12 Flight Crew Secrets That Will Change How You Travel

Ever wondered what flight crew know that passengers don’t? From getting unexpected upgrades to insider tips for a more comfortable flight, these secrets can transform your travel experience. Buckle up and discover the hidden gems that will make your next flight smoother and more enjoyable.

1.

"Sometimes delays are caused by flight attendants not showing up and the airline scrambling to get a back-up scheduled. Like a flight attendant was partying too hard last night and decided to call off 2 hours before that $1500 cross-ocean flight you just popped on." tz100 / Reddit

2.

"We do not ask you to put your seats in an upright position during takeoffs and landings for no reason. It's because we have ninety seconds to evacuate the plane in case of emergency, and your reclined seat may impede the person in the row behind you from getting out." dallenhill / Reddit

3.

"An airplane can fly with one engine, and if an engine catches on fire, they have the means of extinguishing it while in air." asamermaid / Reddit

4.

"I was cabin crew for five years, and whilst we've all passed the exams and tests and have a refresher every year, you never really know how anyone will react in any kind of emergency. So definitely pay a bit of attention for the three minutes of the safety demo and figure out where the nearest exit and its alternative are because you never know, you might end up having to help yourself." HadHerses / Reddit

5.

"We can often be working 6 days in a row on minimum rest, treat us nicely, please. And we can ask the captain to remove you from the flight if you're being impolite. They will say yes." ICameHereToDrinkMilk / Reddit

6.

"A flight attendant told me that in the event of a situation where passengers have to cover their heads you do not 'lock' your fingers over head but place one hand on top of the other. If something falls on your hand/head, you'll still have one good hand to use." DeviantOffspring / Reddit

7.

"It was fairly common for people to leave phones, tablets, wallets, etc., in seat pockets which we would then find during security checks on turnaround. We can't take them back to the base airport due to security, so they get handed over to a dispatcher with paperwork. We've just got to hope the dispatcher doesn't pocket them." BowieBlueEye / Reddit

8.

Want a chance at a free upgrade to business class? Flight attendants and gate agents tend to favor passengers when complimentary upgrades become available if they are well-dressed. Think polished yet comfortable - smart casual or business casual outfits work best. Avoid wearing flip-flops, graphic tees, or overly casual clothing. While it's not a guarantee, looking like you belong in a premium seat certainly boosts your chances.

9.

"If you pay for 'extra legroom' then be aware that some of these seats are by uncrewed emergency exits. If you have a disability or require a seat belt extension, then we will have to move you for safety purposes." BowieBlueEye / Reddit

10.

"Many passengers see us as glorified waitresses and waiters, and to be honest, we are for 70% of the trip. But we are also highly trained professionals who are able to deal with any situation on board." Munkyspyder / Reddit

11.

"Sometimes there is too much baggage on full flights. Instead of removing baggage and delaying flights, the handler in charge will often just lie about how much weight is stowed within the baggage area. And a bag marked fragile will get thrown just as hard as every other bag being quickly packed into the bin." Unknown author / Reddit

12.

"There are lots of delays for other reasons (weather being a big one. And don't even say that there's no weather where you are. There isn't, but that doesn't mean there's not weather somewhere else!), but you'd be amazed at how many are caused by the people around you while you're trying to board the plane. This is also part of why gate agents are so strict about cutting off loading times." JustZoni / Reddit

Now that you're armed with these insider flight secrets, you're ready to fly smarter and more comfortably. Remember, a little charm, good timing, and knowing the right tricks can elevate your entire journey. Safe travels and happy flying.