Random Air Travel Trivia that Passengers Should Know

Ever wondered why your ears pop during a flight or why the cabin lights are dimmed during landing? Air travel is filled with mysteries and hidden facts that most passengers are unaware of. Allow me to share some random air travel trivia that you must at least be aware of.

The Sounds and Sights Inside the Cabin

• Luggage Loading Noise: That loud banging noise you hear when boarding isn’t something to worry about. It’s just the sound of luggage and cargo being loaded or unloaded. Even the flushing of the lavatory tanks contributes to the noise.
• Bumps on the Wings: Noticed those bumps with holes on the wings? They’re there to help flight attendants attach ropes for inflatable slides during an emergency water landing. Without them, the wings would be too slippery for passengers.
• Blue Seats and Calmness: Many airplanes have blue seats, and it’s not just a random choice. Blue is known to instill calm and confidence, making it an ideal color for passengers flying high above the ground.
• Window Seat for Health: Want to avoid getting sick on a plane? Choose a window seat. Sitting far from the aisle and staying put reduces your chances of breathing in germs from higher-traffic areas.

Safety Measures and Precautions

• Fire Safety: Did you know that fire can spread through a plane in less than two minutes? That’s why knowing the location of emergency exits is vital, and why flight attendants emphasize them during the safety briefing.
• Oxygen Masks: In the rare event of needing oxygen masks, rest assured that they can supply air for 12 to 15 minutes, enough time for a safe landing.
• Lightning Protection: Flying in lightning might seem scary, but planes are built to withstand lightning strikes. The metal and lightning protection systems ensure that the aircraft remains a safe place during a storm.
• Cabin Lights Dimmed for Security: Ever wondered why cabin lights are dimmed during landing? It’s a security preparation that allows passengers’ eyes to adjust to darkness, aiding in evacuation if needed.

Unusual Facts and Practices

• Pilots’ Meals: To prevent both the pilot and co-pilot from getting food poisoning, they eat different meals. This practice began after an incident in 1982 when passengers and crew became sick from eating the same food.
• Unruly Passengers: Cause problems in the air, and you might find yourself handcuffed. Some airlines even keep plastic zip-tie cuffs on the plane for this purpose.
• Babies Born in the Sky: Though rare, babies have been born on airplanes. Some flight attendants are trained to deliver a baby, but they’ll still seek help from any onboard doctors.

Here’s a taste of the many air travel trivia you might find interesting. Everything on board an aircraft has a specific reason and purpose, so never take air travel safety lightly. Want to learn more? Check out this website for more surprising air travel trivia that might just catch you off guard.