Inside secrets: Flight attendants reveal onboard hygiene risks
Travelling by plane can be problematic. Numerous bans and restrictions effectively take away the joy of travelling. A well-known flight attendant on TikTok, Kate, will make flying even less appealing for you. She lists several things we absolutely shouldn't do on board.
This airline expert shared her insights on TikTok on a profile named perfectlykate. There, she warns passengers, among other things, about unsanitary conditions in aeroplane bathrooms.
It's better not to do these things on a plane
"Do not use toilet paper on the plane," Kate appeals in her viral video. She admits it might be covered in urine because some men can't control their needs and might splash it. Her words caught the attention of many internet users who were surprised by the extent of the problem.
But this isn't the only warning for those concerned about hygiene during a flight. Other experts in the airline industry also emphasise how unclean various surfaces on the plane can be. Cher, a flight attendant with five years of experience, revealed that the dirtiest spots are window shades, seat belts, overhead compartments, and, of course, toilet seats.
Cher said in a conversation quoted by NYPost that throughout her career, she has only seen toilet seats thoroughly cleaned once. Rosa Sanchez, a professional cabin cleaner for several major airlines, has had similar experiences.
Kate also emphasises always wearing shoes when using the aeroplane bathroom.
"For the love of all things, wear shoes," she advises. If you do, it's better not to enter the bathroom in just socks or barefoot. There's urine all over the floor, she adds.
The flight attendant explains the role of the cabin crew
The flight attendant also shares other tips for passengers. She asks that they don't treat the crew's workspace as their own area for exercises or stretching. She also encourages showing empathy to mothers travelling with restless children.
"Don’t elbow your neighbours," Kate points out. "That’s assault, that is physical violence and physical violence means cops, OK? Be kind," she explains. The flight attendant also emphasises the importance of the cabin crew's role in emergency situations.
"Your flight attendants went through seven weeks of intensive training. We are trained in emergency response. There [are] no firefighters coming on their little fire truck up to the sky."
Finally, Kate reminds us that although there may be doctors on board, it is often the flight attendants who are the first line of help in emergencies. Her message is clear: respect the cabin crew and maintain hygiene during the flight.
