airlines for imposing unfair charges on passengers’ hand luggage.

“The European Court of Justice has made it very clear that hand baggage is an integral part of the basic ticket price. Normally, there is no surcharge on the price as long as the hand luggage is of a reasonable size,” explained Steven Berger, a solicitor with the European Consumers’ Organisation (BEUC).

“All we’re seeing is a proliferation of airlines charging for this baggage… We’re calling for very clear rules. Passengers must be able to take one piece of luggage, a small suitcase or a rucksack.”

He added: “At the moment, there are two different opposing positions among the member states in the Council. On the whole, you have the camp of the member states that are going to defend the three hours to be able to benefit from the right to compensation and others that are going to ask for five hours and nine hours based on distance. So right now this is really the big source of conflict.”

*Prices based on EUR to GBP conversions at the time of writing.

What do you think of the proposed rules? Let us know in the comments section below

GREECE’S biggest island is getting a huge new £422million airport.

Heraklion, on the island of Crete, is currently preparing for a new airport in Kastelli which is scheduled to open in February 2027.

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According to the New Heraklion International Airport, the new airport will serve 10million passengers each year, after opening.

This number will then rise to 18million after some time.

There will be 19 boarding gates, eight of which will be of combined use for Schengen and Non-Schengen flights.

There will be space for 27 aircraft and also a terminal building with five levels of retail space and permanent exhibition areas.

A masterplan map also shows an area shaded in purple that suggest future retail space.

In addition, the airport is due to be one of the biggest in the country and when it opens it will replace the existing Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport in Heraklion.

Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport opened back in 1937, however, it can only accommodate eight million passengers a year.

Kastelli International Airport is being built to handle the growing number of tourists heading to Greece each year.

The airport will be located a 25-minute drive away from Heraklion, which is the largest city on the island.

In total, the airport is expected to cost €500million (£422million) to build and generate a total of 7,500 jobs in the area as well as a further 37,000 indirect jobs.

In addition, the new airport is expected to give new life to Crete’s tourism.

According to Tornos News, the new airport will create a number of new roads and contain one runway which stretches 3,200 metres long with one parallel aircraft movement taxiway,

A trial launch of of the airport will take place next summer, before a full opening in 2027.

Currently, airlines including easyJet, Jet2 and British Airways fly to Crete.

These are likely to move to the new airport when it opens.

And there are a number of other new exciting airports opening around the world.

A new £25billion mega airport is also opening in Europe to ‘take on Heathrow and Dubai’ with 65milllion passengers.

Plus, one of the world’s busiest airports reveals plans for new £7billion mega terminal with 50million more passengers.

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Fred Olsen cruise line has launched a huge summer sale and Brits can currently get free drinks packages on a host of sailings in 2025 including Northern Lights cruises

Brits planning cruise holidays this year may want to check out Fred. Olsen’s latest summer sale, as the cruise line is currently offering a tempting deal with drinks.

Cruises already include plenty such as your food, accommodation and travel, but if you want drinks, these usually come at an extra cost on the majority of cruise lines. A drinks package can be a great way of being able to indulge in a tipple or two without having to worry about the size of your bill at the end of the holiday, but these also come at an extra cost.

However, Fred. Olsen is currently offering free drinks packages on over 40 sailings in 2025. That will include a range of house beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks too.

Holidaymakers who book by June 25, 2025, will be able to enjoy the free drinks, worth £24.99 per person per night (or if you’re booking five-night cruises, worth £35.99 per person, per night).

You can already book on the Fred Olsen website, and there’s an impressive array of itineraries included whether you’re hoping to make the most of the summer sun on a sailing to Spain, or have a bucket-list-worthy winter and go in search of the Northern Lights.

There’s more good news as the sailings are across all three of its ships – Bolette, Borealis and Balmoral – with a range of UK departure ports including Southampton, Dover, Portsmouth, Liverpool, Newcastle and Rosyth (Edinburgh).

Whatever cruise itinerary you’re eyeing up, according to one cruise insider there are six items you should always pack before heading to the ship. One top tip? Packing both a backpack for your onshore excursions, but also a smaller evening bag for around the ship so you can carry a few essentials whether heading to dinner, a show or even just enjoying a trip to the bar.

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A card holder is also another essential item, although if you book a package that includes your drinks, gratuities and service charges, then you may not need to think too much about additional costs throughout the holiday!

Meanwhile, sun-seeking Brits may want to keep an eye out for itineraries featuring Cartagena in Spain, after the beautiful city was named the sunniest in Europe. The historic port city, which is a popular stop for cruise ships, boasts a plethora of gorgeous architecture, as well as impressive museums and an eye-catching Roman amphitheatre. Unsurprisingly, it’s a firm favourite with history and culture fans as well the foodies who flock to the city to indulge in some of that mouthwatering Spanish food. (Tapas and wine, anyone?).

The cruise hotspot is underrated, with most tourists opting for the likes of Alicante or Murcia instead, so one of the benefits of visiting is that it doesn’t always have the huge crowds found in other spots in peak months (although on a shore day, you might find it a little busier because of the cruise crowds).

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

The London-based airport shared some crucial advice on X, formerly Twitter, earlier today

Heathrow Airport has shared some key guidance for anyone planning to fly with them soon. Travellers are encouraged to follow four key steps before going through security to save time and hassle.

“Flying soon?” the London-based airport asked in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “Here are some useful tips to help prepare you when going through security at Heathrow:

“Liquids under 100ml and in a clear bag, Place electronic devices in a separate tray, Limit your hand luggage, Keep security trays to a minimum.”

If you’re wondering what ‘counts’ as a liquid, electronic device and how luggage can be kept to a minimum, fear not. The Mirror has further delved into these tips, highlighting some crucial dos and don’ts.

1. The 100ml rule

Grasping the criteria for liquids in aeroplane carry-on luggage might appear straightforward, but specific rules could surprise you. When bringing liquids in hand luggage, most UK airports – including Heathrow – require that each container hold a maximum of 100ml.

All containers must also fit into a single transparent plastic bag, approximately 20cm x 20cm in size. The Government’s website clarifies that all items should fit ‘comfortably inside the bag’ so that it can be sealed.

To avoid complications, do not attempt to seal it by tying a knot at the top, as it will not be accepted.

The UK Government’s complete list of what’s considered hand luggage liquid is below:

• Pastes, including toothpaste
• Gels, including hair and shower gel
• All drinks, including water
• Cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss
• Liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example, soup, jam, honey and syrups
• Any other solutions and items of similar consistency
• Sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants
• Contact lens solution

Products such as solid deodorant sticks, bars of soap, wet wipes, and lip balms are typically classified as non-liquids. As a result, they generally do not need to be stored in the bag.

Advice from Heathrow Airport adds: “Only limited quantities of liquids may be carried through airport security into the departure lounge. This includes bottled drinks, suntan lotion, fragrances, cosmetics, toiletries and all frozen liquids.

“…Liquids in containers over 100ml will not be permitted through security – please pack them in your hold baggage instead.”

2. Heathrow’s two-bag policy

Heathrow Airport enforces a ‘two-bag policy’ at its security point to avoid delays. Only two hand baggage items must be taken through the control area.

Any items larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 18in x 10in) must be checked in as hold luggage, according to the airport’s guidance. It also stresses: “Handbags and laptop bags count as a piece of hand baggage.”

By adhering to the two-bag rule, passengers are better positioned to keep the security trays they use to a minimum, too.

3. Electronic devices

Guidance from the UK Government highlights that only specific electronic devices are allowed on flights and within hand luggage when travelling from the UK.

While some airlines might have different restrictions, these are nine key items you can take in both your hand luggage and hold luggage:

• Mobile phones
• Laptops
• Tablet devices
• MP3 players
• Hairdryers
• Straighteners
• Travel iron
• Electric shaver
• Most cameras

Crucially, any passengers who use e-cigarettes should transport these in their hand luggage, not hold luggage. Placing electronic devices in a specific tray during security checks ensures that staff can easily see and confirm that no prohibited items are concealed.

Heathrow Airport’s advice also adds: “Please ensure your electronic devices are charged. If they don’t switch on, you may not be allowed to take them on to the aircraft. Charging points are available throughout the airport.”

PASSENGERS could enjoy quicker journeys and fewer delays under the first shake-up of flight paths in 70 years.

Ministers have ordered an overhaul of UK airspace to create more direct routes.

The review could also let planes climb into the sky quicker to reduce the noise for communities below.

In the long-term, the government says the redesign would even create the necessary airspace for the “flying taxis” of the future to operate.

Britain’s flightpaths have not been changed since the 1950s when there were just 200,000 flights per year, compared with 2.7million in 2024.

It has resulted in flight congestion that often forces planes to circle overhead before landing, causing frustration to passengers as well as more emissions.

A new UK Airspace Design Service will be up and running by the end of the year, and will first focus on re-carving London’s flightpaths in anticipation of a third Heathrow runway.

Transport Minister Mike Kane said: “Redesigned ‘skyways’ will turbocharge growth in the aviation industry.

“Not least by boosting airport expansion plans and supporting job creation, driving millions into the UK economy as part of the Plan for Change.

“Modernising our airspace is also one of the simplest ways to help reduce pollution from flying and will set the industry up for a long-term sustainable future.”

Tim Alderslade of Airlines UK added: “Modernising UK airspace is long overdue.

“These changes will help to speed up a programme that will provide tangible reforms, from a reduction in delays, improved resilience and lower carbon emissions.”

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Although easyJet has not announced the cancellation of any flights yet, there is potential for considerable disruption involving UK flights. EasyJet is scheduled to run services from the UK to Milan, Naples, Catania and Caserta tomorrow

Passengers have been told to expect a ‘perfect storm’ of disruption when three separate strikes coincide to potentially cause travel chaos this week.

EasyJet customers travelling to or from Italy tomorrow may face a triple-whammy of disruption, starting with the airline’s air crew going on strike. The budget airline’s flight attendants belonging to European trade union USB Lavoro Privato are set to walk out tomorrow, potentially resulting in widespread disruption to the airline’s services tomorrow.

Although easyJet has not announced the cancellation of any flights yet, there is potential for considerable disruption involving UK flights. EasyJet is scheduled to run services from the UK to Milan, Naples, Catania and Caserta tomorrow.

However, the budget airline has told the Mirror that is does not expect any disruption to its schedule.

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

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There are two other strikes taking place tomorrow that may impact travellers. Taxi services in cities including Rome, Naples and Turin may be significantly limited due to a series of strikes by local drivers.

Workers at Swissport an airport ground services and handling company that lists easyJet, British Airways, TUI and Wizz among its customers, are set to walkout, also on Wednesday. All strikes are set to take place between 1pm and 5pm CET (12pm and 4pm UK time).

While easyJet staff plan to strike nationally, the airports most likely to be affected by the handler strikes include two of Milan’s major air hubs, Malpensa and Linate airports.

Anton Radchenko, CEO at air passenger rights experts AirAdvisor, said: “Strikes by easyJet staff and workers from one of the airline’s key handling partners could present a perfect storm of disruption for passengers planning to fly with the company on the 28th.

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“These strikes represent the fourth wave of easyJet staff strikes in 2025 already, with staff previously walking out in February, March and April this year – and four sets of strikes in four months suggests that discontent from the airline’s workers could be a theme that continues throughout the year.

“While easyJet can’t be blamed for Swissport staff striking on the same day – the two strikes combining gives the airline a real headache to try and navigate, as Swissport works with easyJet on airport operations. As these strikes specifically involve easyJet staff, you may be due compensation of up to £520 if your flight is cancelled. This is because that disruption to journeys caused by airline staff taking industrial action is viewed as within its control, i.e. they could have prevented the strikes from happening through negotiations.

“Likewise, if your easyJet flight is delayed by over three hours as a result of the strikes, you may be due compensation for the inconvenience. If your flight is moved to the day after you were originally due to travel, easyJet will be responsible for putting you up in overnight accommodation.

“As well as Wednesday 28th, it’s possible that easyJet services in the days that follow will be affected. If your journey is disrupted, keep evidence like SMS or email notifications from the airline as evidence, and use a free compensation calculator to establish what you may be owed.”

A spokesperson for easyJet said: “There is no impact expected to our flying programme tomorrow.”

A former Caledonian Airways cabin crew member has shared her advice on what foods to avoid on-board and explains why a more expensive travel class may not mean a better meal

Many airlines have been striving to improve the poor reputation of in-flight food by expanding their menus. But one former cabin crew member says there are some foods you should still avoid.

Charlotte Crocker spent 12 years working as cabin crew on long-haul flights for airlines including Thomas Cook, Astraeus and Caledonian Airways. Speaking to Metro, Crocker shared what in-flight food you should avoid, and explained why the meals are so salty.

When it comes to food worth avoiding, the ex-air hostess shared that passengers should avoid any food (fruit and salad in particular) that isn’t served in a sealed packet. “Cabin crew are trying their best, but it gets very busy in the galley during catering, sometimes lids get dropped and salad doesn’t always get washed,” explains Crocker.

READ MORE: Cabin crew reveals two popular drinks you should ‘never’ consume on a flight

Though she emphasises that you are unlikely to get food poisoning on a flight and that travellers just need to use “common sense” when it comes to what they’re eating. She also shared that she avoids drinking alcohol on planes.

“Personally, I don’t drink alcohol on planes as it’s very dehydrating. I also try to stay away from anything fizzy as well as food that’s too salty or spicy because it causes bloating and nobody wants to be unwell on a plane.”

You may have noticed that the food choices in the cabin are not known to be particularly healthy, and tend to be quite salty. She added: “It’s difficult to have healthy food at 35,000 feet” and there is a reason it’s usually sodium-heavy.

“Our bodies are functioning differently at that [high] altitude, so our tastes change and the food becomes bland, so we end up having to put lots of salt and seasoning on the meals to make it taste better,” she explained.

She also says that if you are looking for quality food, you’ll probably need to upgrade your seat. “If you’re in economy, the frozen meals are not the greatest quality and that’s because of the budget – if you want really cheap flights, you’re not going to be able to have the type of food that you get in first-class, which is of a much higher standard.”

That said, the ex-cabin crew member admits it’s difficult to produce decent meals when you don’t have a proper kitchen on-board, which affects all classes of passengers. “The galley in first-class is lovely but the ovens aren’t actually any different to the ones down the back of the plane.”

Crocker says that the best meal to eat on a flight is actually the one you bring yourself. While she and her fellow crew used to “polish off whatever passengers didn’t want” this didn’t leave her feeling great.

“There’s too much fat and salt in the meals and snacks – I would end up feeling absolutely horrendous,” she said. “I had to reprogram myself and start taking my own food on flights. It’s a complete pain to have to do meal prep, but it makes such a difference and I recommend giving it a try as it’s so much better for you.”

Each airline has specific guidelines on what food and how much you can bring into the cabin, so you will need to familiarise yourself with these regulations before flying. Crocker says she usually opts for “packet soups, tea bags, oatcakes and instant porridge pots” – though keep in mind some crew members warn against drinking the hot water on planes.

On long-haul flights, there is a tiny, and normally completely secret room that passengers are banned from entering, but one flight attendant has pulled back the curtain – literally

The next time you’re about to take a snooze on a long-haul flight, you are going to want to remember this secret area exists on the plane – as passengers are totally banned from entering it.

It isn’t just the passengers who need to get some rest while they fly across the world – the cabin crew also need to make sure they get some sleep as they work their seriously long shifts making sure all their customers are well watered, fed, and safely enjoying their trip.

But to the uninitiated, you might wonder where on earth the flight attendants manage to get any rest – as they are seemingly always working hard.

READ MORE: ‘Selfish woman stole my plane seat so I kicked her chair every two minutes’

One air hostess revealed on her TikTok account that there is actually an entire secret area tucked away on long-haul flights for exactly this purpose, lifting the lid on the aviation industry’s best-kept secret.

In a viral TikTok video that has racked up over 1.3 million views, flight attendant Kaytee ( @gh.inthesky ) gives passengers a rare glimpse into the secret areas of the plane where cabin crew can catch some much-needed shut-eye. The clip shows Kaytee climbing into a compact, dimly lit space above the main cabin, entirely out of sight from passengers.

“This is where we sleep on long-haul flights,” she explains, showing off her allocated bunk. The bed is fully equipped with a thin mattress, bedding, and, of course, a safety belt to keep the crew secure in case of turbulence. Despite its confined dimensions, Kaytee describes the pod as surprisingly comfortable. “The turbulence actually rocks you to sleep, it’s like being in a cradle,” she says.

These hidden crew rest compartments are often compared to ‘coffin-like’ spaces due to their incredibly snug design but are a vital feature on long-haul aircraft.

They are typically located either above the main cabin, near the cockpit, or in compartments underneath the passenger seating area. Each bunk is also fitted with a privacy curtain, a pillow, and dim lighting to ensure the crew can get some well-deserved sleep during extended journeys.

Reactions to Kaytee’s tour have been mixed, with some TikTok users fascinated by the behind-the-scenes look at airline operations. Others feel uneasy at the sight of such a compact space.

One commenter wrote: “What in the coffin is this?” while another jokingly added, “I’d need an escape plan before even getting in there!” Despite their claustrophobic appearance, these rest areas are essential for flight attendants who are working long shifts, which can often span 10 hours or more.

All airlines are required to provide designated sleeping quarters for crew members on long-haul flights to ensure they remain alert and refreshed throughout the journey.

For many passengers, the idea of crew members vanishing mid-flight has always been an unsolved mystery. But now, thanks to social media, we have an exclusive look into the secret world behind the curtain (literally and figuratively)!

Do you have a story to tell? Email: [email protected]

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Bank holiday traffic is expected to be heavy this weekend, particularly along the usual hotspots of the M25 around London and all routes to the Southwest of England

Bank holiday traffic is expected to be worst today – and UK airports are anticipated to experience their busiest day for departures so far this year.

Transport analysts predict roads will be congested today with many drivers taking an extra day off before the long weekend and half-term break for most schools in England and Wales. The RAC said an extra 3.4million car trips for leisure would be made today, while the AA said the total number of cars on the road would top 20million.

The M25 around London and all routes to the Southwest of England, such as the M5, are anticipated to be among the busiest roads. However, engineering work is expected on some railways this weekend, including the West Coast Mainline, and so more cars will be on roads as a result.

READ MORE: Tiny UK village 50 miles from capital where London Underground once stopped

Motorists are likely to experience delays on the A30 or A303 westbound or the M5 southbound towards Devon and Cornwall, where journeys could take up to an hour more than usual this weekend.

Those driving this afternoon or on Saturday may dodge some queues, as the majority of motorists surveyed said they expect to hit the road this morning. However, return journeys, especially from coastal areas, are anticipated at various times across Friday May 30, so drivers should allow for extra time for their jaunts.

But the unsettled weather could dampen the traffic over the bank holiday weekend. The Met Office says it will be rainy in places, including across the Northwest of England on Saturday and most of Scotland on Sunday.

Disruption, though, is expected on two major rail routes out of London over the next few days. There will be no trains between London St Pancras and Bedford on Saturday or Sunday, affecting East Midlands Railway and Thameslink services, including services to Luton Airport. A reduced service will operate on Britain’s busiest rail route, the West Coast Mainline, from today until next Friday, affecting Avanti intercity trains from London Euston to Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow. West Midlands Trains and CrossCountry services will also be affected.

More than 3,200 flights will take off at UK airports today, making it the busiest for departures so far in 2025. Over the next four days some 12,185 departing flights are scheduled, according to the aviation analytics firm Cirium, carrying up to 2.2 million passengers.

No disruption at airports has been reported as yet today, though results of a survey published last month identified Gatwick Airport as the worst in the UK for flight delays. Air traffic control (ATC) chaos meant departures from the West Sussex airport were an average of more than 23 minutes behind schedule in 2024, according to analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data.