It’s not always easy to conquer your fears -especially when they are irrational fears. Although a fear of flying affects one in four passengers, it is relatively difficult to explain. More than a fear of dying, it is often linked to the fear of having no control over the situation, leaving your life in the hands of two strangers, or even to do with the unpleasant sensations we often experience during a flight. So for any flying phobic people out there, here are a few unusual details revealed by experienced pilots, to help you take off in peace!
1/ Certain companies forbid their pilots from growing beards
For security reasons, certain airlines forbid their pilots from having a beard, lest it should interfere with the functioning of the oxygen mask during an emergency. Because yes, the pilots have to do the same as you in an emergency!
2/ The pilot has to queue for the toilets like everyone else!
No need to ask in terror who is flying the plane if you spy the pilot behind you in the queue for the toilets! Certain airline companies don’t have staff toilets, as they prefer to use the space for supplementary seating. But we agree, it just doesn’t seem right!
3/ A harsh landing could be done on purpose
Have you ever been left with the impression that the pilot of your long distance flight was getting tired by the time landing happened, making you think you’re headed for a last minute crash? Be aware that a heavy landing doesn’t necessarily mean that the pilot has managed it badly. By contrast, it may have been done on purpose, due to poor weather conditions, for example. If the runway is very wet, it is better to land heavily to ensure the aircraft doesn’t aquaplane. Just like in a car!
4/ If the cabin lights are switched off during a night landing, it is to protect your eyes
Don’t immediately assume it’s an electricity shortage! If the lights are switched off during a night landing, rest assured that it is only for the good of your eyes. The cabin lights being much more powerful than those outside, turning them down helps you avoid a shock to the system when you disembark.
5/ The air hostesses need to phone the pilots every 20 to 40 minutes to ensure they are still fit to fly the plane
As a general rule, the air hostesses use the phone to communicate with the pilots in the cockpit. They are required to call them every 40 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes at night, in order to ensure that everything is okay and they are still fit to fly.
6/ If it is cold on the plane, this is because higher temperatures are harmful to your health
Have you ever noticed that it is always cold on planes? If the cabin temperature was too high, you would quickly start to lack oxygen. This could lead to fainting, and happens when temperatures are too high at altitude. So if you are cold, don’t complain, it’s for your own good! Just make sure to wear warm clothes.
