Do's and don'ts on-board an aircraft

What should you do and what should you not do on a plane according to the cabin crew? Here are the top do’s and don’ts:

✅ To do: Drink plenty of water

Airplane cabins are extremely dry environments. The humidity level on board is 10 to 20 times lower than what we experience on the ground, which makes dehydration and headaches much more likely.

That’s why staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do during your flight. Cabin crew members themselves are advised to drink about half a liter of water for every flight hour. So don’t wait until you’re thirsty, keep sipping water regularly to feel better during and after your journey.

✅ To do: Choose the right door when boarding

Your boarding pass contains all the information you need, including your seat number. If your airline allows boarding from both the front and the back of the aircraft, use the entrance closest to your seat.

For example, if your seat is in row 25, it’s often faster and easier to board through the rear door, instead of the front door. This prevents unnecessary traffic jams in the aisle and helps boarding go more smoothly for everyone.

❌ Don’t: Stand up too early after landing

It might be tempting to jump up as soon as the plane touches down, but please remain seated until the seatbelt sign has been switched off. Did you know that the landing speed of a Boeing 737 is around 250 km/h? Even after landing, the aircraft may still be moving at high speeds while taxiing to the gate.

Standing up too soon can be unsafe, both for you and for other passengers. Waiting just a few extra minutes ensures that everyone can disembark safely and calmly.

❌ Don’t: Line up for the toilet in the galley

The galley is the crew’s working space, and often the place where they have a quick meal during the flight. When passengers form a line in the galley to use the toilet, it causes a lot of disruption.

If you see the crew using the galley, it’s best to wait in your seat until the lavatory is unoccupied or until there’s space in the aisle to wait there.

❌ ✅ To do or not to do: applauding after landing

A classic debate: to applaud or not. In many countries, people find it over the top or even annoying. For other passengers, however, clapping after landing is a way to show appreciation for the pilots and crew, and also a relief that the plane has safely reached its destination.

The do's and don'ts listed:

• Do: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Do: Use the boarding door closest to your assigned row.
• Don’t: Stand up before the seatbelt sign is off.
• Don’t: Queue for the toilet in the galley while the crew is eating or working.
• Do or don’t: Clapping after landing, choose by yourself 😉

With these do's and don'ts in mind, you’ll not only make your own journey more enjoyable but also help the crew and your fellow passengers. I look forward to welcoming you on board soon!

See you soon!

By: Rico Valkenborgh | January 18, 2024