Does flying low cost necessarily mean the trip will be less safe? What would happen if your plane was struck by lightning? Why should our seats be in an upright position before landing? Your burning questions are answered by the same people who serve you drinks and snacks on the plane. Airplane attendants know everything and know the details and secrets of air travel.
Discover the untold secrets of flight attendants, from the things that annoy them to their in-flight tips and tricks. These travel experts possess wisdom that can alleviate your fears and might even make you reconsider complaining about that questionable dinner on your next flight. Dive into the exclusive insights on air travel that only flight attendants can share.
1- What are the things that cause inconvenience to flight attendants?
Rude passengers, touching the flight attendant to get his attention when he walks by, talking in whispers (in-plane noise can be very loud, and we’re not good at lip-reading!), complaining about bad weather or a plane being delayed due to maintenance (none of which we can control “Things, and we feel as disturbed by them as you do.”
2- Why must tables and seats be in an upright position during take-off and landing?
The tables on the plane play a crucial role during evacuation, especially when time is of the essence. A flat table can hinder the quick exit of passengers from the middle and window seats, causing delays. In case of a fire, a clear aisle is vital for passengers to escape towards the exit door. The same applies to the seats, as any obstruction can impede the passenger’s emergency exit. Ensuring unobstructed pathways and functional tables is essential for passenger safety and efficient evacuation during emergencies.
3- What do flight attendants wish passengers knew or understood?
We do not have the discretion to choose the services we offer passengers. Our role is to fulfill our responsibilities and provide what is available. If any desired item is not available, we regretfully cannot provide it. Additionally, we have no control over flight delays caused by weather conditions or aircraft maintenance. Therefore, we kindly request your understanding and patience when such situations occur. As Captain Solenberger, one of the renowned retired American captains, wisely stated, “Safety is paramount, even if it means a temporary delay.”
4- What are the common myths about aviation that people believe in even though they are not true?
Sitting in emergency mode is not as effective as you might think. While it’s a common myth, hiding anywhere on the plane during a crash landing won’t provide much protection. Instead, it’s important to prepare your body for impact by supporting and covering vital areas like the neck, face, and stomach. Even flight attendants adopt a standby position during take-off and landing for added safety. Remember, being aware and taking necessary precautions is crucial in emergency situations.
5- Does flying low cost mean it is less safe?
Determining ticket prices is a complex process influenced by various factors. These include the timing of booking, room availability, seat selection, and participation in frequent flyer programs that offer points and discounts. Other considerations include baggage allowances and seat assignment systems. All airlines comply with regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration, prioritizing safety standards. While airlines can modify their offerings, safety remains a top priority.
6- What type of training does a flight attendant receive?
The training program lasts for approximately five and a half weeks, with the majority of it being unpaid. Throughout the training, we acquire knowledge and undergo tests to assess our proficiency in various areas, including general aircraft information, first aid, safety regulations, and evacuation procedures. We dedicate four days exclusively to training on passenger services during this period.
7- What training do flight attendants receive regarding emergencies related to the aircraft and passengers?
We receive comprehensive training on safety standards and emergency procedures, dedicating 4 out of the 5 weeks of training to these crucial topics. With daily practice over 6 days a week, we become adept at handling various situations that may arise during our job. As professional air hostesses, we are selected for our ability to make informed decisions and assess situations and people effectively. While we are well-prepared to manage emergencies, there are instances where seeking a second opinion from another cabin crew member is necessary. Trust our expertise and training for a safe and secure flying experience.
8- What would happen if one of the plane’s engines broke down?
All aircraft are equipped and certified for single-engine flight and safe landing. Airplanes flying over water adhere to the Extended Range Twin-Engine Operating Performance Standard (ETOPS). The aerodynamic design of the aircraft allows smooth airflow, reducing friction with the fuselage and enabling extended glide during landing with a single engine. Notable examples include Air Canada Flight 143, which successfully glided and landed after running out of fuel at 41,000 feet, and the famous American Airlines Flight 1549, which safely landed after losing all engines shortly after take-off. It’s important to note that a malfunctioning plane engine is a rare occurrence, not comparable to a flat tire on a car.”
9- Can air turbulence cause a plane to crash?
Turbulence during flights can be both annoying and potentially hazardous, causing passengers to lose balance and flight attendants to be at a higher risk of injury. Thanks to advancements in technology, predicting turbulence has become easier than ever before. While pilots generally have prior knowledge of expected turbulence, there are instances when it can occur suddenly and violently. Passengers face the greatest danger when they are not seated with their seat belts fastened during such occurrences, as unusual disturbances can cause unsecured items to become projectiles. Ensuring passenger safety and minimizing injuries during turbulence is crucial for a smooth and secure flight experience.
10- What happens when the landing gear malfunctions?
During a belly landing, an aircraft touches down on its stomach without deploying the landing gear. This was the case with flight No. 16 of Polish Airlines (LOT) when it made a successful belly landing. Emergency vehicles and crew were on standby as a precaution. The flight attendants efficiently carried out evacuation procedures, ensuring the safe evacuation of all 231 passengers through the emergency chutes. Fortunately, there were no injuries or loss of life.
