Tales from the skies: Flight attendant's hygiene warnings
Travelling by plane can be problematic. Numerous bans and restrictions can take away the joy of flying. A well-known flight attendant on TikTok, Kate, may make flying even less appealing for you. She lists several things we absolutely shouldn't do on board.
31 October 2024 10:04
This airline expert shared her insights on TikTok on a profile named perfectlykate. There, she warns passengers, among other things, about unsanitary conditions in airplane 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. "It's covered in urine because some men can't control their needs and might splash it," she admits. 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 emphasize how unclean various surfaces on the plane can be. Cher, a flight attendant with five years of experience, revealed that the filthiest spots are window shades, seat belts, overhead compartments, and of course, toilet seats.
Cher mentioned to the *NYPost* that, throughout her career, she had only once seen toilet seats receive a thorough cleaning. Rosa Sanchez, a professional cabin cleaner for several major airlines, has encountered similar situations.
"Sometimes there is blood on the floor, toilet, walls, and feces and urine on the toilet seat," she admits. Kate also emphasizes always wearing shoes when using the airplane bathroom.
"Don't take off your shoes on board," 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. Keep your shoes on," 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 poke your neighbours," Kate points out. "It's a form of physical aggression, and there might be legal consequences for that. Be kind," she explains. The flight attendant also emphasizes the importance of the cabin crew's role in emergencies.
"We've undergone seven weeks of intensive training. We are trained to respond to emergencies." We put out fires on board, subdue aggressive passengers, and provide medical assistance. There are no firefighters or police officers 9,000 metres above the ground.
Finally, Kate reminds us that although there may be doctors on board, the flight attendants often are the first line of help in emergencies. Her message is clear: respect the cabin crew and maintain hygiene during the flight.
