Unlocking the Cockpit: Pilots Reveal The 8 Forbidden Acts They Never Commit as Air Passengers

Insider Insights: Pilots Reveal 8 Air Travel Taboos They Strictly Avoid as Passengers

When airline pilots find themselves in the passenger seat, their perspective from the cockpit unveils a set of unspoken rules for air travel. HuffPost delved into the exclusive world of pilots to discover the behaviors they conscientiously sidestep when they're not at the controls.

Stefán Dór Arnarsson, a pilot at Icelandic airline PLAY, emphasized the importance of maintaining footwear etiquette even at 30,000 feet. "Many passengers understandably take their shoes off when seated for comfort during the flight, but I always make sure to wear shoes when using the bathroom," he shared. The thought of encountering bodily fluids sans footwear is a major deterrent for most, yet some brave souls venture into the lavatory barefoot or even sockless.

Charter airline pilot Michelle Gooris, known as Dutch Pilot Girl in the blogosphere, expressed her disbelief: "I’d never go to the bathroom barefoot. How crazy is that?" Furthermore, she stressed the importance of adhering to seatbelt rules, stating, "I’d never stand up in the aisle when the plane is not at the gate yet and the fasten seatbelt is still on." Beyond being against the law, it poses a potential safety risk as sudden braking maneuvers, such as when waiting for the docking system's signal, can lead to passenger injuries.

Gooris also highlighted the importance of patience during the deplaning process, noting, "I’d never stand up in the aisle during the deplaning process before it’s my row’s turn." This etiquette ensures a smoother and safer exit for all passengers.

Jeanie Carter, a pilot for private aviation company Wheels Up, revealed her in-flight hydration strategy: "I always stop at the market or anywhere that sells bottled water and take my own onboard." Recognizing that unforeseen circumstances may limit the flight attendants' refreshment services, Carter advised fellow passengers to stock up on beverages before boarding to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Addressing the common fear of turbulence, Carter reassured, "Turbulence is an annoyance for most, but the airplane will not fall out of the sky." She emphasized the importance of following flight crew instructions to ensure a safe experience—remain seated and fasten your seatbelt when prompted.

In unveiling these unspoken guidelines, pilots offer a unique perspective on air travel, shedding light on practices that contribute to a safer and more comfortable journey for all.

Navigating the Skies: Pilots Share Insider Tips for Smoother Air Travel

Turbulence, often a source of anxiety for passengers, becomes less daunting when viewed through the eyes of seasoned pilots. Jeanie Carter, a pilot at Wheels Up, suggests a reframing technique to ease nerves during bumpy rides. "I liken turbulence to riding in a boat," she explained. "In the boat, you can see the waves as you are bouncing along. Air is a fluid just like water, but in the air, you are unable to see the ‘waves.’ It’s perfectly safe, and the airplane can handle it.

Reflecting on her early career experiences, Carter shared a valuable lesson learned on carry-on etiquette. "On commercial flights, I tossed both bags in the overhead bin and thought nothing more of it until one of the last passengers to board looked so dejected when there was no room for his suitcase in overhead," she recalled. Now, she consistently places her backpack under the seat, advocating for a small change that could significantly improve the travel experience for everyone.

Pilot and blogger Mindy Lindheim echoed the sentiment of enhancing the passenger experience. "I never keep the window shade closed for takeoff or landing," Lindheim declared. "Not only does it give the best views to appreciate, but it also allows passengers to be an extra set of eyes!" Lindheim highlighted the importance of passengers spotting abnormalities, as pilots may have limited visibility of the wings from the cockpit.

Stefán Dór Arnarsson, emphasizing the need for a smooth boarding process, shared his pre-boarding ritual. "Before boarding begins, I arrange my belongings to minimize my time getting to my seat," he explained. By streamlining the process and ensuring everything needed during the flight is readily accessible, passengers can contribute to a more efficient boarding experience for all.

While acknowledging the new challenges faced by flight crews due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened passenger emotions, the pilots emphasized the importance of recognizing the hard work done by the crew. In a time of increased risks and tensions, acknowledging the efforts of flight crew members can go a long way in creating a more supportive and cooperative travel environment.

Expressing Gratitude and Sustaining Quality Journalism: A Call to Support HuffPost's Mission

Jeanie Carter, shedding light on a simple yet impactful practice, shared, "As I’m deplaning, I always say thank you to the flight crew. I try to make it personal and thank them for getting me to my destination on time or safely. Even if the flight is delayed or there was bad weather that the crew dealt with, I always say thank you.

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