Understanding the Concept of Red Eye Flights

Have you ever experienced a Red Eye Flight, those flights that occur late in the evening or in the early morning hours? Often, budget airlines schedule these types of flights to provide passengers with more affordable airfare options. For instance, both Cebu Pacific and AirAsia Philippines have arranged for international red eye flights. You might be curious as to why airlines offer red eye flights instead of sticking to more conventional time slots.

The term “red eye” is a metaphorical representation of the tired, sleep-deprived eyes of passengers, often appearing red, who embark on these late-night travels. Not all passengers find it easy to catch some shut-eye while flying, and the result is often fatigued, red eyes.

The inception of red eye flights is not clear-cut, but it’s known that in the early years of aviation, such flights were practically non-existent due to the lack of necessary night staff and equipment at airports. Characteristically, a red eye flight is one that departs late in the evening, usually post 9 P.M, and arrives at its destination early in the morning, around 5 or 6 A.M. This means you’re soaring through the sky when most people are fast asleep.

Understanding the Pros and Cons of Red Eye Flights

Red Eye flights, like all things, come with their set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore these to get a holistic understanding of what you’re signing up for when you book a red eye flight.

From the airline’s perspective, scheduling flights during the night allows them to maximize the utilization of aircrafts that would be stationary during these hours. For airports, it makes sense to distribute the flow of passengers beyond the rush hours. At larger airports, the ability to accommodate flights during the day may reach its limit, and the cost of airport slots could escalate during high-traffic periods.

These late night flights are typically cheaper than flights scheduled at other times, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. In addition, they are business-friendly as they allow corporate travelers to avoid wasting a workday in transit. Red eye flights are also less crowded than morning or midday flights, increasing the chances of having an empty seat next to you, and with fewer passengers, you’re more likely to find ample space in the overhead bins for your carry-on luggage. You also have a higher chance of getting your preferred seat, and you’ll experience shorter queues for security checks and check-ins. At your destination, you’ll likely retrieve your luggage quicker, and generally, red eye flights have a reputation for being on time.

However, there are also some downsides to consider. The major disadvantage of these kinds of flights is the potential for a sleepless night. This may cause you to feel excessively tired and lethargic the following day due to lack of sleep. Also, not all airlines offer red eye flights, thereby limiting your options.

Preparation for a Red Eye Flight

If you’ve decided to take the leap and book a late night flight, here are some useful tips to help you prepare and make your journey as comfortable as possible:

When booking, opt for a window seat as it provides a comfortable spot to rest your head. Dressing comfortably with loose, breathable clothing will maximize your comfort during the flight. Also, consider packing a neck pillow, blanket, eye mask, or earplugs as these sleeping aids can help you sleep better during the flight. Prior to the flight, avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol as these can interfere with your ability to sleep. Eating a light meal before boarding can help prevent hunger pangs in the middle of the night. If possible, choose the later red eye flight option to give yourself more time to prepare. And finally, invest in good quality ear plugs and eye mask as they can significantly improve your chances of falling asleep.