Traveling can be a pain in the neck as it is, so you might not always be focusing on the cleanliness of your aircraft. Well, perhaps you should (at least a little).
A flight attendant recently spilled the beans about a few of the dirtiest areas on airplanes, including why you may want to reconsider ordering a coffee the next time you fly. But don’t worry, there are other precautions to take as well, which will help you have less germ-filled experiences.
So sit back, relax, and hopefully you don’t need to reach for the sick bag.
Inside Edition spoke with flight attendant Jamila Hardwick during an interview at Air Hollywood. Fortunately for us, she was happy to share some “dirty secrets” airplanes have.
You may want to wipe down your tray next time.
When you don’t have much room on a flight, your folding tray can seem almost like a luxury. But before you set your computer and snacks on top, just make sure you disinfect it yourself with a disposable cloth.
According to Hardwick, they’re “disgusting” and there isn’t time for them to be properly cleaned in between flights.
If you like getting comfy on a flight, Hardwick has a suggestion in regards to pillows and blankets.
She told Inside Editon:
“Bring your own. These get washed, but we are not so sure how great they are washed. Same for the pillow. They will take the lining off the pillow and give you a new one but you still have the pillow in there that’s dirty.”
There are some other dirty spots you should know about.
In a Forbes article, they address the fact that seatbelt buckles and the headrest of the aisle seat get extremely germy too – just with all the contact. So be sure to bring some hand sanitizer.
Another thing that’s touched all the time? Overhead air vents. People are constantly adjusting the airflow and it’s uncertain how often they’re wiped down.
While these are pretty gross things to think about – remember, statistically, it’s safer to fly on an airplane than drive in a car!
You may want to order something other than a warm beverage.
It’s understandable that traveling may have you wanting a nice hot cup of coffee or tea – but Hardwick wouldn’t necessarily recommend you ask for one. Apparently, her fellow employees don’t order them while flying themselves.
She reveals:
“The thing about the coffee and tea, the pipes are rarely cleaned.”
Okay, so maybe selecting “a cold one” isn’t such a bad idea.
According to Inside Edition, Airlines for America gave them a statement. Some of it is included below.
“Every crewmember’s number one priority – from boarding to arrival – is safety, and they take that responsibility seriously. Flight attendants work hard to get travelers safely to their destinations across the country and around the world, while ensuring an enjoyable environment for everyone. The safety of passengers and crew also includes the provision of clean drinking water and amenities … Airlines work continuously to ensure a clean and comfortable cabin area for their passengers, as carriers know that the cleanliness of the aircraft is important to customers when they make their travel decisions.”
It’s an investigation that’s gone viral and has been viewed millions of times. Watch it yourself below and see what else Hardwick has to reveal in regards to flying on planes.
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