As air travel demand continues to grow, it is important to share some fascinating facts about it. Some may think that flying is similar to riding a commuter bus. That comparison is far from reality, but air travel has become so comfortable that it might feel that way. While the safest mode of transportation remains air travel, here are more facts you should know.
A Plane Is a Flying Life Support System
Did you know that flying on a commercial aircraft is similar to being on a spaceship? Both are large metal life support systems. At 30,000 feet and above, the air is too thin to breathe normally, and temperatures drop to around -44.5 degrees Celsius. That is about five times colder than -8 degrees Celsius. However, passengers feel comfortable because the cabin is pressurized and temperature-controlled. This makes a plane a flying life support system.
Planes Travel at Speeds of 500 to 900 km/h
A commercial aircraft typically flies between 500 km/h and 900 km/h. However, looking out the window, movement appears slow. This happens because at high altitudes, the ground is far below, making everything seem stationary. During takeoff and landing, when the aircraft is closer to the ground, movement appears faster. As the aircraft climbs, it accelerates until it reaches cruising speed.
Takeoff and Landing Are the Most Critical Phases
Many safety procedures take place during takeoff and landing. Passengers must keep their seats upright, tray tables stowed, seatbelts fastened, and window shades up. Flight attendants strictly enforce these rules because takeoff and landing are the most critical phases of a flight. Aircraft are closest to the ground during these moments, and most air accidents occur during these phases. Pilots and cabin crew remain fully alert during takeoff and landing to ensure safety.
Air Turbulence Cannot Cause a Plane to Crash
Turbulence may feel scary and uncomfortable, but it does not pose a danger to the aircraft. It occurs due to irregular changes in wind speed and direction, caused by weather, terrain, jet streams, and thunderstorms. This makes the aircraft shake and bump, similar to a car driving on a rough road. Pilots receive extensive training to handle turbulence, and modern aircraft can withstand even severe turbulence. As long as a plane has enough airspeed, it will continue flying.
Flight Attendants Are Not Required to Stow Your Luggage
Flight attendants may assist passengers in placing carry-on luggage into the overhead compartments, but they are not required to lift passenger luggage, especially for able-bodied passengers. Passengers are responsible for stowing their own bags. Repeatedly lifting heavy luggage can cause back and shoulder injuries for flight attendants. They must remain in peak physical condition in case of emergencies that require an immediate evacuation. Some airlines even forbid flight attendants from touching passengers’ bags. If a passenger cannot lift a bag, it must be checked in.
There Are About 7,500 Planes in the Air at Any Given Time
Flight tracking services like Flightradar24 and FlightAware show that around 12,000 planes are airborne at the same time. This number can rise to 15,000 or even 20,000, depending on the season. However, passengers rarely see other planes from their windows due to strict separation rules. Aircraft maintain safe vertical and horizontal distances from each other to prevent mid-air collisions. If pilots report air traffic congestion, it is real, even if passengers do not see other planes.
The Triangle Above the Window Has a Purpose
Some planes have a small triangle above certain windows. This marker indicates the best view of the wing and engine. The purpose is not for premium seating but for safety. In case of an emergency, crew members use these windows to check the aircraft’s exterior before opening exit doors.
Aircraft Wings Are Designed to Flex
During turbulence, the wings may shake and flex, which can appear alarming. However, this movement is normal and helps reduce stress on the aircraft’s structure. This flexibility absorbs turbulence, preventing excessive force from transferring to the fuselage. Boeing tested the 787’s wings by bending them beyond 150% of the aircraft’s expected force limits, proving their strength and durability.
Cabin Lights Are Dimmed for Safety
Cabin lights are dimmed during takeoff and landing for safety reasons, not just comfort. If an emergency occurs and power is lost, the cabin will become dark. A sudden change in lighting can make it difficult for passengers to adjust their vision and locate emergency exits. By dimming the lights, passengers’ eyes are already adjusted to the lower light level, making it easier to find exits in an emergency.
The Primary Duty of Flight Attendants Is Safety
Many passengers think flight attendants are only there to serve food and drinks, but their main responsibility is safety. They undergo rigorous training in first aid, firefighting, survival swimming, self-defense, and emergency evacuation procedures. They must renew their safety certifications yearly. Flight attendants have the authority to enforce safety regulations, and passengers are required by law to follow their instructions.
Most passengers are unaware of these air travel facts. Learning them helps travelers understand the importance of safety measures and enjoy a more comfortable flight.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
