plane

MANY children may be asking if they can take their squishy toys on flights this summer, however, there are some rules to be aware of.

The toys have become a viral sensation, but they may not be allowed through security gates at certain airports.

Children may not be able to bring their favourite squishy dumpling toys on flights as they may get flagged by security.

This is because the toys, available in a variety of colours, contain gel inside.

UK airports have restrictions on the quantity of liquid, gels, and pastes that can be checked in through hand luggage, often limited to a 100ml volume.

However, a number of airports have developed new CT scanners that allow liquids up to two litres to be accepted through security.

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These airports currently include Belfast International, Belfast City, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick and Heathrow.

A host of major airports, such as Luton, Stansted and Manchester still require the removal of 100ml liquids, gels and pastes from bags, and therefore would be more reluctant with squishy toys.

To see whether these dumplings would be accepted, the Department for Transport told the BBC: “No matter how adorable your squishy dumpling is, airport security rules still apply.”

The department advised passengers to check the liquid allowance at the departure airport, noting that “the safest place is in your hold luggage,” for any squishy toys.

Manchester Airport, which only allows 100ml of liquid, told the BBC that “all but very small squishy toys should be placed in the hold baggage”, with only toys with under 100ml liquid accepted through security.

But larger toys may not have the exact measurement listed on the item, meaning it’s better to bring them in hand luggage so security can estimate the size.

Gatwick Airport, which allows up to two litres in hand luggage, said they normally accept squishy dumpling toys, but the toys will be required to go through security screening.

As with anything that goes through airport security, it is important to remember if the item fails checks, it will not be allowed on the plane.

Turbulence can be a scary thing, but this is what you need to know

A Jet2 pilot has shared what turbulence is really like – and what he wishes passengers understood about it.

Reassuring people that turbulence is “normal”, Josh urged people to stay calm, and it’s nothing to panic about – a key fact he wishes more people knew. He explained in the airline’s Ask a Pilot blog that there are “a few things that’ll really help” nervous flyers stay calm and enjoy their trip, whether they’re heading on a short-haul hop or a longer flight.

But first, what is turbulence? Experts at the Flight Radar 24 explains: “Turbulence is a common yet complex weather phenomenon that affects aviation.

“Broadly speaking, it refers to irregular air movements that cause erratic changes in the altitude and/or attitude of an aircraft. Let’s take a look at the various types of turbulence, their causes, and some notable incidents they have played a part in.”

I’m scared of flying, what can I do?

Answering the question: “I’m a nervous flyer! Can you give me some tips on how to relax and enjoy the flight?” Josh set out practical ways passengers can feel more in control and less anxious in the air.

Josh explained “understanding that turbulence is completely normal” is the first step in dealing with nerves. Planes are designed and rigorously tested to cope with conditions far more severe than anything you’re likely to encounter on a routine journey.

If you are worried, “let the crew know if you’re feeling nervous. The team at Jet2 are incredibly customer-focused, and if you mention it, they’ll do everything they can to reassure you and make the journey as comfortable as possible. This might even include a cockpit visit on the ground before departure, which can really help build confidence.”

The pilot also recommends keeping yourself occupied with distractions such as music, films, podcasts or a good book. This can really help take your mind off the flight and make the time go faster.

He stressed: “Remember, flying is one of the safest forms of transport, with multiple layers of training, technology and procedures all working together to keep you safe. If you have any questions while onboard, just ask a member of our friendly crew who will gladly help you.”

What are the types of turbulence?

Flight Radar explains the types of turbulence that can range from light to extreme. However, it stresses: “Whilst turbulence can feel unsettling, especially to nervous flyers, it is important to emphasise that severe turbulence events are generally quite rare. Pilots carry out an extensive weather brief before a flight which identifies areas of known turbulence en-route, which are avoided if possible.”

Light Turbulence

Light turbulence causes slight and erratic changes in altitude and attitude of the aircraft. Passengers may feel a light strain against their seat belts. There is little or no difficulty in walking for crew members, and unsecured objects may be slightly displaced.

Moderate Turbulence

Moderate turbulence results in changes in altitude and/or attitude that are more intense than light turbulence but the aircraft remains under control at all times. Passengers feel a more definite strain against their seat belts and unsecured objects are dislodged. Walking becomes difficult for crew members.

Severe Turbulence

Severe turbulence causes large, abrupt changes in altitude and/or attitude, with large variations in airspeed. The aircraft may be momentarily out of control. Passengers are forced violently against their seat belts, and unsecured objects can become airborne. Walking is impossible. Severe turbulence is generally quite rare.

Extreme Turbulence

Extreme turbulence results in the aircraft being tossed about violently, making it practically impossible to control. This category of turbulence may cause structural damage to the aircraft. Severe injuries to passengers and crew are possible if they are not securely fastened. Extreme turbulence is, as named, extremely rare.

MoneySavingExpert, which was founded by Martin Lewis, shared a tip for plane passengers

Some customers could be owed back hundreds after purchasing plane tickets, according to MoneySavingExpert (MSE). The consumer website, founded by journalist and TV personality Martin Lewis, regularly shares advice to help Brits.

In advice for travellers, the money experts pointed out that passengers who book non-refundable plane tickets but don’t end up using them can still request a refund for some of their money. While the refund won’t cover the entire cost of the tickets, they can get the Air Passenger Duty refunded.

In a Facebook post, MSE said: “Air Passenger Duty is a tax only paid by the airline to HMRC if you fly. If you don’t fly, whether you cancelled a non-refundable ticket or you missed your flight, you can request a refund from £8 to £253 per person.” The post also included a real-life success story from MSE Clare.

Clare revealed that her in-laws received a refund of £92 each after realising they needed to change their return flight home after visiting the UK from Australia. The family members had assumed they wouldn’t get any money back from their non-refundable tickets after their plans changed, but a “quick email” to their airline confirmed the good news. Clare said it was “a small consolation, but better than nothing.”

In the comments under the post, MSE added: “There’s no deadline for how far back you can claim – though some airlines impose their own (and a few charge an admin fee).” More information is available on the MSE website.

It said: “When you book a flight departing the UK, your ticket price will include various fees, such as airport tax. However, this isn’t collected by HM Revenue and Customs from the airline until after you actually fly. If you don’t fly – even by choice – you shouldn’t have to pay the tax.”

If you’re looking to make a claim, airlines publish information for passengers explaining exactly how to get it. Skyscanner explains: “The procedures for claiming an airport tax refund vary from airline to airline.

“Some will refund it automatically, whereas others require you to fill out a form. It’s worth noting that some carriers will charge an admin fee for the refund application, and with budget airlines, that fee can often surmount the amount you’ll get back.

“Each airline should publish details of how to claim back APD tax on its own website. If you cannot find this, call the airline and request details.”

Skyscanner added: “Some airlines have commercial agreements with various airports and may not always pay airport taxes. If you didn’t initially pay them, you wouldn’t be eligible for a refund.”

A woman has sparked a heated debate after claiming a fellow passenger took over part of her plane footwell with his backpack before making her feel like she was the one being rude

Long-haul flights can test even the most patient travellers, but one woman was fuming after claiming a fellow passenger had taken over part of her footwell before acting as though she was the one in the wrong. Sharing her frustration online, the passenger explained she had deliberately booked a window seat in an exit row because it offered extra legroom.

While the seat comes with a few downsides, including having no entertainment screen within easy reach and slightly narrower armrests, she said the extra space usually makes it worthwhile. However, her latest journey didn’t quite go to plan. She claimed the man sitting in the row in front placed his large backpack in the empty space where a window seat would normally be.

Because there is no seat directly in front of her in the exit row, she said the bag ended up taking over part of the legroom she specifically paid for.

To make matters worse, she alleged the passenger kept looking back at her as though she was being rude whenever her legs came close to his belongings.

Alongside a photo of the seating arrangement, she pointed out her own backpack was stored correctly underneath the seat in front of her, while his had been left in the open space beside him.

She wrote: “Not a huge deal… just curious. Other than this guy is making me feel like I’m being an a***hole.

“I’m in the exit row 21 window seat where there is no window seat in the exit row in front of you. I choose this seat at times even though, in exchange for the additional leg room, I’m giving up a screen and have limited seat width due to the arm rests.

“This guy plops his large backpack down directly to the left of him, where the ’20A seat’ would be if there were one. And is constantly looking back at me like I’m being rude, for my legs being near his bag.

“Mine is under the seat directly in front of me. As it should be. I’m tired. I’m annoyed. And to be honest, I just feel like complaining, but not enough to actually say something since it’s only an hour flight. But am I wrong to be this bothered by it?”

The post quickly attracted dozens of comments, with many siding with the woman and arguing the bag should have been kept out of the shared space.

One person said: “Former flight attendant here! This is a safety hazard – the reason bags go under seats is so they don’t go flying.

“He’s directly putting you in danger in case of turbulence. If he won’t move it I’d call the flight attendant over.”

Another user added: “Regardless of etiquette, his bag shouldn’t be there at any time. That’s an emergency exit. I doubt his priority will be finding a place to move his bag in a water exit – it’ll just be the reason everyone rear of the lav drowns.”

Seat swap drama

It comes after a man refused to give up his business class plane seat so a child could sit next to their parent.

He explained how he had specifically booked his seat in advance to ensure he was as comfortable as possible during the flight.

But after a flight attendant noticed a child sitting alone in economy while their parent was in business class, they reportedly made it their mission to reunite the pair.

TRAVELLERS are being warned about taking a popular everyday item on board flights.

Earlier this week, a Swiss International Air Lines flight was diverted to Bangor in Maine, America, due to smoke in the cabin.

The smoke came from a damaged headphone charging case, which had fallen between the seats and become stuck, causing it to overheat.

The plane had come from Zurich in Switzerland and was heading for JFK Airport in New York.

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) incidents involving lithium batteries – which are found in headphone charging cases, as well as power banks – are on the rise.

Any items with lithium batteries have to go in hand luggage.

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These include:

• Power banks
• Vapes
• Bluetooth speakers
• Electric fans
• Fitness and smartwatches
• Digital cameras
• Wireless headphones & charging cases
• Tablets
• E-readers
• Laptops

The CAA has warned that if any of these cause an issue during a flight, such as overheating or starting to smoke, you should notify a member of the cabin crew as quickly as possible.

If these items aren’t packed correctly, such as in your hold luggage and not your hand luggage, there could be flight delays or cancellations as a result.

Back in May, an easyJet flight had to divert when a passenger informed crew during the flight that the portable charger was in the hold of the aircraft.

The flight was then forced to land in Rome, Italy, instead of reaching its destination, London Luton.

The CAA previously commented: “Passenger awareness remains low – over a third (36 per cent) of travellers are unaware of the dangers of packing batteries in checked baggage, even though 92 per cent fly with a mobile phone, 55 per cent with a laptop and 49 per cent with a power bank – suggesting hundreds of batteries could be incorrectly packed on a typical flight.”

According to the CAA, there are around two lithium battery incidents every week – and often, these incidents cause delays as well as diversions.

Footage shows firefighters dousing the wreckage of a crashed tourist aircraft in southern Peru. Police said the plane was carrying 13 people when it went down while flying over the ancient archeological site of Nazca Lines.

Anyone who’s jetting off this summer will want to know about a fairly new safety rule that you must follow when you’re on board.

Going on holiday is always an exciting time, but there’s a lot of reasons that they can be stressful too. For many people, the flight itself is a source of anxiety, while others aren’t keen on the packing, the security process or the bag regulations.

I love a trip abroad, and although I can sometimes get nervous during takeoff and landing – as I’m sure many people do – I try to push it aside because I know there’s a holiday waiting for me at the other end.

If I can afford it, I’ll go on two or three holidays a year, so I like to think I’m pretty savvy when it comes to knowing what to pack, how big your bag can be, and just having a general know-how about the process. But on my most recent holiday, I was shocked to hear a safety announcement onboard that I’d literally never heard before, and it really threw a spanner in the works.

Picture the scene – it’s 5.30am, I’ve had three hours of sleep, two coffees down in Manchester Airport and I’m about to board my flight to Bilbao. Because I’ve desperately been trying to keep myself awake, I’ve been scrolling endlessly, so by the time I’m sat in my seat, my phone battery is looking a little unhealthy.

Luckily I’ve got a portable charger in my bag, ready to give my phone a much-needed boost. It’s been a rule for a while now that you can’t pack these in your checked luggage due to the potential danger from lithium ion batteries, but it’s always handier to have them in your hand luggage anyway.

But as the safety announcements kicked off, I was very surprised to hear that on this easyJet flight, you couldn’t use portable chargers at all.

Why can’t you use portable chargers on flights?

This was the first I’d heard of power banks being completely banned from use onboard flights. However, it’s clear to see in the ‘dangerous goods’ section of the easyJet website, which says they can’t be used to charge other devices.

They also must be ‘individually protected’ like placed in original retail packaging or a plastic bag, and customers are only allowed a maximum of two each.

Explaining why the rules are so strict, Jonathan Nicholson from the Civil Aviation Authority told BBC News that compared to the likes of digital cameras and laptops, “power banks have a much bigger battery, much stronger and get a lot hotter”.

“These things, when they catch fire, they go – they really go – they are big, big issues and big fires,” he added.

This makes total sense, and it obviously explains why most airlines have banned portable chargers in hold luggage – it was only a matter of time before they were banned from being used on planes too.

It’s worth noting that they are not outright prohibited – you just can’t use them, on easyJet flights anyway. So it’s definitely worth making sure you’re fully charged before you board, and don’t make the same mistake I did.

Which airlines have banned power banks?

As well as easyJet, several other airlines have started to enforce strict rules surrounding power banks. British Airways recently tightened its regulations – they must display the capacity rating information, they can’t exceed exceed 100Wh and they must be stored either in the seat pocket or in a bag placed under the seat in front.

Emirates has outright banned the use of power banks on all flights, nor can you plug the power bank into the seat’s power supply to charge it.

Most other airlines, such as Ryanair, Jet2 and TUI, do allow you to use them on board – just not during taxi, takeoff and landing, and restrictions can apply on the wattage. And you’re definitely not allowed to pack them in your hold luggage under any circumstances.

It’s recommended to check with the airline you’re flying with if you’re not sure, but always better safe than sorry.

If you’re looking to bring a squishy toy on a flight this summer, there are some travel rules you may not be aware of.

The viral toys are extremely popular with young children, but may not be allowed through security at certain airports.

With the summer break fully underway, many Brits will soon be heading overseas on holiday.

For families packing children’s toys to bring on the flight, it’s important to check with airport security rules as certain toys may not be allowed past the gates.

One such product is the viral squishy dumplings, the latest toy craze to take over the internet.

Housed in plastic “basket style” pots, the trending toys come in a variety of bright colours, including rarer glitter and galaxy dumplings.

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However, if you or your child are looking to bring the toys with you abroad this summer, there’s a possibility the squishies may be flagged at security.

This is because some of the squeezy dumplings are filled with gel.

UK airports have restrictions on the limit of liquids, gels and pastes you can bring through security, which can range from 100ml up to two litres.

To check rules surrounding squeezy dumplings, the BBC reached out to the Department for Transport and major UK airports to see what guidelines they had in place.

The DfT is one of the regulatory bodies that consults on airport security restrictions.

When it comes to bringing squishy toys on planes, the DfT said: “No matter how adorable your squishy dumpling is, airport security rules still apply.”

This means that depending on the airport you are flying from, the limits that airport sets out surrounding liquids, gels and pastes will apply to your squishy toy.

It’s advised to check directly with the airport you are flying from to understand these limits.

However, the department did add that for any travellers in doubt as to where to pack their squeezy dumplings “the safest place is in your hold luggage”.

Manchester Airport has advised that “all but very small squishy toys should be placed in hold baggage”.

As smaller squishies contain less than 100ml of liquid they should be fine to bring through.

But larger toys may not have the exact measurement listed on the item, meaning it’s better to bring them in hand luggage so security can estimate the size.

Both Birmingham Airport and London Gatwick Airport said that the squeezy toys are required to go through security screening, whichever bag the item is in.

Like anything going through security, the airports confirmed that if the item fails security checks, it would not be allowed on the plane.

As the toys contain gel, Belfast City Airport has confirmed that the items are subject to the airport’s security rules surrounding liquids, gels and pastes.

Belfast City is one of a small number of airports in the UK that has introduced new security checks and limits on the amount of liquid able to bring through security.

Passengers can now bring up to two litres in hand luggage through this airport, so squishy dumplings are likely to be fine.

Both Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports have said that its best to follow guidelines set out by the DfT.

A man was disgruntled when the rest of his flight were obeying an unspoken rule about flights in the early morning, except for the person in the window seat on his row

Early morning flights when it’s still dark outside can be nerve-wracking as you’re unable to see a thing. But once you’ve calmed those anxieties, you can make the most of the darkness in the cabin and get some much-needed sleep before you arrive at your travel destination.

However, passengers who haven’t booked a window seat or don’t have a sleep mask for the flight might just be out of luck. That’s because their seatmates might have other ideas and probably don’t fancy sleeping then. Now one traveller who was prepared to snooze on a flight when they booked an aisle seat was annoyed when someone got in the way.

TikTok user @traveltaps asked: “The negative of having an aisle seat is that I don’t control the window shades… and that sun is bright this morning! Ugh. Has this happened to you?”

Over the top of the video, which showed the plane cabin in darkness, they wrote: “When the entire plane created a calm, dark, sleepy atmosphere for this early morning flight…”

And then they showed their row off where they wrote: “Except my row.” The passenger in the window seat wasn’t doing anything like reading, either, where they needed light. They were just ignoring the vibe of the rest of the plane.

Many people in the comments said they should’ve taken a sleep mask to avoid this if they wanted to get some rest and claimed they should “mind their own business”.

Someone shared: “If it’s the morning, the shade is up. Travel at night if you want a sleepy flight. It’s not every day I’m 30 thousand feet in the air, so I’m looking out the window.”

A second penned: “I don’t get the window seat so I can look at a window shade for five hours.”

However, one person wrote: “People in the comments are annoyed, but you’re right. If you fly regularly, you know there’s an unspoken rule that on an early morning flight, windows should be down when the cabin lights are dimmed before breakfast or beverage service.

“If you don’t fly regularly, maybe look around and ask yourself why you’re the only one with the window open.”

Another agreed: “No this is so rude to me. As someone who flies often and on long hauls. Read the room. If no one else is smoking, then don’t pull a cig out. If everyone is taking their shoes off at the door, then take yours off too! Don’t be rude.”

What would you do in this situation? Let us know in the comments…

Victoria Vigors’ holiday of a lifetime was left in tatters at the airport

A family’s dream holiday costing £6,500 was left in tatters after they were turned away at the boarding gate. Victoria Vigors, 41, arrived at Gatwick Airport ready for their all-inclusive two-week break to Hurghada, Egypt.

Victoria, who was with children Riley, 15, and Roxie, nine, checked in online for their easyJet flight. But problems emerged when staff scanned their boarding passes at the gate and noticed Roxie’s passport didn’t meet Egypt’s entry requirements for remaining validity.

“My stomach dropped, and I felt like I’d been kicked in the stomach,” Victoria, from Kent, told creatorzine.com.

“The kids crumpled and I burst into tears. I begged the staff but there was nothing they could do. We had to be escorted back to get our luggage off the flight. It was so embarrassing.

“The kids were devastated, Roxie kept saying it was her fault and we were so disappointed. It was a really bad day.”

Victoria had saved up for two years for the trip, which she described as the “holiday of a lifetime”. The 41-year-old said it would have been their first two-week trip abroad together, and their first time staying at an all-inclusive resort.

Roxie’s passport expires on January 4, 2027. However, Victoria said she hadn’t realised that could still prevent travel. UK government foreign travel advice states British passport holders must have at least six months’ validity remaining from the date they arrive in Egypt.

Because Roxie’s passport did not meet that threshold, Victoria said the airline refused to let them board. She said she hadn’t known the rules and believed everything was in order.

“I wasn’t aware of the rules. I was given her passport the day before we flew by her dad. In my head, it was six months anyway, so I didn’t think there’d be an issue. For people like me who don’t always travel and it’s the first time with my children, I wasn’t to know.

“I would have thought when I put her passport details in to check in that would tell me it wasn’t valid. That would be a simple system to install so save this agony and heartbreak. It’s crazy.”

Victoria said the family is now trying to secure an emergency passport in the hope they can still get away for at least the final days of the trip, after being told they can’t get a refund.

“I’d been saving up for two years. We were incredibly excited as we’d never had a two-week holiday abroad together or been to a resort like this. It was going to be the holiday of a lifetime.”

Picking the right plane seat can make all the difference to your journey – and one flight attendant says there’s a simple strategy that could leave you with a much more comfortable flight

Whether it’s a weekend break or a long-haul holiday, most travellers spend at least a little time trying to pick the best seat on the plane that they can find. Now, one flight attendant has shared the plane seats she always recommends booking in economy – along with the ones she avoids at all costs if you want a more relaxing flight.

Air hostess Sandra Jennie Kwon, who posts as @jeenie.weenie on TikTok, explained how she worked out her ideal seat after years of working onboard aircraft. In the video, she says: “The first elimination should be a no-brainer – the middle seats suck.

The back row of every section doesn’t recline. I’m not a tall person, so I don’t need the emergency exit rows. There’s also nowhere to store your personal belongings there. They also have those flimsy tray tables and seats, so let’s scrap them.”

The travel expert then revealed why she prefers sitting towards the back of the plane, explaining that airlines typically fill seats from the front first to help with weight distribution.

Because of this, she believes passengers at the back are more likely to end up with an empty seat next to them.

“For those odds, I prefer the back,” she said. “Seats near a toilet really stink, so I recommend a five-row buffer just to stay in the safe zone.”

She also ruled out window seats for one simple reason.

“I hate asking people to move so I can use the toilet,” she explained. “So I eliminate all the window seats.”

However, she admitted there’s one advantage to sitting closer to the front.

“Meals are typically served from front to back, so you have a higher chance of getting your first meal choice.”

After weighing up the pros and cons, Sandra revealed her ideal economy seats are 49 C, D, F or G.

Her advice quickly sparked debate online.

One person joked: “No! Now everyone will rush to these seats and they’ll become more expensive than business class.”

Another wrote: “I was listening right up until you scrapped the window seat.”

A third added: “The amount of people that’ll be fighting for seats 49 C/D/F/G after watching this… omg.”

While someone else commented: “Me taking notes even though I probably won’t be on a plane for another year.”

IT was seen as total madness by many and a charade by others.

But pop duo Wham!’s 1985 trip to China for two special concerts in the newly opened communist state turned out to be a stroke of genius.

The gruelling ten-day trip saw Wham! become the first Western band to perform in Communist China, and helped fast-track school pals George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, now 63, to superstardom.

During their illustrious time together they sold more than 25 million records worldwide and clocked up five UK No1 singles including Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, I’m Your Man and Last Christmas.

Crucially the trip helped the duo crack America and, armed with their catalogue of hits and flanked by a camera crew, it was filmed for what would have been a gritty documentary about the band leading a Western revolution in the country.

Speaking in the documentary, George, who died on Christmas Day 2016, recalls: “It was historic. There were only a few things that you can do as a pop band that haven’t been done before.

“It was a great privilege being the first people to play real Western pop music to those people.

“I wouldn’t have missed it for anything. It’s just that it was a pretty hard couple of weeks.”

Wham!’s manager, Simon Napier-Bell, initially believed that getting renowned British director Lindsay Anderson on board to make the film was a massive coup which would add credibility.

But, it quickly became apparent they had completely different visions for the documentary.

George and Andrew just wanted to make a glossy concert film, while Lindsay, who openly criticised the group, was focused on a hard-hitting documentary about the westernization and opening up of Communist China.

And due to these creative differences the documentary was never shown and the tapes were archived.

Now, for the first time, the incredible footage has been unearthed and the historic trip is told in George and Andrew’s own words in the 90-minute film, Wham! 10 Days In China.

While often unpredictable, the late singer was by all accounts far better at playing the media game than his bandmate.

At a VIP screening at Soho House in London, Andrew told The Sun: “Frankly, I behaved like a bit of a t**t, honestly.

“We were relatively young, but we had also had a good two or three years worth of experience with the press.

“We knew the game. We knew what was at stake. We knew how to behave and how not to — but I just chose not to.”

The band had formed just four years earlier, releasing their debut single Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do) in June 1982.

Andrew knew going to China was a “risky” move for the famous duo, who had experienced phenomenal success but were yet to reach the international stardom they eventually went on to achieve.

He adds in the film: “Wham! In China . . .  I was cynical. Untried. Untested. Risky.

“I didn’t really like it. Landing in China, I felt we were there on false pretences. It was a circus. Wham! in China was more than just the shows.

“A show had to be made of Wham! in China and that meant official events, interacting with our hosts. It was just part and parcel of being there.

“Being dragged around to contrived scenes was not something either of us was particularly comfortable with.”

However they took the risk, determined to break the US market as quickly as possible.

Andrew continued: “To break the States was a huge ambition for any act — and George’s ambition overrode everything.

“However, he had suffered with his voice breaking down.

“He had undiagnosed polyps on his vocal cords at that point and so he didn’t want to spend months touring small venues. We wanted to fast-track Wham! straight to the top. Something was going to have to be done.”

Run like a royal tour, as well as the two concerts in Beijing and Guangzhou, the trip included a number of photo opportunities and government-organised events.

The whole tour was masterminded by Napier-Bell, who saw the opening of China as a way to make history and fast-track the boys to the top.

In return, China got foreign investment.

Alongside the more obvious choices, such as a trip to the Great Wall of China, Wham! were guests of honour at a State Dinner and a garden party at the Ambassador’s house inside the British Embassy.

Publicly, the pair put on a great show, making small talk and mingling with dignitaries.

But amusing new footage reveals the stars oscillated from finding the whole thing hilarious to being sick to death of being wheeled out to all and sundry.

During the dinner, they were presented with an intricate tapestry, prompting George to whisper to the camera like a naughty schoolboy: “It’s a bath mat. We will cut it down the middle. My mum can have one half and Andrew’s mum can have the other half.”

The long, drawn-out trip to the Ambassador’s house almost pushed them too far.

Andrew recalls: “Our schedule was such that we were being pulled in a variety of different directions.

“The Ambassador’s residence was a bit of 1930s Blighty transported into Peking. They seemed to exist in this colonial microcosm. It’s quite strange.

“There was nowhere to hide in there. I thought I would be polite and play the game, but Yog [George’s nickname] didn’t feel the same way. He thought it was an utter charade.”

George was so fed up with parts of the trip that he upped sticks and left Andrew in the middle of a cassette signing with fans.

His bemused bandmate was forced to make up excuses that George was feeling sick and needed a lie-down to cover up the fact the star had simply had enough.

In historic footage of the moment, seen for the first time, a baffled Andrew says: “He’s left me in the lurch before, but once bitten, twice aware — or twice as aware.”

Grilled as to how he would describe his partnership with George, he added: “Stormy, but mostly on the fair side. He’s a nice enough chap.”

While the band split in 1986, the pair went way back before fame, having known each other since 1973, after meeting on their first day at Bushey Meads School, Herts.

Asked if he found watching footage of his late friend difficult, Andrew added to The Sun: “Sometimes it catches me out.

“The moments that really appeal to me are scenes like the one where we are bickering in the back of the car — just two youngsters, two friends.

“They are the ones where you can see the essence of real friendship. They are the things I miss, as we are unable to share them now.

“Anyone who had his company and his friendship for an extended period of time will know he was a deeply caring chap, and we all miss him. To have lost the best friend I have ever had is difficult, as they are irreplaceable. A childhood friend who you have spent all those years with.”

The trip wasn’t without drama.

During an internal flight, one of the band’s trumpet players suffered a breakdown — stabbing himself in the stomach and forcing his way into the cockpit.

For the first time, backing singer Shirlie Kemp — who went on to become one half of Pepsi & Shirlie along with Helen DeMacque — speaks about how she was left terrified and covered in her bandmate’s blood.

Shirlie said: “It was one of the most scary experiences of my life.”

Despite the mile-high terror, Wham!’s trip was hailed a success, both in terms of winning over the Chinese with their music and cracking America.

Chatting to The Sun, Andrew says he believes his late pal would be most proud of the fact the gigs helped inspire a generation of children in China to get into music, many of whom had never even danced in public before attending the Wham! gig.

Andrew told us: “I think George would feel very much the same way as I, in that the legacy that exists for the Chinese people who were at the show is the most meaningful and substantial of all the legacies.

“It achieved what it was supposed to. The trip was designed to raise our profile in the US, as we didn’t want to do a long tour. Yog didn’t like being away from home for extended periods.

“He would find the fact that there are Chinese artists whose careers may exist only because they saw Wham! incredible.”

• Wham! 10 Days In China will be in cinemas from July 28 and will then air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer in August.

A plane passenger thought paying extra would guarantee a stress-free flight – but moments after taking his seat, another traveller made a request that quickly turned the journey awkward

For many travellers, paying extra to choose a seat is worth every penny, especially if it means avoiding the dreaded middle seat or securing a window view for a long-haul flight. That’s exactly what one passenger thought he was doing when he paid an extra £150 to reserve a window seat on his flight to Brazil. But shortly after boarding, another traveller approached him with a request that left him in an awkward position.

Sharing his story on Reddit, he explained: “This stranger who was seated on the middle plane seats across from me with his child asked me if I could give up my window seat for his kid. I said, ‘Sorry, but no. I paid an extra 200 dollars for this seat’.” The man assumed that would be the end of the conversation, but says the father responded by glaring at him instead of accepting his answer. He added: “In my head I said, ‘Okay f*** you too!’ and went back listening to my music while looking out the window.”

However, just a few minutes later, the situation escalated when a flight attendant came over to speak to him.

He continued: “Not even five minutes later a flight attendant taps me on the shoulder asking me if I could give up my seat for his kid.

“I pulled out my ticket and the receipt I got when I paid extra for the window seat and told her, ‘No, I paid extra for window seat’.

“She said, ‘Okay, sorry to bother you sir’. I saw her walk back to him and say, ‘no’ for me.”

The passenger claims the father shot him another angry look, seemingly expecting the airline staff to persuade him to move.

Wanting to know whether he’d handled the situation correctly, he turned to Reddit to ask if he was in the wrong for refusing to swap.

Most users backed his decision, arguing that paying extra for a specific seat meant he was under no obligation to give it up.

One person said: “I used to fly for work every few weeks. It was pretty common for this to happen.

“I did the exact same thing. If I paid extra for a seat, I said no. If I was just changing seats so family could sit next to each other, and they were polite, I usually switched.”

They added: “Didn’t matter to me. Just the politeness. I was going to read most of the time anyway. If they were rude I just said no and stuck my head in a book.”

TENNESSEE Thresher has hit back at a mum-shamer who demanded she ‘take action’ after her daughter was ‘screaming’ on a flight.

The influencer, 25, shares a 16-month-old daughter with YouTube star Danny Aarons.

And after travelling abroad last week, Tenessee received a message from a fellow passenger on the same flight about her daughter’s behaviour.

The passenger wrote: “Hi, I was on your flight today in seat 20c the man in a psg top and foyer brown 6ft male. I just wanted to say ur child disturbed my sleep a lot and wanted to bring it to your attention. Hopefully the appropriate actions take place to prevent this next time.” [sic]

In another message days later, the passenger dubbed Tennessee and Aaron’s daughter “completely out of order” and said they were expecting an apology video from both the couple and their toddler.

They ended the message by telling Tennessee they would be unfollowing her on Instagram.

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Sharing the messages, which she didn’t reply to, to her Instagram Stories, Tennessee publicly hit back.

“The world is full of freaks, I wish she screamed a bit louder for you,” she wrote over the screenshot.

Tennessee is best known for being a model and influencer, boasting 1.2 million followers on Instagram.

While Danny is a YouTuber and Twitch streamer.

The couple started dating after appearing on Locked In – the YouTube version of Big Brother – in 2023.

The couple revealed their engagement in January last year, just months after announcing their pregnancy.

Social media star Danny got down on one knee in the Maldives during an incredibly romantic meal on the beach.

They have kept family life since welcoming their little girl fairly private and don’t show her face online.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Musicians and a DJ are among the dead in a plane crash in the Bahamas that killed 10, the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union said Saturday.

The crash Friday prompted the government to temporarily ground Flamingo Air flights. It happened in North Andros, in waters just west of Nassau, the archipelago’s capital.

“Among the dearly departed are some of the talented and vibrant members of our entertainment community, including members of The Pond Band and a DJ,” the union said in a statement on X.

Their “passion, dedication, and artistry touched so many lives and helped to enrich the cultural fabric of The Bahamas,” the union added.

The plane had departed Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau and was headed to San Andros when it crashed, according to the Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority.

The Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation said in a statement that the suspension of Flamingo Air’s air operator certificate was a precautionary safety measure as officials investigate the cause of the crash. The ministry said the suspension is a result of two safety incidents that happened Friday.

During a news conference, Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the first incident Friday involved another Flamingo Air plane. She said it was en route to Mayaguana when the pilot reported a concern and turned back to Nassau. After the plane landed and the passengers deboarded, the plane caught fire, she said. That incident also is under investigation.

A plane passenger has sparked outrage after refusing to move from another traveller’s assigned seat – before hitting them with a blunt five-word response that left people stunned

A plane passenger has been slammed for stealing a stranger’s seat and – before defending her actions with a blunt five-word response. The traveller had specifically booked a window seat for the flight, but was stunned to find another passenger already sitting in it when they boarded.

Taking to Reddit, the passenger explained how they politely pointed out the mistake, only to be wrongly told they had the aisle seat instead. They said: “I booked a window seat (27A) on my flight. When I got there, two women were already sitting in my row. I politely told them I had 27A, and one of them goes, ‘No, this is 27C, the window seat. 27A is the aisle’.”

Unsure who was correct, the passenger briefly sat in the aisle seat before asking a flight attendant to confirm the seating plan.

They added: “I was a bit confused, so I double-checked after sitting down briefly in the aisle seat and asked a flight attendant. She confirmed that 27A was, in fact, the window seat.”

After returning to the row and politely explaining the mix-up, the passenger was met with an unexpected response.

They said: “Her response was, ‘For f***’s sake, what are you so desperate to sit by the window for?’

“I told her calmly that I’d paid for that seat.”

Rather than apologising or moving, the woman hit back with a five-word defence.

“She snaps back, ‘We all paid for it,’ and still refuses to move,” the passenger said.

Fortunately, the flight attendant had witnessed the exchange and quickly stepped in.

They recalled: “The flight attendant is right there witnessing everything and says, ‘It’s her seat. If she wants to sit there, she will’.

“Only then did the woman finally move, but the attitude the whole time was unbelievable. No apology, no basic respect – just pure entitlement.”

Frustrated by the encounter, the passenger added: “Honestly, I don’t get how people can act like that over something so straightforward. If it’s not your seat, just move. It’s not that deep.”

Commenting on the post, one user said: “I remember when they said people had to sit in their assigned seat so they could be identified in an accident.”

Another user added: “My preference is short flight give me window, long flight give me aisle. I have a small bladder. But if that all goes out the window if someone is in the seat I paid for.

“Ask to switch and maybe I’ll be willing to sit in my seat and refuse to move or expect me to switch? Nah I’m standing on business. Sit in the seat you paid for.”

A third user said: “I like the aisle and window but I would have definitely made her move with that disposition!”

One more user added: “It’s rude and it is not allowed. You sit in the correct seat period. They just wanted to take your seat. That’s where the flight attendants come in and say move it.”

Travellers must take extra when packing their suitcases as certain items are not allowed in hold luggage, especially this device would could cause more disruption than usual

Packing for a holiday can be both exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. Most airlines enforce strict restrictions on weight and size, which can prove incredibly stressful for travellers.

Certain items have long been forbidden during air travel, but what about storing them in your suitcase? According to recent findings, vapes and powerbanks rank among the greatest fire hazards on aircraft. As a result, many holidaymakers remain unsure about the correct procedures when flying with these devices.

To shed some light on the matter, Markus Lindblad, Head of Legal & External Affairs for Northerner, has set out the key guidelines for storing your vape.

He warned that despite safety notices, many travellers are still mistakenly packing vape devices in their hold luggage, when airlines actually require these to be switched off and kept solely in cabin baggage.

Why lithium batteries and vapes are banned in checked luggage

This comes down to the considerable fire risk posed by lithium batteries. In the past, airlines have been forced to divert flights after a lithium battery caught fire, making it absolutely vital to thoroughly check your bags.

If you’re caught vaping on board, this can set off smoke alarms and alert cabin crew. Depending on the airline and the circumstances involved, failing to cooperate with staff or disregarding safety instructions could land you with a hefty fine.

This could also result in police getting involved once the aircraft touches down, or even a lifetime ban from travelling with that carrier. But if you spot another traveller vaping mid-flight, it’s recommended to quietly alert a member of the cabin crew.

Getting through an entire journey without nicotine can prove challenging for some, but Markus recommends smokers bring patches on board to tide them over until they reach their destination.

They can be stored in both hand luggage and hold baggage, are subtle to apply and don’t produce vapour, making them appropriate for use while airborne.

As with any product, travellers should always verify the regulations of their airline and destination country before departure, as requirements can differ.

France, for instance, has outlawed nicotine pouches. Taking a brief moment to familiarise yourself with the airline’s regulations and pack appropriately can help prevent hold-ups, seized items or fines, ensuring your trip begins smoothly.

Airline vape policies and the UK disposable vape ban

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, all vapes and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin luggage and never in hold baggage.

This is compulsory to avoid lithium battery fires. Furthermore, all e-liquids must adhere to the standard 100ml liquid restriction in a transparent resealable bag.

You should also drain your refillable tanks prior to flying, as changes in cabin pressure often cause e-liquid to seep out through the airflow openings. For more comprehensive policies on precise battery quantities, it’s worth checking your specific airline’s guidelines via British Airways, easyJet, or Ryanair.

It is also worth noting that selling single-use disposable vapes is completely prohibited in the UK. While you are still permitted to travel with ones you already own, purchasing them at UK airports is not allowed.

A man claims an airline tried to pressure him into giving up his business class seat so a parent could sit with their child – but he refused to play along and the youngster ended up sitting alone

A man has sparked a debate after refusing to give up his business class plane seat so a child could sit next to their parent. He explained how he had specifically booked his seat in advance to ensure he was as comfortable as possible during the flight.

But after a flight attendant noticed a child sitting alone in economy while their parent was in business class, they reportedly made it their mission to reunite the pair. Taking to Reddit, he said: “I was asked to move from a row of two so a parent and child could sit together, and I don’t feel guilty for declining, no matter how much the flight attendant and the parent tried to guilt me.

“I wasn’t going to take a downgrade to economy. But even if I was asked to change to a seat in the same class, I would refuse. When I have to fly, I choose the seat that I want. Or, in rare cases when there are no assigned seats, I choose the best seat that’s available.”

He argued that parents should pay the extra cost to ensure they are seated with their children, rather than relying on strangers to swap seats at the last minute.

He added: “I’m not moving just because someone else is a parent. If someone is travelling with a small child, they need to plan better.”

The man also criticised the airline’s handling of the situation, claiming staff tried to pressure him into giving up his seat without offering any compensation.

He said: “While I did complain to the airline about 1) being asked to downgrade to economy without a refund or any compensation – I still wouldn’t have moved, but being told I should help without getting a refund was upsetting – and 2) being guilted by the flight attendants because I refused, I don’t expect a response.

“In Canada, the airline is legally required to give a refund if you are downgraded, so being told I wouldn’t be compensated at all if I changed seats was wrong.

“I don’t know what ended up happening, but the seat next to me was empty during the flight and I got to sit alone.

“Just because I’m not a parent doesn’t mean I should have to move. I don’t care if not moving makes me a bad person.”

Commenting on the post, one user said: “I’m surprised you weren’t offered booze by the flight attendant.”

Another added: “Why didn’t they ask the person next to the child to upgrade so the parent could move to economy instead?”

A third wrote: “So the parent booked business class for themselves and economy for the child, hoping they could guilt someone into upgrading the child for free at their own expense. You did the right thing.”

July 10 (UPI) — A man was nearly sucked out the window of a plane on a Ryanair flight from Greece to Germany on Friday, passengers said.

Not long after takeoff from Thessaloniki, in northern Greece, on Flight FR1879 operated by subsidiary Malta Air, a piece of an engine came off and hit a passenger window, shattering it. A 61-year-old Serbian man was lifted out of his seat and hung headfirst out of the window, and was kept from flying out by his wife, who held his legs, The Guardian reported.

Oxygen masks were deployed on the Boeing 737-800 as a precaution.

Data from FlightRadar24 shows the flight was airborne for just over an hour and reached 16,000 feet before descending back to Thessaloniki airport.

FlightRadar24 posted on Instagram that the passenger hit his head.

“According to reports, the passenger seated next to the affected window was pulled towards it and hit their head. Oxygen masks deployed and passengers seated in the row were relocated.

“The crew descended below 10,000 feet, burned off fuel and safely landed back in Thessaloniki around 75 minutes after departure,” the post said.

Euro News reported that authorities said there was no crack or breach in the aircraft’s fuselage, despite initial concerns about the damage.

Four passengers went to a hospital as a precaution, and one was kept for observation and tests.

Ryanair sent the rest of the passengers on to Germany with a replacement plane.

The airline sent a statement to media Friday.

“A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen [Germany] on Friday morning (July 10) returned to Thessaloniki shortly after take-off when a passenger window dislodged inflight. The aircraft landed normally, and passengers returned to the terminal. One passenger requested and received medical assistance on the ground in Thessaloniki. In order to minimize any delay, a replacement aircraft was arranged to bring passengers to Memmingen which departed Thessaloniki at 9:53 local this morning,” the statement said.

A cabin crew instructor has revealed where he would choose to sit on the plane

A cabin crew member has shared what he claims is the best seat on the plane. The regular flyer dished out advice for passengers looking to make the most of their journey. Wizz Air Cabin Crew Instructor Gabriel Randone shared his favourite seat. He also revealed the best seat for ‘free perks’ – if you’re lucky enough to get it.

Talking to the Mirror, Gabriel shared his preferred seat as a passenger. He said: “I absolutely love the front. Row one gives you extra legroom. There are some perks to staying there as well.

“For example, you would be the first one to disembark. Sometimes you’ll be the first one to come in as well. You have a reserved overhead compartment for yourself.

“So, yeah, row one is absolutely amazing. But to be honest, when I do travel, and I can choose to book a seat, I will book any window seat.

“I just love staring outside during the flight and enjoying the views.” According to Wizz Air’s website, front-row seats are classified as premium seats.

However, it’s not the only good option. Other premium seats include upfront seats at the front of the aircraft and extra-legroom seats in the emergency exit rows. Usually, passengers need to pay more for these seats, but sometimes they strike it lucky and get asked to move to emergency exit rows.

Gabriel explained that customers sometimes get ‘upgraded’ to these seats and get to enjoy the perks for free when the flight is not fully booked. “Sometimes, because the flights might not be fully booked, there would be no one close to the emergency exits”, Gabriel said.

“So what we need to do is to select someone who we call an ABP, an able-bodied person, and select them and to move them close to the emergency exits so that they can help out in case of an emergency”. He added: “Now, statistically, emergencies are quite rare, so that is basically an upgrade.”

Not everyone is eligible for these unofficial ‘upgrades’. The Wizz Air website explains: “For safety purposes, regulations prohibit passengers under 16 years old, overweight passengers, individuals with special needs, expectant mothers, and those travelling with infants (under 2 years old) from occupying Extra Legroom or Front Row seats.”

As Gabriel explained, these policies are implemented to ensure the safety of everyone onboard. In case of an emergency evacuation, passengers seated in the emergency rows will be instructed to open the doors. Any passengers seated in these rows will be briefed at the beginning of their flight.

Find out more on wizzair.com.

A woman died in a brutal plane crash that killed over 100 people after “missing her original plane”. After a sudden flight change, everything altered in an instant

A woman missed her flight and, due to a drastic turn of events, ended up dying with dozens of people in a brutal plane crash. It’s reported the simple act of being late dramatically changed the course of her life, and she ended up plummeting to her death.

The woman’s story was recently highlighted on Reddit when a family member shared the travel tragedy in a heartfelt post, and people can’t believe what happened. A simple change in her schedule led to altering her path completely, and the devastating story has left so many people in total sadness and shock.

It’s not the first tale of its kind to be shared either. Previously, a woman opened up about what is was like when her husband died in a plane crash that killed over 200 people.

The story emerged after someone asked: “We’ve heard stories of people escaping death by being late. What are some tragic examples of people dying because they were late?”

To this, one person replied: “My aunt missed her flight out of Denver on July, 19 1989. She took United flight 232 instead, dying in a fiery crash in Sioux City, IA.”

To this, one person replied: “I am so sorry for your loss. That is a brutal way for things to happen.”

Another added: “I actually had a ticket on that flight when I was a kid, but I had gotten pretty sick the day before we had to leave, and my parents decided to cancel the tickets to Chicago. What is crazy is that we did an analysis of the emergency response to this crash when I was in college.

“It is a small world. I am sorry for the loss of your aunt.”

A third also replied: “My dad was on that flight. He fortunately survived and flew home to Chicago later that night and was at work first thing the next day.”

One more also noted: “I was supposed to be on that plane! Travel plans changed but, had they not, I would have been flying home on this flight.”

For those unaware, the United Airlines Flight 232 was a regularly scheduled flight from Stapleton International Airport in Denver to O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, going on to Philadelphia International Airport in Philadelphia, United States.

However, on July 19, 1989, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 serving the flight crash-landed at Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City, Iowa. This was due to suffering what has been described as a catastrophic failure of its tail-mounted engine.

It’s reported this led to the loss of all flight controls. Over 100 people died in the crash but the majority are reported to have survived.

The incident was said to be deemed “unprecedented” at the time and, though many people sadly lost their lives, the team onboard worked with professional calmness and extreme skill to pull off something some would have believed “impossible” to land the aircraft.

In fact, it has since been termed “The Impossible Landing“, as it’s often considered one of the most impressive landings carried out in the history of aviation.