Neil Armstrong became the first human to step on the Moon‘s surface in 1969, during the Apollo 11 mission. But after Gene Cernan finished his 3-hour Moon walk in 1972 (Apollo 17), people have not returned to the Earth’s satellite.

The 21^st century has seen a new dawn of space exploration. Enabled by billionaires such as Richard Branson, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos, the space travel timeline continues in an era of space tourism.

Seeing Paris, crossing the Chinese Wall, space travel… Is this what your bucket list looks like?

In other words (to quote Sinatra), even civilians can now become astronauts. Suborbital flights, visits to the International Space Station, spaceflight from the Earth to the Moon, or even permanent relocation to Mars, have made it to the bucket lists previously filled with ‘seeing Paris’ or ‘walking on the Chinese Wall’.

But making it into space travel history comes at an astronomical price (pun intended). Who can afford to play among the stars and see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars? Is Space just the newest playground for the rich? “Fly Me to the Moon” lyrics in billionaires’ real life?

The interest of the general public is still kept higher than their pay grade, with promotional stunts that promise – a free ticket to space.

Money is not the only currency to cash out for the unique experience of leaving Earth, anyway. There are much more valuable resources to lose during the adventure. Any wannabe astronaut should consider the ultimate price to pay for the trip: Is space travel worth risking life?

Technology has advanced immensely in recent years. Check out what artificial intelligence has to say about travel trends for humans!

Signing up for risking life

I decided to apply for one of those civilian space missions. Unlike the astronauts of the yesteryears, I didn’t have to be a pilot or have any special degree to be eligible. So I gave it a go.

After pre-registration, I was invited to an initial screening. I had to provide basic personal data, a few images, and answer a couple of questions illustrating my passions and visions on how the space adventure would change it all.

They also asked about the number of social media friends and followers. I guess one needs to leverage a free trip to space with some monetizable influencer statistics.

Even if I didn’t get to the interview and the medical check-up phase, the terms and conditions of the selection process were clear from the start. They reminded me at least twice about the seriousness of what I was signing up for.

I had to confirm that I fully understand and acknowledge that “participation in the space flight and its preparatory activities are inherently dangerous and involves risks to life and health“, and that I take full responsibility for it.

I don’t even know how to fly a plane, but sure, why not take the full responsibility for riding the rocket to space, and returning it safely back to Earth?

Transferring the insurance for life-risking space journeys to the passenger’s account is quite logical. Commercial space flight operators are aware that human life is both expendable and priceless.

You can get to galaxies far, far away, without leaving Earth's orbit. Meet Star Wars hotels!

Elon Musk: Space travel pioneers volunteer for probable death

On April 22^nd, 2021 (Earth Day), Elon Musk sat to talk to Peter Diamandis about humanity’s future, and the importance of becoming a multi-planetary species.

The live stream of the chat sees the barefoot Musk laughing off the idea that flying to Mars would be an “escape hatch for rich people”. The argument? Well, the trip is dangerous.

He compared going to Mars to an early-20^th-century expedition to the Antarctic, recalling the advert that the explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton supposedly placed in The Times.

Even if it was debunked as an urban myth, the story went that the content of the ad said: “Men wanted for hazardous journey, small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful, honor and recognition in case of success.”

The legend says that 5.000 men responded to the call.

Back to Elon Musk’s space flight to Mars.

“It’s dangerous, it’s uncomfortable, it’s a long journey. You might not even come back alive! But it is a glorious adventure, and it will be an amazing experience,” the CEO of SpaceX explained, not forgetting to laugh. “Yeah, honestly, a bunch of people will probably die in the beginning. We don’t make anyone go. Volunteers only!”

If you love space topics, you'll find many new friends with common interests at events like Fantasy Basel!

One small step for man

A million people volunteered to test SpaceX Starship during the first private spaceflight around the Moon. The funder of the dearMoon civilian mission, Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa, would pick only the lucky eight to become his fellow passengers.

It is just one of the space tours that attracted global attention recently. And all of them have one thing in common. The 21^st-century flight to space is enabled by the inequalities in world wealth.

Just like the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union fueled the early era of space exploration, the chapter on civilian space travel is enabled by the competition of the richest people on the planet. One small step for man became one small step for businessman.

The world’s first space tourist was Dennis Tito. He paid 20 million dollars to spend a week on the International Space Station in 2001. Inspired by Yuri Gagarin’s space travel in 1961, he never regretted paying for “the greatest moment of his life”.

Back then, NASA was not interested in transporting private persons to space. They were all turning to Space Adventures, the American space travel agency arranging a trip to ISS on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft.

The price the first space tourists had to pay grew over time. For instance, video game developer Richard Garriot paid 30 million in 2008, and Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte cashed out 35 million USD in 2009.

But the rich also took things into their hands. The billionaires’ race to space was never as apparent as in July 2021. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos flew on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket on July 20. Richard Branson beat him by experiencing minutes of weightlessness on the Virgin Galactic space flight with Unity spacecraft just nine days earlier.

Is space exploration a waste of money?

“I want to thank every Amazon employee and every Amazon customer because you guys paid for all this”, Bezos said after his 11-minute ride.

It seems the richest people in the world never felt the crisis of the coronavirus pandemic. On the contrary, Bezos’ wealth grew by 86 million dollars!

Along with enthusiasts, critics of the billionaires’ newest hobby also grow. Some are sharp in claiming that space exploration is a waste of money.

In October, David Beasley, the head of the UN’s World Food Program, stung Elon Musk with a Twitter congratulation for earning 36 billion dollars in a single day. “1/6 of your one-day increase would save 42 million lives that are knocking on famine’s door”, said the director of the food agency.

While no man alone could solve world hunger, discussions on taxing the rich become louder. In the times of global flight suspensions during the pandemic, their rockets are tearing the sky, in a historical show-off of power.

On the other side, the pandemic, as well as the unavoidable climate change, also teaches us how vulnerable we are as a species. Is becoming a multi-planetary civilization the only scenario that can save our future? And how do a high carbon footprint of the rockets and space travel environmental impact fit into that equation?

The original question of this article was whether space travel is worth risking life. When we turn around ourselves, it’s not possible to ignore that our lives are already at risk.

Time on Earth is precious

“I’ve spent my entire career working to extend people’s lives. However, with limited materials and energy on Earth, extending our reach into space can help humanity continue to thrive.”

These were the words of Glen de Vries, the developer of medical science software, before he embarked on a Blue Origin suborbital flight on October 13, 2021. He flew together with William Shatner, the famous Captain Kirk of Star Trek’s Enterprise.

Just a month after his flight to space, de Vries died in a plane crash. He was flying a small Cessna aircraft, and even if he was a certified pilot, his life ended in tragedy.

More than a conclusion that one is risking life by living it, de Vries left us with some prophetic, and hopefully educational words after his flight on Jeff Bezos’ rocket.

“I had that heightened sense of time in my mind starting from the countdown”, Glen said. “I think I’ve taken that perspective back down with me to our planet, and into my relationships. The passage of time, just like the resources on Earth, feels more precious with an expanded perspective.”

Making space for space travel

In my youth, I was a sleepwalker. In Croatia, we call that phenomenon mjesečarenje, literally a Moonwalk. And no, it has nothing to do with Michael Jackson.

The Moon’s power of attraction is both mythological and real. Through the tides, it makes life possible. We measure time by its cycles. Besides the months, we also call the first day of the week after the Moon.

The fascination with our closest celestial neighbor is understandable. Conquering it in the 1960s was just the first step in our space journeys. Human curiosity for what lies beyond our horizons marches on.

Space travel provokes similar wonder as climbing mountains. Why are humans risking life to enlarge the horizon?

My application for a space travel adventure was a response to an inner urge. “To boldly go where no man has gone before” is, for me, a precise definition of what being human is.

After I revealed my astronaut (or touristronaut) aspirations to some colleagues, their gaze turned blank. A big question mark was almost tangible in the air. Why would anyone be willing to risk his life in order to fly to space?

Human progress relies on taking risks, and yet it stops most of us from acting. Rationally, it seems unnecessary for survival. It’s even intuitive. The one who doesn’t risk life, is the one who keeps it, right?

Similarly, people often wonder about what pushes alpinists to climb mountains. Why are they willing to endanger their lives just so they could claim the summit? Their achievement seems to be provoking survival.

Space travel is not just another tourist trend for the rich and the eccentric. The question of risk here could be well connected with the probability of survival. In the long term, in a civilization that grows and consumes its resources at an unsustainable speed, we all might need more – space.

Space travel tourism future

The future of space tourism is around the corner. Whether you want to experience the view of Earth from the Moon, see the other side of the Moon, travel to other planets, or just travel through space, commercial space travel companies are eager to transform your dollars into an unforgettable space vacation.

Space flights for civilians are the reality of today, and anyone with large enough pockets can write their name on a space travelers list.

This is the predictable space travel timeline for the upcoming years. Which of the space travel opportunities would you consider taking?

2022

Suborbital flights

The cheapest way to visit space as a civilian is by joining suborbital flights operated by Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin.

There are hundreds of space flights planned in a year timeframe, and a ticket for a few minutes of microgravity costs 250 thousand USD.

Update: Due to supply chain, staffing problems, and refurbishment, Virgin Galactic has halted suborbital flights until mid-2024. Tickets now cost 450 thousand USD.
After an engine failure in September 2022, followed by a 15-month hiatus, Blue Origin resumed flights in December 2023. They plan to return to human missions “soon”.

Visiting the International Space Station

Ax-1 is a collaboration project between SpaceX and Axiom Space, as the first all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. The space tourists heading to ISS in 2022 with Dragon 2 are paying 55 million dollars for their nine-day retreat each. The plan is to organize ISS trips every six months.

Update: After the first Axiom Mission in April 2022, there was another one in May 2023, and AX-3 in January 2024.

2023

The trip around the Moon

After his stay at the ISS in December 2021, Yusaku Maezawa continues his space odyssey with #dearMoon mission. He invited eight strangers to join him on a round trip to the Moon.

There would be no touching the lunar surface. The team would board the Starship spacecraft for this circumlunar trip, and the entire Moon travel cost will be paid by the billionaire.

Update: DearMoon project has been delayed until the spaceship completes development.

Spacewalk

Space Adventures resume flying to ISS on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft again. Two private astronauts can join the trip to outer space in 2023, and one can complete a spacewalk. The price for this unique experience is not disclosed.

The same company also plans to circle around the Moon in 2023, with Deep Space Expedition Alpha. One of the two available seats was supposedly sold for 150 million USD.

Update: Since being announced in 2005, the Moon mission has been postponed many times, with no clear timeline at the moment.

2024

First private space station

Before ISS retires in 2031 and crashes back to Earth, Axiom Space plans to continue adding modules to its Axiom Segment, and eventually transform it into the world’s first commercial space station.

Modules linked to the ISS would be able to welcome 16 people who would have egg-like cabins with large windows offering fantastic views of Earth.

In the following years, more space stations could populate the low Earth’s orbit. Orbital Reef by Blue Origin and Sierra Space, Starlab Space Station by Nanoracks, and the luxury orbital module by Russian Roscosmos are just some of the announced replacements for the ISS.

The balloon ride to space

The Spaceship Neptune by Space Perspective promises to take you to space on a balloon-based system.

The trip in a capsule dangling from a high-altitude balloon would last six hours. The space travel tickets in this arrangement cost 125 thousand USD.

2027

First space hotel

The Orbital Assembly Corporation has the world’s first luxury space hotel as its flagship project. The futuristic Voyager Station would be based on a gravity ring, the first artificial gravity platform.

The rotating wheel hotel plans to accommodate 280 guests and 112 crew members. The price of the 3.5-day stay is 5 million USD.

2117

Space travel to Mars

The ultimate space travel highlight in a hundred years could be the colonization of Mars. Moving to the Red Planet is just the last step of many preparatory space journeys.

The first manned mission to Mars is expected in the 2030s.

NASA has already started testing the Mars Dune Alpha, the habitat designed as our first living quarters on another planet.

Dubai announced the building of an entire Martian simulation city in 2022-2024. Mars Science City is a part of the Mars 2117 initiative that wants to colonize the new planet in the next century.

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This post was originally published on December 3rd, 2021, and was updated on February 5th, 2024.

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The post Fly Me to the Moon: Is Space Travel Worth Risking Life? appeared first on Pipeaway.

The start of 2024 was marked by three events that highlighted the benefits of airplane seat belts: a plane collision in Tokyo, Alaska Airlines plane losing a door plug, and the Netflix premiere of “Society of the Snow”

People sometimes resist systems that constrict their freedom of movement. Those who see fastening a seat belt as an ultimate punishment, probably on par with wearing an anti-COVID mask, may be missing the reasoning behind this safety procedure. Simply because flights are usually safe, and plane accidents are rare, it doesn’t mean we can diminish the seat belt as an essential safety device.

Personally, I am buckled up in a car even when there’s no police in sight, on a bus even when nobody instructs me to do so, and when flying, even when the plane seat belt sign is not on. I try to prevent negative surprises, and refuse to think about the supposed discomfort seat belt brings.

Especially on long flights, I don’t want to be caught off guard by a sudden shaking of the cabin disturbing my nap. Pro tip: if you plan to sleep on board, always buckle up above the blanket, or you’re risking being awakened by the cabin crew checking if everyone is securely tucked in for a potential (!) event of turbulence.

The year 2024 started with three events that highlighted the undeniable benefits of the use of seat belts. Plane collision in Tokyo, Alaska Airlines‘ mid-flight accident in Portland, and Netflix premiere of “Society of the Snow”, all provided valuable lessons in seat belt safety.

Learn why you should wear a plane seat belt whenever seated!

This article may drop a few spoilers for "Society of the Snow", so keep that in mind if you still plan to see the movie.

Aircraft seat belt history

The first aircraft seat belt was invented in 1911. The US Army General Benjamin D. Foulois came up with a safety strap that would prevent military pilots from being thrown out of the plane.

While his seat belt wasn’t really effective in a plane crash, the aviation world embraced the idea, and aircraft seat belts and harnesses became a standard feature of warplanes.

Post-World War I, civil planes started adopting seat belts too, and in 1926, the USA issued its first seat belt regulations. Two years later, airplane seat belts became mandatory plane equipment, but their use by passengers was still optional.

Those early seat belts were just a protection against basic turbulence. It wasn’t before the late 1940s that seat belt manufacturers started developing enhanced, durable seat belts that could help against injuries, too.

However, the public of the 1950s was a tough crowd. Disinformation about seat belts was far more influential than science. Sensationalist reporting from the plane crash sites had folks convinced that airplane seat belts could trap you in a potentially burning seat, or even directly be a cause of death in the event of a crash.

The Federal Aviation Regulations, with a mandatory requirement of wearing a plane seat belt during takeoff and landing, were codified in 1972. Refusing to fasten a seat belt may cost you a fine of $10,000.

If you are afraid that you would be too big for a plane seat belt, consider purchasing a seat belt extender. Learn more about your options if you think you're too fat to fly. 

How airplane seat belt can save your life?

1. Surviving taxiing, takeoff, and landing

The moments of takeoff and landing are considered the most critical phases of every flight. They involve rapid changes in speed and altitude. According to IATA, 53% of accidents in commercial civil aviation between 2005 and 2023 happened during landing.

Securely fastened seat belts ensure that passengers are protected from unexpected events such as a sudden stop or a quick ascent/descent.

There is another seemingly routine flight operation when wearing an airplane seat belt is also mandatory, and that is during the taxiing of the aircraft.

Preparing the plane for departure from a runway, or parking the plane after it landed, should not be regarded blithely. These movements may seem minor, but they can still lead to injuries. Even when you hear the plane stopping, always stay securely fastened until the plane seat belt sign has been switched off.

If you need proof of how tricky it can be to navigate at the place where taxiing, takeoff, and landing intertwine, just look at what happened in Tokyo, Japan, on the 2nd of January, 2024. Japan Airlines Flight 516 from Sapporo was landing at Haneda Airport, where a coastguard plane was taxiing toward the runway. The collision was fatal for the crew of this smaller plane, while everyone on JAL 516 survived the evacuation from the burning aircraft, with only one passenger ending up with some bruises.

Applying a plane seat belt and following the safety protocols proved crucial in not turning the Tokyo accident into an even greater tragedy.

In trains, there are no seat belts. But there are still ways to improve your chances of surviving in a train crash!

2. Preventing unexpected skydiving

Once the aircraft is airborne, you typically expect the airplane seat belt sign sound to mark the freedom of movement, ushering an anticipated stampede to the bathrooms. But the potential perils of a flight may not go away by simply leaving the ground.

On January 5th, 2024, Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 experienced a bizarre accident during the ascent. A defective door plug next to seat 26A fell off the plane, opening up a hole that sucked out seat headrests, a seatback cushion, a tray table, two mobile phones, and even a young passenger’s T-shirt from the depressurized cabin.

The pilot of Boeing 737 Max was forced to perform an emergency landing back at Portland Aiport, Oregon, a mere 20 minutes after takeoff.

Meanwhile, in row 25, a mother was holding her now shirtless son from being ejected from the plane. Luckily, no one was sitting in the two adjoining seats closest to the gaping hole. Miraculously, the door blowout drama left the 177 people on board with no major injuries.

The lesson is obvious: While one of the cell phones was allegedly found undamaged, no passenger would survive such a fall from a 4,900-meter height.

This was a sudden and never-before-experienced accident, and plane seat belts proved to be the first line of defense against passengers being thrown about and out of the cabin. With due respect to mothers.

3. Not getting hurt in turbulence

Air turbulence is a common occurrence in the skies and can range from mild bumps to more severe jolts. Sudden changes in altitude or unexpected maneuvers may occur throughout the flight, for various reasons. And these won’t always come with a courteous announcement over the intercom.

Weather conditions can change in a matter of seconds, transforming your flight into a roller coaster ride. Clear-air turbulence (CAT) is a type of turbulence that occurs without any visual cues, such as clouds, making it challenging for pilots to predict. This unseen threat can jolt the aircraft unexpectedly.

For a visual sneak peek into the unpredictability of turbulence, you need not look further than the first 15 minutes of “Society of the Snow”, Juan Antonio Bayona‘s drama that premiered on Netflix on January 4th, 2024.

Based on a true story of Air Force Flight 571 in 1972, this survival movie follows a rugby team traveling from Montevideo, Uruguay, to Santiago, Chile.

In the Andes mountain range, unanticipated turbulences start, and a cabin attendant explains the “hungry shark”: “The warm winds from Argentina collide with the cold mountain air, creating a suction effect.” Numa Turcatti, the narrator character, dismisses the theory as a joke.

Only after the second stronger shake did we hear the captain’s announcement: “Passengers, please fasten your seat belts.”

A third turbulence strike lifts the co-pilot in the air, so that he hits the ceiling of the cabin, exposing the true force turbulence can make. Sadly, this isn’t an exaggerated movie effect, but an event that could happen on any flight.

When unforeseen turbulence happens, an airplane seat belt acts as a reliable safeguard, minimizing the impact of forces on your body and preventing you from being lifted off your seat.

That’s why wearing your seat belt at all times, even when the seat belt sign is off, provides continuous protection against the unpredictable nature of air turbulence and lowers the risk of head injuries and other trauma that can occur during sudden movements.

Despite what "Society of the Snow" may suggest, sitting in the back of the plane has its benefits. The last row is my preferred row in the entire plane!

4. Not dying in a plane crash

When the situation requires an emergency landing or, beyond the pilot’s choices, an impact becomes unavoidable, a plane crash is an unwanted outcome. Not everyone survives the unplanned encounter with the ground.

But as “Society of the Snow” also shows, there’s more we can do to maximize our chances than just gripping armrests for dear life and saying final prayers.

Those who survived the 1972 plane crash in the Andes were those who fastened their seat belts (and had a sprinkle of good luck on the side, of course).

After the plane finally stops gliding through the snow, we see a movie character in an upside-down position, unbuckling their airplane seat belt, and falling out of the seat. Still, this is a much gentler drop than the alternative fate of becoming a human projectile (and “Society of the Snow” shows this too).

The purpose of airport seat belts is to keep you firmly in the seat, preventing you from being tossed around the cabin, and giving you a fighting chance to brace yourself for impact. That could prevent serious injuries, but also make a difference between life and death.

Passengers of Flight 571 employed different strategies to get out of the Andes alive. Learn more about their plane crash survival lessons!

5. Respecting cabin crew authority matters

Before the plane crashes in “Society of the Snow”, one passenger, not understanding the gravity of the situation, pulls a prank by addressing the cabin via the PA system. “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. This is your Captain, General Carlos Páez“, he says. “Please buckle up so your bodies aren’t scattered across the Andes.”

While Páez survived the crash, his joke was prophetic. It got me thinking about the major differences in perception of the cabin crew authority five decades ago and today.

Of course, many things have changed since the time of the tragic Uruguayan flight. We don’t smoke in the planes anymore, we don’t play cards with the flight crew, or casually lounge wherever and however we want. And we don’t ignore the instruction to sit down and buckle up. Well, at least we shouldn’t.

I feel that putting on an airplane seat belt is more than a practical safety measure. It’s a power move establishing the authority of the cabin crew. It’s about following the commands even when we cannot fully understand the context. Blind obedience is a fundamental aspect of air travel safety; it fosters a culture of responsibility and respect for the rules.

The commitment to safety protocols is designed to protect passengers. Choosing not to wear an airplane seat belt disregards the established norms and places everyone at unnecessary risk. As a projectile, you are not just a danger to yourself, but also to other passengers. Also, if you get injured due to your anti-seat belt stance, you could drastically slow down the evacuation or even the assistance of the crew.

The cabin crew is trained to handle emergencies for a reason. Their instructions matter. We’ve seen that numerous times, and the successful evacuation at Tokyo airport, just moments before JAL 516 was completely swallowed by flames, shows how important that is.

Tokyo passengers survived the plane crash because they didn't delay the evacuation by retrieving their hand luggage. Read why that is essential for everyone's survival!

Plane seat belt instructions

Fastening and removing a plane seat belt is a straightforward process that the cabin crew explains before every flight. But if you are a first-time flier, you might want to read the exact instructions on how to use seat belts on a plane.

How to put airplane seat belt

1. Locate the two parts of the seat belt on each side of your seat, near the hip area. They may be tucked into the seat or hanging from the side.
2. Take both ends of the seat belt and insert the metal tongue into the buckle until you hear or feel a click.
3. Once the seat belt is fastened, adjust the length to ensure a snug fit. The seat belt should be low across your hips, touching the tops of your thighs, and should not be twisted. Give the belt a gentle tug to make sure it’s securely latched.
4. Leave it fastened, even when the seat belt sign is off.

How to unbuckle an airplane seat belt

1. Locate the seat belt buckle, typically near the hip area on the side of your seat.
2. Use your fingers to lift and release the latch on the buckle. The click will indicate successful unbuckling.
3. Separate the two ends of the seat belt by pulling them apart.
4. Keep the seat belt accessible and neatly stowed within reach. If you’re planning to rest or sleep, you can leave it loosely fastened for convenience in case you need to secure it quickly.

If you have an older child who sits in their own seat, but you're afraid that your kid would not be fully protected by larger seat belts, consider purchasing this portable safety harness, and travel with peace of mind!

Plane seat belt safety – Conclusion

Some passengers may be almost allergic to the airplane seat belt announcement. They don’t find it a coincidence that the plane seat belt light is placed just next to the sign forbidding smoking, another no-discussion policy on board the aircraft. As soon as that unmistakable airplane seat belt tone warns the cabin, these passengers start wiggling, rolling their eyes, and sometimes even just pretending they buckle up.

During turbulence, unexpected events, or emergencies, a plane seat belt is a protector against potential harm and should be prioritized as routine

I’m not sure if people with strong views on airplane seat belts as enemies of freedom of movement can be convinced otherwise.

But the real-life examples, from 1972 to 2024, show that dismissing the importance of strapping in during a flight can lead to avoidable tragic consequences.

Whether facing turbulence, unexpected events, or emergencies, a plane seat belt is a protector against potential harm and should be prioritized as routine, such as stashing personal belongings in the overhead compartment.

By transforming seat belt use into a habit, you’re upping your chances for a longer and healthier life, without starring in a YouTube video or becoming an inspiration for a series of documentary and feature films on flight disasters.

Strapping in should be a non-negotiable habit for every air traveler. It is not only a mandatory, law-required instruction whenever the airplane seat belt light is on. Fastening a seat belt on a plane is a simple act with a significant impact.

Do you keep your plane seat belt on even if the sign is not illuminated?
Let us know in the comments, and pin this article for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The images in this article have been sourced through Wikimedia, Freepik, and other authors and public domains.

In the order of appearance, the credits are as follows:
Cartoon characters (cover and pin image) - Ivan Kralj, created with Dall-e
Benjamin Foulois - Library of Congress
Man buckling up - DCStudio, Freepik 
Red seat belt - Daniel Schwen, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Seat belt instructions card - Ivan Kralj

The post Plane Seat Belt: Safety Behind Buckling Up appeared first on Pipeaway.

Armrest wrestling, overflowing belly, protruding legs… How to handle sitting next to an obese person on a plane?

Sitting next to an obese person on a plane can cause discomfort and frustration. Nobody teaches us how to deal with these circumstances, and the least we want to do is enter into conflicts that would kick one or both participants off a plane. Disruptive passengers are harder to fly with than those who have extra kilograms.

I experienced these awkward scenarios myself – having a feeling that the armrest is just not enough of a barrier to secure your personal space is truly yours. Besides someone’s belly overflowing into your assigned seat, you could also experience other body parts, such as arms or legs, protruding over. Some passengers can object to unpleasant warmth and sweat coming from unwanted body contact.

Now, seating a fat person next to a skinny person may somehow work out, but if the airline’s system has put an average or a larger passenger next to an even larger one, it’s calling for trouble.

Today, we’ll explore practical tips and etiquette when navigating this challenge. We will learn how to avoid sitting next to a fat person on a plane, and how to deal with it if it happens anyway.

Do you dream of an airline career but you are concerned about your body mass index? Here's how you can become a plus-size flight attendant!

Sitting next to an obese person on a plane – Reddit experiences

Online communities such as Reddit are a treasure trove of testimonies that show how regular people answer our ultimate question – what to do when seated next to a fat person on a plane?

One passenger recounted: “On a recent flight I was seated next to a really big guy. For added detail, he needed a seatbelt extender and when the armrest was down, you couldn’t even see it… He took up half the seat I was in.” Fortunately, luck was on their side as the flight wasn’t full, and the flight attendant orchestrated a seat swap.

In another case, there were no spare seats, and a passenger, whose in-flight neighbor was seeping into a third of his seat, had to make a tough choice: cope with a 5-hour-long flight being squeezed, or a guilt trip for requesting a deboarding intervention. This squished passenger ended up proposing a controversial financial remedy: “Look, I’ll put up with this if you give me $150 – that’s half the cost of this flight and that would compensate me enough for the circumstances.” The larger passenger accepted the offer, but certain observers called this an a**hole move.

Then again, not saying anything about the situation may not bring you to the meditative state of mind either, as this user suggested: “I had to sit 6 hours with my body contorted, and he was still touching me. When I got off that flight, my back was killing me (for weeks, I was in pain). But my suit jacket and shirt were soaked with this guy’s sweat. Tried to dry clean it twice and couldn’t get the stench out. I had to trash that suit. Sorry, overweight people, it’s your responsibility to get two seats and not jeopardize other people’s health.”

Check out how a plus-size model confronted a fellow passenger for fat-shaming!

How to avoid sitting next to a fat person on a plane?

“How to avoid sitting next to a passenger of size?” is a million-dollar question. Besides just counting on good luck that a broken game of musical chairs will skip us, there are a few methods that could ensure against or at least minimize the chances of armrest wrestling on our flight.

1. Consider off-peak travel times

Flights during off-peak hours, days, or even seasons might have fewer passengers, thus reducing the chances of ending up in an uncomfortable situation of a crowded, fully booked plane.

If your schedule allows it, off-peak flights will provide more flexibility in seat selection, and more options if changing the seat becomes a need.

2. Select a preferred seat

While this method doesn’t completely control your neighborhood (as other passengers can choose their preferred seat too), there are statistically better seats to pick, if space is your major criterion.

It may seem obvious, but you should avoid the middle seat at all costs. It would put you in between two passengers, so the chances of having a person of size on either side are doubled.

In very unfortunate circumstances, you could even find yourself ham-pressed in a sandwich, like a former cabin crew member who endured the most uncomfortable five hours of his life last year: “I had to fly between two very overweight (obese probably) passengers, both of them took parts of my seat. I spoke with a member of the cabin crew but they simply said that the plane was full so whatever, they offered me a free meal.”

No free meal will sort out your discomfort (if you even manage to open a tray table in such a squeeze), so always aim for either a window or aisle seat.

Aisle seat is a slightly better choice, as it puts a passenger on one of your sides, but not a wall on the other. That breathing space could make all the difference when it comes to the perceived pleasure of the journey.

3. Upgrade your seat

If your budget allows it, consider upgrading to a premium cabin or selecting a seat with more legroom.

Normally, some regular seating configurations offer more space or convenience, such as exit rows, seats near the front of the plane (bulkhead rows), or occasionally even seats in the back of the plane (the so-called taper seats, where three-seat rows change to two-seat rows).

Of course, premium seats provide the most comfort in economy, reducing the likelihood of feeling cramped.

If your wish for more space is inversely proportional to your wish to keep money in your pocket, splurge on wider seats in business or first class. You might never come back to the economy cabin!

4. Check-in among the last passengers

Checking in among the last passengers is the second best thing to arriving early for seat selection. If you’re among the last passengers to check in, you can maximize your chances of choosing the best seat between the available options (of course, if the flight is not sold out).

If your seat was pre-assigned, you can communicate with airline staff at check-in or the gate, if they’re able to assist with moving you to a less crowded area of the plane.

5. Board among the last passengers

Even if you have been assigned an aisle seat in a nominally fully booked plane, not everything is lost. Board the aircraft among the last passengers!

The truth is some passengers never make it to their flights (that’s what airlines are counting on when they do overbookings), and you may find entire rows empty.

I often do last-minute boarding myself. If I find a better seat situation on the way to my assigned seat, I just park myself there, without the need to ask to switch seats.

If you are a passenger of size, take stress out of your flight experience, and consider ordering a seatbelt extender. This product fits most airlines. Find more advice for flying while fat here!

What to do if an obese person sits next to you on a plane?

Sitting next to an obese person on a flight is not something we can truly control. We don’t get to choose people sitting next to us unless they are members of our travel group. What can we then resort to, if the situation is hard to avoid?

Before resorting to elbow jabs, embarrassing the plus-size passenger in front of everyone, extorting money from them, farting, getting drunk to induce a comma, or even calling the police on them for stealing your space (Reddit users come up with a variety of creative solutions), there are better ways to handle the seating situation with sensitivity and respect.

So, what to do if a fat person sits next to you on a plane? Here’s your game plan!

1. Stay positive

The first step in addressing any situation is to approach it with a positive attitude, and a smile.

You’d be surprised how turning complete strangers into possible friends can shift your perspective. Start by introducing yourself and exchanging some small talk.

Maybe the passenger’s size becomes secondary when you find out that you share the same interests and views on life. You never know, it could be the most entertaining and inspiring flight time of your life. Or would you prefer being bored by a skinny person annoying you with neverending stories that would kill a zombie?

Even if you don’t find a friend for life, getting to know someone you share space with will release some of the frustration. Keep an open mind before you label the situation as problematic. Avoid making assumptions or passing judgment based on appearance alone. Instead, employ empathy and mindfulness.

2. Kindly address your concerns

Once you’ve established a friendly atmosphere, it is easier to address the elephant in the cabin. Well, don’t do it with these words! You should express your concerns respectfully and gracefully.

If you feel your seatmate’s weight is encroaching on your personal space, politely ask if they could adjust their position slightly. Your request can be as simple as saying: “Excuse me, would you mind shifting to the side a bit?”

Check if a mutually agreed solution can be reached, such as adjusting the armrest, alternating its use between you two, reclining seats, or even lifting the aisle armrest entirely (if that’s where the larger passenger is sitting) – the release button is usually on the underside of the back of the armrest.

Embrace patience, and offer assistance if needed.

3. Speak to the flight crew

If diplomacy fails and you encounter difficulties in ensuring a comfortable seating arrangement, don’t hesitate to reach out to the cabin crew. They are trained to handle such situations and can guide potential solutions to make the journey enjoyable for all passengers.

To avoid the embarrassment of your seatmate, who is probably already sharing some of the discomfort, the best way is to approach a flight attendant discreetly in the galley. Explain the situation, say that you cannot safely fit in your seat, and ask if there are other available areas you could move to.

Bear in mind that the plane might be full, so if you think you will not be able to endure the situation for the entire length of the flight, act immediately! Raise the issue with the crew before the flight departs or plane doors close.

You should be aware that a passenger who cannot fit in their seat could either have to buy an additional seat or upgrade (if there are such options available) or deplane to get a rescheduled flight. That may not be the happiest solution for that person.

If the airline cannot guarantee you a seat space you purchased, you can try to volunteer yourself for a later flight. Whatever the solution, you might at least get some kind of compensation for the discomfort, possibly a flight voucher.

4. Bring entertainment

If you still feel stuck next to a fat person on your flight, just – don’t. Nagging will exhaust you if there’s no better solution available. Reserve your grumbling for a complaint letter you can address to the airline later, and try to make the best out of the situation you’re in.

To distract yourself, bring along noise-canceling headphones, a captivating book, or a tablet loaded with your favorite movies and shows. Immersing yourself in entertainment and engaging in activities you like will help shift your focus, alleviate the discomfort, and make your flight more enjoyable.

If you still struggle with diverting your attention, try practicing self-compassion. Focus on maintaining your composure and treating your neighbor with respect and dignity. Remember that your actions reflect on your character, so choose to be understanding and considerate.

5. Get a seat divider

When it seems that nothing else works, there is an actual product you can consider purchasing. It’s called a portable airplane seat divider.

The Create-A-Space partition was invented with the exact intention of preventing someone from spilling into your zone. When fixed on an armrest, this nifty contraption eliminates hip and elbow contact with the person sitting next to you.

Your personal shield against body contact is a compact product, the size of a book, and it fits easily in your hand luggage.

Its availability is sometimes limited, but if you want to defend the full width of your seat against your neighbors’ invasion, order it here.

What to do when a fat person sits next to you on an airplane – Conclusion

Passengers with high body mass are still passengers. All of us have the right to travel comfortably, and that includes the passengers with a larger build.

When they spread to the next seat, overweight passengers are usually aware of the situation. Most of the time, they will keep their arms folded, trying to make themselves smaller.

Sitting next to a fat person on a plane can present a challenge, but sometimes there are easy solutions without the need for heavyweight vocabulary

As armrests become negotiation zones, we might be tempted to shout: “Just buy another seat!” But we don’t know about our seatmate’s financial situation or even about the purpose of their trip. It’s easy to jump to conclusions and demand equality in a world that is not designed for equals. Employing tact and compassion for each individual is as important as finding ways to make yourself comfortable.

Sitting next to a fat person on a plane can present physical and emotional challenges. But even when it seems the situation is the ultimate test of our contortionist skills, we should arm ourselves with empathy, maybe some humor, and a willingness to look for solutions. Sometimes, these solutions are ready-made and available, without the need to use the heavy-words artillery.

Courtesy and understanding play a crucial role in ensuring a pleasant journey for everyone on board.

By implementing tips and strategies from this article, such as choosing the right seat, asking flight attendants for assistance, and treating your fellow travelers with dignity, you can enhance both your comfort and your flight experience. Not less importantly, you can also contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate travel environment.

Were you ever seated next to a larger passenger? 
Share your experience in the comments, and pin this article for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

All AI images in this article were created by Ivan Kralj via DALL-E.

The post Space Invasion: What to Do When Seated Next to a Fat Person on a Plane? appeared first on Pipeaway.

Nothing says “Let’s save the planet” like putting a fossil fuel boss in charge of a conference dedicated to combating climate change

The Conference of the Parties, now COP28 (the digits counting the generous number of years since we acknowledged the severity of the issue), is the UN‘s annual convention on climate change. It brings political heads together, expecting them to tackle the issues of greenhouse gas emissions, and evaluate our overall progress in the global survival attempt.

This year hosted by Dubai, the oil-rich Arab emirate, and presided over by Sultan Al Jaber, the CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), the climate conference tries to keep a straight face while talking about achieving targets set by the Paris Agreement  (COP21) that was, back in 2015, imagining a “sustainable low carbon future”.

Nothing says “Let’s save the planet” like putting a fossil fuel boss in charge of a conference dedicated to combating climate change. On this same Earth that strives for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, Al Jaber’s appointment as COP president was a controversy bordering mockery. It was revealed that ADNOC was in a position to monitor summit office e-mails, that they planned to use the event to strike new oil and gas deals, and that Al Jaber was questioning climate science, claiming that phase-out of fossil fuels would take us “back into caves”.

Manon Aubry, a French member of the European Parliament, called out the UN’s decision to empower Al Jaber as scandalous, likening it to “having a tobacco multinational overseeing the internal work of the World Health Organization“. Twitter activists compared him with “Count Dracula in charge at the Blood Bank”.

We are not cockroaches

Unless you’ve been living under a rock in the last decades, you know that our survival on this planet is seriously questionable. Well, that’s not entirely true. The endangered Australian cockroach Panesthia lata, previously thought extinct, has been literally hiding under a rock for over eight decades before being proclaimed resurrected.

But we are not cockroaches. Threatened with climate change, we cannot just cross our fingers for a surprise miracle. Playing hide-and-seek on this third rock from the Sun will not make our self-inflicted mess magically disappear.

Making political choices that involve appointing some of the architects of our climate catastrophe as leading voices in solving it is like asking a fox to babysit the chickens. It says that we might have either given in or given up. The reputation of our seriousness toward solving the issues is jeopardized. Is it all just a spectacle?

You’d think by 2023, we’d have moved past the era of empty paroles and symbolic gestures. But here we are, sending our leaders to yet another greenwashing gala, this time to the Arabian Desert, so they could almost literally bury their heads among the sandcastles.

One of the ways we produce irreversible damage to life on this planet is plastic pollution. Read how the travel industry fights against it!

“We belong to the Earth”, said the ostrich king

It was King Charles, the British monarch, who delivered an opening speech at this Ostrich Summit, with messages we would expect to be written for a speaker as privileged as him.

“I pray with all my heart that COP28 will be another critical turning point towards genuine transformational action at a time when, already, as scientists have been warning for so long, we are seeing alarming tipping points being reached. (…) As I have tried to say on many occasions, unless we rapidly repair and restore nature’s unique economy, based on harmony and balance, which is our ultimate sustainer, our own economy and survivability will be imperiled. (…) After all, ladies and gentlemen, in 2050 our grandchildren won’t be asking what we said, they will be living with the consequences of what we did or didn’t do.”

As King Charles was delivering his environmental TED Talk about “an unmissable opportunity to keep our common hope alive”, urging his colleagues to meet this opportunity with a true sense of the emergency, and with a commitment to practical action, he conveniently forgot to mention that his Royal Highness, the UK’s prime minister, and the foreign secretary all took separate private planes to fly to Dubai. Apparently, “practical action” doesn’t include carpooling.

Oxfam, the British organization focusing on the alleviation of global poverty, already calculated that the richest 1% of the world generates as much pollution as two-thirds of humanity. Billionaires living their lives like King Charles will cause 1.3 million heat-related excess deaths before 2030.

It is estimated that a private jet joyriding from London to Dubai is 10 times more polluting than a commercial plane. And yet, the British political elite took not one, not two, but three of these aerial polluters for their journey to the summit.

“The Earth does not belong to us, we belong to the Earth”, said the king of ostriches in his opening address, still coughing out some sand.

Dear King Charles, if you're reading this, you'll be glad to know that there are 10 simple ways to reduce your carbon footprint. And here's where to find the cheapest commercial flights!

Climate action cannot wait

King Charles who accepted to be the opening mascot of the summit is just one of the hundreds of political heads landing at Dubai airport in private jets, the most polluting mode of travel.

“When compared against the average annual carbon footprint per person of 4.7 tonnes in 2019, some private jets release two tonnes of CO2 per hour shared amongst typically very few passengers. Private jets therefore embody a striking example of carbon inequality in which the most privileged contribute significantly to climate change whilst the impacts are often experienced by those least privileged”, says the study that calculated the effects of 315 private flights during COP27 in 2022, when political ostriches got a taste of Egyptian sands.

Research led by Carole Roberts calculated carbon emissions of various transport options between London and Dubai, for COP28. (Not only) British political elite chose the most polluting way to get to the climate conference.

It’s 2023, and not everyone wants to repeat the obvious mistakes. Nepal‘s prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal flew to Dubai on a commercial plane, with Nepal Airlines. But before you applaud him, hear this: the flight left Kathmandu two hours before the schedule, leaving 31 not-very-important passengers behind. Nobody knows why the delegation was in such a hurry that the official departure had to be abruptly changed, but it seems their earlier presence in Dubai was of utmost importance. In their defense, it is a known fact that climate action cannot wait.

The airline claims it accommodated the stranded Nepalese passengers in hotels, and flew them to Dubai on alternative flights. As if climate cares.

To prove that we could think differently about long-distance travel, one British family embarked on a four-month-long journey to Australia. Read their inspiring no-fly story!

Charade of Swifties

With twice as many attendees when compared to that polluting Egypt conference (oh, how we learn!), COP28 prepares to leave the highest carbon footprint in history, making even seasoned air traffic controllers break into a cold sweat. Despite Dubai being the home to one of the world’s most connected airports, many world leaders decided to grace the summit with their bountiful contribution to climate change by arriving in private jets.

Whether they started from Japan, Nigeria, or Switzerland, these very important jet-setters flocked to the climate conference as if they were Taylor Swift herself. In 2022, the pop star was crowned the greatest celebrity CO2 polluter, emitting 1,184.8 times more gas than the average person. But the fresh billionaire at least doesn’t pretend that she is circling the planet in her private jet to save it.

Swift is not giving speeches where she would, like seriously concerned King Charles, pledge happily-ever-after if we all just hold hands: “So if we act together to safeguard our precious planet, the welfare of all our people will surely follow.”

One political leader refused to participate in the grand charade. Hilda Heine, the former president of the Marshall Islands, a country acutely threatened by rising sea levels, resigned from the position of COP28 advisor. She wasn’t interested in playing a role in the carbon carnival, where the UAE allegedly planned to use the conference to secure new oil and gas deals. Heine called it “deeply disappointing” and undermining “the integrity of the COP presidency and the process as a whole”.

Do you think that King Charles' messages could make it to the list of the best Save Earth quotes?

Good COP, bad COP

We’ve grown accustomed to commercial companies marketing their products and brands through a greenwashing lens. From Coca-Cola and McDonald’s to Walmart and H&M, the economic giants have learned that trends should be exploited. So if consumers demand green, that’s exactly where the deception would be targeted.

“The moment is critical”, their crowned heads will mutter once again while grinding sand between their teeth

But we weren’t anticipating that climate conferences, those grand assemblies of political promises, would become the latest runway for greenwashing couture. COP28, the largest climate summit in history, smells of a smokescreen, with political heads trying to convince us that they’re doing more for the environment than what our eyes can clearly see.

“The moment is critical”, their crowned heads will mutter once again while grinding sand between their teeth, and swallowing more and more letters.

With now 2 million species threatened by extinction, we know at least one species that doesn’t seem to be endangered at all. These political cockroaches will never tell you the real truth: “The moment is hypocritical.”

What do you think about this climate summit? Are you an optimist?
Comment below and pin this article for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The post Unearthing the Problems at COP28: Heads of Nations Meet in the Arabian Desert appeared first on Pipeaway.

Airport transfer service ensures you’ll have a red-carpet welcome wherever your adventures whisk you away

Now, I’ll confess… With a frugal state of mind, I once viewed airport transfers as an extravagant splurge, a luxurious detour from the larger quantity of budget-centric adventures. Even if I experienced the comfort of airport transfers in countries such as Cambodia or Indonesia (where hotels may have a custom of picking up their guests and bringing them straight to the location), when self-organizing, I’d always try to find the cheapest ride to the airport – typically a public transport.

Until, well, I learned my lesson. It should’ve been a short domestic flight in the Philippines, leaving Puerto Princesa at 7:45 p.m., and arriving in Manila at 9:15 p.m. Even if I knew that it’s better to pre-arrange an airport transfer when traveling in an unknown country at night (for instance, when I had to land in Ethiopia at 1 past midnight a year before, I knew it wouldn’t be smart to wonder around Addis Ababa at that hour, so I booked a pick-up), I wasn’t counting on the possibility that the Manila flight would be delayed.

We arrived closer to midnight, at what seemed to be a chaotic airport, with a sea of frazzled passengers and hour-long queues for the taxis, the only way out. I booked Grab (the Asian cousin of Uber) and ended up in a vehicle where I was yelled at, and practically abducted. Only because an alert cop stopped the car before we left the airport, I managed to escape. I tell the details of this story in the collection of my biggest travel WTF moments, but the point is: I wished I had pre-booked an airport transfer service in Manila that night.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits and the essential considerations of choosing and using the airport transfer service. To simplify your travel experience, there’s also a curated list of the world’s top airport transfers, ensuring you’ll have a red-carpet welcome wherever your adventures whisk you away. So sit back and relax (as if you’ve just been picked up by an airport limo), and let’s dive in!

What is an airport transfer service?

An airport transfer service is defined as a pre-booked transportation service that facilitates the movement of passengers and their luggage between an airport and their chosen destination (hotel, home, business location, another airport, another town, practically any place connected by road).

Booking an airport transfer service is like renting a car that comes with a bonus – a professional driver behind the wheel.

This specialized mode of transportation is not a one-way street. Whether you need a pick-up in the heart of the city, and a drop-off at the airport, or vice versa, airport transfer service typically means providing convenient door-to-door transportation.

There are two main types of airport transfer services (also known as airport runs).

The shared airport transfer service takes more passengers on board and makes multiple stops along the way. It takes a tad longer, but it is a great option for budget-minded travelers.

On the other hand, the private airport transfer service (that we focus on in this article) is perfect if you want to be taken directly to your destination and have a more personalized experience.

6 benefits of using airport transfer service

Airport transfer services come with a lot of benefits, which makes them a preferred choice for many travelers. Here are some key reasons why passengers choose to book the airport transfer service!

1. It reduces stress.

Why let the joy of arriving at your final destination be marred by questions like “How often does the airport shuttle come?” or “How much are airport taxis?”! Airport transfer services provide a convenient and hassle-free journey, eliminating the need to drive and search for the parking spot, battle complex public transport puzzles, endure the agony of eternal taxi lines (looking at you, Manila), or worry about the entire transfer logistics. Knowing that airport transportation is pre-arranged and will be waiting upon arrival (even if your flight is late) significantly reduces travel-related stress. You can just relax and enjoy a smooth pre-arranged ride.

2. It reduces the risk of being late.

Even if I had different experiences too (when I overslept my pre-scheduled taxi pick-up in Lithuania five years ago, the driver just left, leaving me in a frantic attempt to reach the airport before my flight’s departure), I’m still certain that pre-booked airport chauffeur service reduces risks of being late in cases when we miss the alarm. Instead of just relying on public transport or good luck to save the day, having someone knocking on our door sooner is much more reassuring. Unlike that Vilnius taxi that ghosted me, reputable airport transfer services are known for their punctuality and reliability. Professional drivers, who are well-versed in navigating optimal local routes in different traffic conditions, are committed to ensuring passengers reach their destination on time (unlike many taxis that could drive you around just to boost their meter).

3. It is tailored to you.

Instead of just relying on the hope that, for instance, larger vehicles will be available at the time we hail them, the pre-booked airport transfer service can cater to our specific needs. Whether you travel with a family or in a group, need a child seat, a bit more space for your wheelchair, or circus-sized luggage, there is a vehicle in the fleet customized for every preference, from sedans to vans.

4. It provides comfort.

Airport transfer services usually provide a higher level of comfort compared to other transportation options. Instead of dragging your suitcase through the underground or being condemned to the noise of a crowded public bus, with airport transfer service, passengers can enjoy a private and relaxed journey, especially if they opt for luxury or premium vehicle options. You can count on a clean and well-maintained car, with a professional and courteous driver.

5. It is safe.

Airport transfer services prioritize passenger security. Most companies vet their licensed drivers, removing the taxi roulette that comes with the first available cab or Uber out of the equation. Plus, the vehicles used by airport transfer service companies undergo regular maintenance check-ups, ensuring a safe and secure journey.

6. It is fare play.

Let’s be real: nowadays, an affordable airport taxi is practically an oxymoron. Transparent and fixed pricing is a significant advantage of airport transport services. Passengers know the cost of their airport transportation upfront, avoiding surprises, worries about having an adequate amount of money in local currency, or even awkward haggling over the fare, which can occur in randomly rented taxi vehicles.

How do I schedule an airport ride?

Scheduling an airport ride can vary depending on the airport transfer service you choose. However, the process is generally straightforward and often involves the following steps:

• Visit the service’s website or a mobile app (do this well in advance, especially when traveling in peak times).
• Create an account if necessary (usually providing your name and contact details).
• Input your trip information, including the flight details, the airport in question, and your departure or destination address.
• Select the type of vehicle.
• Review the details of the booking and confirm the reservation.
• Receive a confirmation email or notification, typically with the vehicle’s details as well as the driver’s contact information.
• Track your ride (if the service offers this feature which allows you to monitor the location of your assigned vehicle).
• Get a pick-up at the agreed location (the driver will often arrive a few minutes before the scheduled time), and enjoy the stress-free ride to the airport.

The best airport transfer service providers

Whether you’re in Las Vegas, Singapore, Waikiki, or Cabo, you’ll find many reputable airport transfer service companies, well-regarded for their reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. However, their offer may vary, depending on your exact location and specific preferences, so try to check multiple options before settling for a favorite. Here are the top airport transfer services you should consider!

1. Kiwitaxi

Kiwitaxi is an online booking platform offering individual transfer services in 102 countries, and more than 500 airports. This brand promises fixed prices (no junk fees, hooray!), as well as experienced licensed drivers, and 24/7 customer support. Whether you need a Micro for two, or a 19-seater bus, you can book your transfer in just a few clicks.

This fall, Kiwitaxi’s hotspots are Antalya (Turkey), Phuket (Thailand), Dubai (UAE), Tenerife (Spain), Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt), Rome (Italy), and Paris (France).

Try it out!

2. HolidayTaxis

HolidayTaxis is an award-winning global ground transportation company that operates in over 21,000 destinations across 150 countries. With no hidden fees, the company offers a wide range of airport transfer options, from wheelchair-accessible vehicles to electric cars and even helicopters. You can even book your transfer on your travel day for last-minute travel plans.

Besides the UK, HolidayTaxis is also popular in places like Faro (Portugal), Cancun (Mexico), New York (USA), Dalaman (Turkey), Rhodes (Greece), and the sun-soaked coasts of Spain.

3. GetTransfer

GetTransfer is a booking service for transfers available in 101 countries, claiming to operate even in those where no other services are established yet. Unlike other companies, this airport transfer service provider doesn’t have fixed pricing. Instead, drivers are offering rides for each client request, promising the best airport transportation rates, or they’ll return the price difference if you find a similar offer elsewhere for less. That could be a great incentive for booking your transfer through them.

None of the GetTransfer cars are older than five years, and they also provide helicopter and airplane transfers. If they have to wait for you for an hour at the airport, they won’t charge you more.

4. Intui.Travel

Intui.Travel is a booking platform that covers 3,500 airports in 175 countries, guaranteeing the best local transport available. From shuttle buses starting at 3 euros to private car transfers available for 5 euros already, the company enables easy online booking for any need.

During the Black Friday promotion (until December 15, 2023), use the promo code BF5 for €5 off the bookings over €70, on this link. 

Intui.Travel’s most popular airport transfers are based in Turkey (Istanbul, Antalya), UAE (Dubai), Indonesia (Bali), Czech Republic (Prague), France (Paris, Marseille), and Portugal (Porto, Lisbon).

Try it out!

5. Omio

Omio is a platform that allows you to book over 1,000 transportation providers, not only airport transfers, but also tickets for trains, buses, planes, and ferries. Whether you’re in Europe, the USA, or Canada, the system lets you compare the transportation options, so you can find the perfect price for your transfer booking.

Among Omio’s most popular destinations are New York City, Miami, Munich, London, Amsterdam, Florence, Stockholm, Geneva, Brussels, and Valencia.

Try it out!

6. 12Go

Even if the company operates in more than 100 countries, 12Go is the booking platform to choose when looking for airport transfers in Asia and Oceania. It is also a good starting point when researching train, bus, ferry, and flight connections in this part of the world. Find your ground and water transfers via a single platform!

12Go’s most popular routes are in Southeast Asia, but also Japan, China, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Australia and New Zealand.

7. HSE Drive

If you’re on the French Riviera or in Monaco, HSE Drive is the crème de la crème of quality transfers for individual clients. Their high-end fleet is made exclusively of Mercedes-Benz cars, none older than four years. In case of need, even helicopter or plane transfers are available. Booking a private chauffeur on Côte d’Azur is possible in just a few clicks.

HSE Drive’s most popular rides are in Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Monaco, and Fréjus, and their drivers can accompany you to glamorous events such as the Cannes Festival, Monaco Grand Prix, or famous Yacht Shows. If you want to hop over to the ski resorts of the Southern Alps, even that dream will be taken care of.

Besides these specialized airport transfer service providers, there are easy ways to organize your transport through other platforms, especially if you like a one-stop-shop approach. For instance, if you're booking your accommodation via Booking.com, you can directly arrange your airport transfers here. Likewise, if you're booking your activities and attractions through Klook, airport transfers await you here.  

Key features to look for in an airport transfer service

Selecting the right airport transfer service is a crucial step in ensuring an enjoyable and seamless journey. From Dublin to Dubai, from Bangkok to Bangalore, airport transfer services may slightly differ, but things you should take into account when booking transfers rarely change.

To make an informed decision on which airport transfer service fits your needs the best, you should consider the following key factors!

• Vehicle and service type – What type of vehicle do you need? Do you want a shared or private transfer?
• Travel time – How long will it take to get to your destination?
• Price – Convenience may come at a cost, but just how much are you willing to spend on it? Get a few airport transfer quotes, and compare the prices before being sure you got the best deal. However, keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the most reliable or comfortable.
• Reputation – Choose a company with a good reputation. You can ask other travelers for recommendations, or read online reviews and testimonials to see what previous customers of a certain provider have to say. This will give you a better insight into the quality of service of the airport transfer company you are considering.
• Experience – When in doubt, go for a company with a longer experience in the airport transfer industry.
• Insurance – Make sure the company is insured, providing peace of mind for both you and your luggage.
• Additional services – Some airport transfer services go beyond the basics, offering amenities like Wi-Fi or bottled water. Consider these extras if you find them important.

Answering these questions will help you choose the most suitable airport transfer service for your specific needs and circumstances.

Tips for a seamless airport transfer experience

Now that you have chosen your airport transfer service, follow this advice for the best experience!

• Book your transfer in advance. This will guarantee your reservation and ensure that you get a vehicle and a driver.
• Provide your flight info. Even when not asked, sneak it into the additional information box. In case there are changes, and your phone is in flight mode, this will help the driver track your whereabouts and be there to meet you on time.
• Be on time yourself. This will help ensure that your transfer goes smoothly.
• Have your luggage ready. Help your driver load your bags quickly and efficiently.
• Confirm the destination address. Even if the driver should already know it, it’s good to double-check that you’re on the same page.
• Tip your driver. This is a nice gesture to show your appreciation for the service these valuable professionals provide.

Follow these tips, and your ride from the airport, whether you are at JFK or in Cancun, will be as smooth as butter.

How much is a good tip for an airport transfer service?

Tipping practices always vary on local customs and cultural norms. While tipping the chauffer of your airport transfer service may not be required (some operators may even slide gratuity or service fee into the total bill), rewarding the stellar execution is always a classy move.

With no strict rule for this very personal decision, a common guideline for tipping an airport transfer service suggests sprinkling around 10-20% of the total fare as a tip, reflecting your satisfaction with the driver and his/her assistance during the trip.

Airport transfer service guide – Conclusion

You’ve booked a cheap flight with a connection in the French capital only to realize your first landing is at Orly, and the next takeoff is at Charles de Gaulle? Don’t worry, you’re not the first person doubting whether you’ll make it between the two airports. In this Paris case, but also many others, organizing an airport transfer service is an easy solution. When the chaos at the airport in a foreign city feels overwhelming, there’s nothing as reassuring as having a driver meeting you with your nameplate.

Airport transfer service might cost a bit more than the budget alternatives, but it buys you comfort, convenience, and a high level of customer service

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience reigns supreme. You don’t need to navigate unfamiliar routes, look for parking spaces, beg a friend for a lift, or struggle to figure out where to buy a bus ticket. Airport transfers are a punctual and reliable mode of transportation you can simply book in advance, put your worries to rest, and secure peace of mind.

After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is Google-translating signposts and worrying about how to get from point A to point B. Airport transfer service can take the stress out of your travel plans.

Besides just eliminating the source of anxiety, the trustworthy airport transfer service operates 24/7, so you can rest assured that even if you have a late-night or crack-of-dawn flight, you won’t be left in a lurch, which can easily happen with on-demand ride-sharing options.

With regularly maintained vehicles and profi drivers that pass rigorous background checks, airport transfer service puts you in safe hands.

Sure, this transportation option might cost a bit more than the budget alternatives, but what you’re investing in is comfort, convenience, and a high level of customer service. While airport transfer service may not be essential, it undoubtedly upgrades your travel, and investing in it is often worth every penny.

It doesn’t matter whether you just want to flee London‘s Heathrow as fast as possible or reward yourself with a luxury limo service in Turkey, airport transfer service will make a significant difference in your travel experience. After all, you are a VIP.

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The post Airport Transfer Service: Why You Need One and How to Pick the Best appeared first on Pipeaway.

Humor is Ryanair’s marketing fuel. They’re the only airline that cracks jokes with their products

The two environmentalists had their brief moment of media fame, but O’Leary’s chilled response was nothing short of a masterclass in crisis communication. He ignored the protest against the low-cost carrier’s carbon footprint and insisted on his petition agenda. To make sure that he stays in charge of the narrative, he belittled the pie performance by casually licking cream off his fingers while declaring: “I love cream cakes, they’re my favorite.”

The real icing on the cake was delivered by Ryanair’s social media team. Their Twitter account, renowned for its unconventional communication style, shared a snapshot of their cream-coated boss and reported that passengers, thrilled with their new routes and “tasty low fares”, were celebrating with cake. Playing on the card of their budget-friendly prices, another tweet suggested that purchasing a pie was a waste of the protesters’ hard-earned dough when it could’ve bought them a ticket out of Belgium.

This wasn’t Ryanair’s first dance with humor as marketing fuel. They are the only airline that cracks jokes about the very thing they’re selling, even calling their windowless window seats – a waste of money. Their self-deprecating one-liner statuses consistently feed on the company’s disadvantages, which in turn makes them go viral.

One day they might downplay junk fees by trolling Donald Trump as having more charges than them. The next one, they could highlight their pricey name change fees by poking fun at Elon Musk’s X-Twitter rebranding. And then, they might spotlight oversized luggage charges by tweeting Loreen’s Eurovision performance setup.

Ryanair’s responses to legroom complaints, seat size questions, or free food inquiries regularly pack a comedic punch.

There doesn't have to be an intention for travel marketing to make you laugh. Check out these tourism campaign fails!

Smiles in the skies

There is a certain level of expectation for B2C communication standards, especially when delivering serious messages.

While most airlines try to maintain a professional demeanor in their social media presence, Ryanair’s strategy keeps customer service for DMs, while regularly dancing on the line of appropriate humor when it comes to the public field. Social media is a marketing tool, and a less serious approach definitely draws attention.

Humor has this ability to shake us up from not paying attention, and serious contexts prove this point the best. When we speak about airlines, there’s no more serious moment than a safety demonstration in the cabin. The procedure in which passengers are informed about the important features of the aircraft and things to do in case of emergency are standardized for a reason. But after flyers hear it for the umpteenth time, these safety briefings can blend into the background, become a sort of white noise, making their minds wander away.

However, every now and then, there emerges a flight attendant who shakes things up and breaks free from the script. One such legend in the history of in-flight entertainment was Michael McAdam, a veteran flight attendant for WestJet.

This multitalented Canadian (with expertise in acting, improvisation, and even comic book writing) had a remarkable steward career, giving his own twist to mundane safety announcements that usually make us fall asleep.

In an era when YouTube is flooded with videos of unruly passengers, cabin crew’s humor doesn’t just go viral. It also improves the atmosphere in the aircraft.

“Humor certainly did turn bad days into better days”, Michael tells me. “I once received an official commendation for turning an angry crowd  – our flight was three hours delayed – into a happy crowd by the time we landed.”

Educational hazard of in-flight entertainment

Flight attendants’ job can be exhausting, and in April 2023, Michael McAdam decided to retire his wings, after seventeen years of juggling turbulence and trolleys. During his career, he brought numerous smiles to a flying experience which can be stressful for many.

Even his fellow workers knew to resort to his improv comedy skills when nothing else worked. “Sometimes a crewmate would ask me to ‘step in’ if they had trouble with a difficult guest”, Michael reveals. Like in a magic trick, a flick of humor would make grumpy passengers disappear.

Back in the early 2000s, WestJet was the airline known for injecting humor into its announcements and safety demos. But when they decided to rebrand themselves as a serious business airline focused on the European market, they changed the uniforms as well as cabin crew “persona” for a “seamless experience”, Michael explains.

“Today, humor is discouraged for safety-related announcements, but attendants are allowed to use it during personal interactions with guests.”

In 2015, researchers Morteza Tehrani and Brett Molesworth conducted a study on the impact of humorous pre-flight safety briefings. It turned out they positively influence passengers’ moods, which could improve the performance in the event of an emergency. However, the study also showed that an entertaining briefing style had a trade-off. The funnier the presentation, the poorer the subjects recalled the key safety messages.

Michael McAdam never worried about whether his mood-lifting style affected the efficiency of his duties: “Quite the opposite. I saw that people actually paid attention to what I was doing, instead of reading or looking at their phones. It’s why I kept doing it all those years because people paid more attention to the safety demo.”

Safety meets satire – humor as a marketing tool that works

The topic of whether one should joke around while discussing matters that can literally mean a difference between life and death is controversial. Finding a delicate balance between entertainment and education is no easy feat.

However, the competitive space of social media is not a plane, and the audience is not just waiting for a take-off, with nothing else to do. To be able to deliver the message, one first needs to get users aboard. For achieving that coveted virality and a flurry of followers, humor is a fantastic tool.

Interestingly, this was proven exactly by the organizations that deal with the most serious topics of safety and security. They realized that to get their voices heard and truly connect with travelers, they needed to speak a language everyone could understand. And that language just happened to be humor.

Humorous tactics for safer travels

1. National Park Service – NPS, USA

Tourists have been misbehaving for years. The rise of unofficial accounts like the Facebook group Invasion of The Idiots or the Instagram account Tourons of Yellowstone (touron = tourist + moron) proved that sometimes it’s not enough to politely ask visitors not to approach a cliff, dip their fingers in volcanic hot springs, hug a cactus, take a selfie with a grizzly, or feed a moose.

With 1.2 million followers on X/Twitter, 1.8 million followers on Facebook, and 5.2 million followers on Instagram, the National Park Service is a US government agency that clearly knows how to reach its audience. If TikTok would be allowed to federal agencies, they’d probably have more than 4k fans there too (still an impressive base for zero posted content).

The organization that practically established a new slogan – “Don’t pet the fluffy cows” – uses clever captions, memes, infographics, and posters to teach us how (not) to engage with wildlife, as well as how to enjoy nature responsibly in general.

The person who devised the new social media strategy for the National Park Service in 2018 was Matthew Turner. He introduced hilarious content that just begged to be shared.

If you like visiting national parks, you sure don't love them as she does! Before the age of three, an American toddler Journey Castillo managed to visit all 63 national parks. Read an exclusive interview with a hiker with a pacifier!

Bison petting charts and bear menus

NPS’s advice can be as blunt as “To avoid crowds, visit areas that are less crowded”, or “Trails often look more flat on the map”. They can provide you with detailed bison petting charts, or sarcastically inform you what to do in the case of a bear encounter. “Pick up small children immediately, unless they’ve been acting up and you’re trying to send a message!” Or: “Hike in groups. Bears like to have options.”

This type of non-dry communication quickly proved successful in attracting more followers and producing better engagement. Even if it came from a serious government agency, users totally vibed with it. Some even picked up the style, such as rockinqltr who commented: “Do not push the Ranger’s buttons! All Rangers are voice-activated. Like Alexa.”

“The humor is often used to draw people in”, Matt Turner once explained. “But beyond the funny, there is usually a safety message, a deeper dive into park resources or policy, or a fun fact.”

I love their educational approach to the importance of drinking water:

“First rule of hydrate club: Stay hydrated.
Second rule of hydrate club: Talk about hydrate club.
Third rule of hydrate club: Just a minute, need a bathroom.”

2. Croatian Mountain Rescue Service – HGSS, Croatia

Croatia, a popular honeymoon destination and more, is a small European country with only 8 national parks (“only” – compared to USA’s 63). Croatia’s territory still gets a fair share of adventures and misadventures by tourists who need a little… Guidance. But there’s no dedicated government agency that would school these visitors in appropriate behavior, especially not one with a knack for humor.

However, one voluntary organization filled that slot. Hrvatska gorska služba spašavanja (HGSS), or Croatian Mountain Rescue Service, specializes in search and rescue operations in all sorts of hard-to-reach places, from the tops of mountains to the depths of caves and even the open sea. They’ve been doing this noble work for free since 1950, but their mission to prevent accidents got an irreplaceable platform in the age of social media.

Since 2012, they started focusing on Twitter as the most direct way to reach both citizens and the media. They quickly learned that a touch of black humor expands their reach. The masterminds of Christian Nikolić and Jadran Kapović delivered content that soon earned them accolades beyond their humanitarian work, such as awards for public communications.

Jadran Kapović himself explains it best: “Since we are not a typical service, our approach was in line with our character, a bit avant-garde. It was a breath of fresh air in terms of our laid-back, ironic, and sometimes sarcastic way of communicating.”

Tourists gone with the wind

How does that work in real life? HGSS might try to appeal to your compassion by asking: “During these chilly days, have you been in touch with your third-age relatives, especially those who live alone, and not on the topic of inheritance?”

Or they might appeal to your common sense, by posting a makeshift sign on Ugljan Island begging you not to hike in flip-flops.

In times when AI is being asked to recreate various world wonders, they generated their very own nightmare – an improperly dressed tourist in the mountains, complete with the caption “We asked artificial intelligence what non-intelligence looks like.”

Jadran sheds some light on this humor tightrope they walk: “Humor can often backfire or drift one’s attention away from the important message we incorporate in our posts. Humor is like bait, but the punchline is the ‘hook’ that makes the difference. Balancing the two is sometimes really hard.”

Their #deartourists series was especially inspired by Croatian visitors who underestimate the power of the ‘bura’ wind and find themselves floating away from the coast on inflatable birds. HGSS will advise you to bring your ID (“So that Italian coast guard do not mistake you for refugees”), urge you to hang on tight to your pink flamingo (“Makes it easier for us to find you”), or, as a last resort, suggest you tweet them from the afterlife (complete with a photo of a tourist in a coffin-shaped floaty and the message “May the dolphins be with you”).

Croatian Mountain Rescue Service, the organization that tries to “keep the number of you entering and exiting Croatia proportional”, definitely knows how to get its message across. They’re talking to tourists in a way that the Croatian Tourist Board never would, but they still include the country’s official slogan: “You are beautiful even without the dangerous cliff edge selfies. Take care of yourselves & let’s keep Croatia full of life.”

3. Transportation Security Administration – TSA, USA

Before you arrive from the USA to Croatia, you’ll have to pass through airport security checks, and the federal agency in charge of travel security doesn’t want to delay your journey.

To keep travelers informed, the Transportation Security Administration, born in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, uses Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook as reach-out channels.

Passing through airport security is already stressful in itself, so the lighthearted approach TSA’s screener Bob Burns introduced in 2013, managed to attract over 1 million intrigued followers.

You could see unusual checkpoint discoveries such as Freddy Krueger’s razor glove, but also learn that “while worn out fedoras and tattered green and red sweaters are discouraged in the fashion world, they are permitted at TSA checkpoints”.

“There’s a cheekiness to it, but I also try to educate and prove travel tips”, Blogger Bob explained his strategy once.

After the original author passed away, the six-member team led by social media manager Janis Burl (2020-2022) left their own mark with posts packed with wordplay and puns. She reveals that it would take them four hours of teamwork for each post!

Among numerous confiscated weapons, they reported about a passenger trying to travel with a bazooka. “It’s not rocket science”, TSA explained, promising to fire back answers to all questions shot at them.

On packing weapons, from chili beans to lightsabers

Today, TSA will teach you why peanut butter is a liquid and a cat is not. They’ll tell you that fireworks on the plane are not allowed, but “what about your canned chili beans?”.

As for forgetful travelers who typically act surprised when faced with weapons found in their luggage, they advise: “Always start with an empty travel bag. That way you don’t “accidentally” leave a knife, gun, cattle prod, brass knuckles, baton, hammer, or baseball bat in your carry-on.”

Even TSA’s official website has caught onto the relaxed communication vibe. In the list of things you can(not) bring to the plane, they toss in fantasy weapons as a legitimate example: “Sadly, the technology doesn’t currently exist to create a real lightsaber. However, you can pack a toy lightsaber in your carry-on or checked bag. May the force be with you.”

“The world doesn’t want to talk to the Government of my parents and their parents”, Janis Burl said in A Bit of Optimism podcast. “The world wants to talk to people and they want to know that you are human. And that was the aspect I was trying to bring out, ‘let me talk to you the way you are talking to me’.”

The benefits of humor in safety marketing

Incorporating humor even in the most serious of communications can be a super effective strategy. Several reasons make this marketing choice beneficial, even when we communicate topics of safety and security.

1. Attracting attention

Humorous content is a quick and effective way to grab people’s attention. In a world inundated with serious and often grim messages about safety and security, humor is a neon sign. It can make a message stand out, increasing the likelihood that people will notice and engage with the message.

2. Fact retention

While Tehrani-Molesworth research might disagree, the practitioners in the field claim that humor, when done right, can make important messages more memorable. Jokes and funny anecdotes can ease nervousness, disarm tension and anxiety, and help the targeted audience process, accept, and remember essential safety instructions.

PRO TIP: If you’re nervous about flying, try bringing along some weighted stuffed animals. They’re like fluffy anchors for your anxiety!

3. Universal appeal

Safety and security messages can sometimes feel impersonal or bureaucratic. Well-executed humor can humanize even the most complex message, and make it transcend cultural and language barriers. It can be digested and appreciated by a wide range of people, making it an effective tool for reaching diverse audiences.

4. Reduced resistance

Services that use humor can engage the audience and deliver critical information in a way that doesn’t feel too preachy or fear-inducing. As such, humor can lower resistance and, by making the message more relatable and less intimidating, encourage better compliance with safety guidelines.

5. Emotional connection

When people laugh, they experience positive emotions. Humor can foster an emotional connection between the audience and the message they receive, but also boost the positive brand image and trust in the organization behind the message.

6. Viral potential

Humorous content is the real king of the social media platforms. People can’t resist sharing and engaging with content that makes them laugh, which can significantly boost the organic reach of safety or security messages.

Humor as a serious safety marketing tool – conclusion

Travel experience, with its always new rules and regulations, can easily become a source of stress. All actors in the chain, from airlines and airports to organizations that manage destinations, can ease the tension with humor and make travelers swallow even those hard pills that they haven’t even considered consuming.

I’m not suggesting we need an army of comedians throwing dad jokes in a desperate attempt to make everyone laugh. As we have seen in examples, sometimes all it takes is just giving bureaucratic jargon a makeover – translating it into something more relatable. Whether it’s referencing pop culture, ditching the legal lingo, or simply not taking oneself too seriously, humor has the power to turn monologues into dialogues.

Humor takes raw information and makes it fun to absorbMichael McAdam

Jadran Kapović, who brought two PR professionals’ awards to Croatian Mountain Rescue Service, explains that the impact of their social media can be measured by the fact that, despite the rise of adventurous tourism, they’ve managed to stabilize the number of rescue missions. “Our educational posts, seasoned with a bit of irony, were great recipes to spread awareness and safety tips”, he says.

Of course, humor is subjective, and what might be hilarious to some may not resonate with others. It’s crucial to strike the right balance when using humor on serious topics. Offensive humor can backfire, causing harm to the brand or message. That’s why the task is best left to the professionals who can consider the target audience, cultural nuances, and the specific context when using humor in safety and security marketing.

The viral flight attendant Michael McAdam, who turned safety briefings into stand-up routines in the skies, summed it up nicely for Pipeaway: “I believe humor is a connection between people. It takes raw information and makes it fun to absorb, more interesting, and forges a connection between the speaker and the listener.”

After all, the word ‘humor’ has its roots in the Latin expression for ‘fluid’. Back then, a person’s health was measured by the balance of bodily fluids. Similarly, today, when humor is mostly connected to the world of amusement, it can be seen as an essential force that balances communication and makes it flow. It can improve the health of our social being.

What do you think about humor as a safety marketing tool?
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The post Humor to the Rescue: Can Jokes Be a Serious Safety Marketing Tool? appeared first on Pipeaway.

Many airlines still draw their tolerance line in front of plus-size cabin crew members

You might think that the topic is outdated and that discrimination based on body size was already fought through by the flight attendants of the 1960s and 1970s. But many airlines worldwide are stuck in a time warp and still cling to not always realistic appearance standards.

Sure, there have been certain improvements toward inclusivity and diversity on planes in recent years. United Airlines shook things up by giving the green light for employees of all genders to flaunt makeup, nail polish, and the natural flow of their hair. British Airways encouraged pride and authenticity permitting all staff to sport mascara, false eyelashes, and piercings. Most recently, Qantas scrapped male-female uniform designations and allowed their cabin crew to grow long hair, wear makeup and jewelry, and ultimately be themselves.

While Western airlines are finally unshackling themselves from gender-based policies, there are still many companies that draw their tolerance line right in front of plus-size cabin crew members. Fat flight attendants might find themselves grounded based on their appearance, with little regard for their actual job skills.

So can flight attendants be fat? Do cabin crew weight and height requirements truly keep us safe in the skies? Do airlines even hire plus-size cabin crew? What are the most fat-friendly airlines? Find the answers in this guide to the world of overweight flight attendants!

If they don't let you work as a flight attendant, learn how to become a pilot!

From runway to runway – sex sells seats

Post-World War II, in an era of fierce airline rivalry, flying was sold not just as a mode of transport, but a lifestyle – glamorous and exclusive, a jet-setter’s privilege. The advertised always-smiling and endlessly accommodating flight attendant in the 50s and 60s was seen as one of the most desired professions for women.

The illusion came at a price. To maintain the image of a petite, obedient servant, rigid physical examinations were a seasonal pressure. That created anxiety and even eating disorders.

Fuel prices skyrocketed in the 1960s, and airlines, desperate to lure male customers, decided to sex things up, turning stewardesses into objects.

One of the first such campaigns was the cringe-worthy Air Strip, a 1965 ad by Braniff International Airways, promising a disrobing in-flight entertainment.

To keep up with the expectations set by marketing campaigns, airlines enforced strict weight/height ratios for their flying elite. In an age when Twiggy became a fashion icon, measuring bust, waist, and hips became a routine part of flight attendant job interviews, and “extremely slim” was the norm.

The US stewardesses protested against the meat market. When the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, with Title VII guaranteeing equal employment opportunity without discrimination, they started filing numerous lawsuits.

This didn’t deter airlines from their business as usual. In 1971, National Airlines launched the Fly Me campaign, a spectacular display of sexism that doubled their passenger growth percentage compared to the industry standard.

The stereotype was embraced by other airlines too. Southwest Airlines delivered its “Sex Sells Seats” motto by dressing hostesses in hot pants and go-go boots, while advertising “love with no strings attached”.

Cabin crew weight requirements – fight or flight

Ann Hood, who joined the TWA as a flight attendant in the late 1970s, offers a glimpse of this world in her memoir, “Fly Girl”. She reveals that air hostesses were trying a variety of questionable weight-loss techniques, from excessive water drinking and experimenting with diuretics to following bizarre diets that had you eating nine bananas one day, nine eggs the next, and nine hot dogs on the third.

“Imagine a gaggle of tall, pretty, thin young women sitting in the sauna at the YMCA of Boston, trying to sweat off pounds. Ridiculous when you consider that by most people’s standards, we were already considered underweight. But, scared of losing our jobs, that’s exactly what we did”, Hood wrote.

Flight attendants had had enough and they formed unions to actively combat workplace discrimination. One such legal battle with American Airlines dragged on for 17 years, finally reaching a settlement in 1991. The airline agreed that cabin crew didn’t need to maintain the same weight they had at 21.

Mostly because of the pricy settlements, the US airlines started to abandon the old flight attendant weight requirements in the 1990s. While most Western cultures embraced the body positivity movement, carriers in Asia and the Middle East still restrict access to the profession on the basis of belt size.

The weight war decade of plus-size crew

The past decade has seen a rather weighty war unfold in the airline industry, particularly in the Eastern skies. Companies have been on a crusade against what they consider fat flight attendants. The battle shows no signs of a smooth landing.

2015 – Air India’s not-so-happy meal

In 2015, Air India put 600 flight attendants on a strict diet and exercise regimen for being overweight. The airline set body mass index limits at 22 for women, and 25 for men, effectively declaring 125 cabin crew members permanently unfit for duty.

The Indian Supreme Court rejected requests to ban weight limits.

In 2017, Air India grounded an additional 57 crew members, and in 2021, they even introduced airport weigh-ins for their staff before boarding.

2017 – Russia’s slimming strategy

Russian Aeroflot removed about 600 staff from international flights and slimmed down their salaries based on their performances on the scales.

“Aeroflot is a premium airline and part of the reason people pay for tickets is the appearance of its employees”, said Pavel Danilin, a member of the airline’s public council.

2019 – From tummy tuck to takeoff

Senior flight attendant Duygu Karaman quit working for Emirates after spending three long years in their Appearance Management Program because she was caught being 2 kilos too heavy. With 67 kilos at her maximum, she had to endure unannounced pre-boarding weight checks.

“Emirates is really strict with their grooming policy. They want pretty-looking people”, she told the Mirror, disclosing that continuous weight issues could result in salary cuts.

One of her colleagues went to extremes to keep her job, by submitting to a tummy-tuck surgery just to meet the airline’s weight standards.

2020 – 700 grams of excess baggage

Malaysia Airlines fired Ina Meliesa Hassim, a flight attendant with 25 years of service. The company’s guidelines allowed 61 kilograms of weight for someone standing at 160 centimeters. But Ina had 61.7 kg, which was considered overweight and didn’t align with “the image of a premium airline”.

2021 – PIA’s weight watchers

Pakistan International Airlines excluded 140 attendants from flying and promotions for being overweight.

The memo from the same company leaked in 2019, requesting the benched cabin crew to lose 2.3 kg per month over six months or face medical treatment.

2022 – Emirates’ weight police exposed

More former Emirates staff spoke up, revealing that the airline’s “weight police” can make you lose your job. The constant monitoring left employees feeling the neverending pressure.

Karla Bayson spoke to Insider about her anxiety during pregnancy, saying that staff who had given birth were grounded until they had lost weight.

Another staff member claimed they were encouraged to report on each other if they noticed anyone gaining weight. Big Brother employed little sisters to maintain the airline’s brand.

2023 – Turbulence on Chinese scales

Hainan Airlines, one of the largest airlines in China, threatened their cabin crew with an immediate suspension if they got 10% above the “standard weight limit” in kilograms (calculated as your height in centimeters minus 110).

Any attendant exceeding the standard will go through monthly weight monitoring, those that are hovering between 5 and 10% overweight can count on weekly weight checks, while everything beyond warrants suspension and a supervised weight reduction plan.

The reasons behind cabin crew weight limit

Beyond just setting doubtful beauty standards in order to create a certain image for their brand or corporate identity, airlines could still have valid reasons for implementing strict cabin crew requirements. They want to monitor the ability of their staff to perform their job in the costly operation of flying.

1. Limited space

In order to maximize their profits, available space in airplanes has been minimized. This means that flight attendants need to skillfully navigate narrow aisles and compact aircraft galleys, and being curvy or plus-size could make that difficult. The folding jump seats, used by the cabin crew during takeoff and landing, are also not the most generous with space.

Find out how much additional space you really get when opting for extra legroom seats!

2. Safety issues

In the event of an emergency, flight attendants need to be agile and mobile enough to easily, quickly, and safely move through the aircraft. If they have issues with navigating confined spaces in normal circumstances, airlines might think they could have even more trouble in controlling unruly aircraft passengers or assisting customers in the possible scenarios of turbulence, emergency evacuation, or dramatic water landing.

3. Heavy duty

Being a flight attendant is not an easy job even for the fittest candidates, not just because of irregular and extended shifts, or jetlag induced by changing time zones. The job involves a lot of footwork (in traditional airlines, female flight attendants have to wear high heels!), from standing and walking to squatting and lifting. Overweight and obese flight attendants could struggle with efficiently performing physically demanding duties.

4. Crew comfort

Cabin crew members, especially during critical phases of flight, need sufficient space to move around. Ensuring that crew members meet certain weight standards could contribute to a more comfortable environment for everyone onboard.

5. Uniform requirements

Airlines have uniforms designed to provide a professional and consistent appearance. But they are also standardized for safety. Ill-fitting uniforms are not just about unpolished or unprofessional looks; they could also impede movement.

6. Cost concerns

Being overweight can be a health hazard, increasing the risk of medical emergencies like strokes or heart attacks. Airlines can see weight restrictions as prevention against possible costly detours in case their staff needs an urgent medical intervention.

Restricting fat flight attendants – discrimination in gloves

Even in countries that have legally prohibited discrimination based on weight or appearance, there are always ways to exclude a plus-size flight attendant from the game. When there might be no written rules about weight restrictions for cabin crew, airlines can always invoke unspoken policies.

In 2022, Josefina Macchi was practically invited to read the lips of her recruiter when she applied for the job at Emirates. She didn’t have a chance of passing the job interview phase.

A hopeful flight attendant approached her interviewer for feedback, so she could improve for future job calls. After being praised for her beauty and English proficiency, she was told that she needed to lose weight. The person standing between her and her dream career also said not to tell anyone about this because “it doesn’t speak well of the company”.

She did speak about it on social media, and while not scoring a job at UAE carrier, Josefina now works for ultra-low-cost Argentinian airline Flybondi. As for Emirates, they’ve solidified their reputation as an airline that’s not too keen on plus-size cabin crew.

While this particular recruiter was confidential but blatantly sincere with an aspiring flight attendant, sexism against unwanted candidates can always be camouflaged. Airlines can use subtler arguments to ensure their crew members meet certain body shape requirements, without being accused of discrimination. For instance, a fat flight attendant could always be rejected for, let’s say, not speaking English fluently enough.

What should the cabin crew weigh?

If weight can be a problem in scoring a job at a major airline, the most logical question is: How much do flight attendants have to weigh? And this is where things get complicated, especially if legislation forbids discrimination on someone’s size.

The truth is there is no prescribed maximum weight for cabin crew. Instead of saying that flight attendants have to be a certain weight, airlines prefer to speak in vague terms such as “healthy weight” or “in proportion to height”, which leaves room for interpretation.

Some airlines, as we have seen, established the BMI limit for cabin crew. The body mass index is calculated by dividing one’s weight in kilograms by the square of the height in meters. Typically, a BMI between 19 and 25 should be considered healthy. But we have seen airlines lowering the maximum BMI for cabin crew to 22, especially for stewardesses.

The connection between a BMI index and fitness for a flight attendant job has been criticized as discriminatory, as it doesn’t take into account variations. BMI can come from muscles and bones as well as from fat. The athletes can have a high BMI, but nobody would label them unfit.

Of course, this system is also deficient because it approaches one isolated parameter while ignoring the crew’s actual performance, or even job experience.

If you are just a passenger, learn everything you need to know about flying while fat! If you want to maximize your space and hopefully avoid being seated next to a plus-size passenger, employ these strategies!

Can you be a fat flight attendant?

The term “fat” is often used in a derogatory way, but it is simply a descriptor of body size. Fat people can be just as healthy and capable as people of other sizes. They can also be just as stylish, professional, and efficient.

Being on a curvy side, you should not let your plus size deter you from chasing your dream job. To avoid disappointments when applying for a flight attendant position, always research the conditions your desired airline requires, as these can differ.

Do not let their appearance restrictions affect your confidence, and look for alternatives! It is definitely possible to be an overweight flight attendant; you just need to find the airline whose norms will fit you.

In general, it is believed that if you can comfortably settle in a plane seat without the need for a seatbelt extender, you should not worry that your size will be the eye of the needle you will not pass through.

While your weight might be measured during the cabin crew medical, typically your ability for the job is assessed through practical tasks. Those could include sitting comfortably in the jumpseat with a harness on, walking through the aisles facing forward/backward, fitting through the overwing door, or even fitting into a flight attendant uniform.

Do airlines hire overweight flight attendants?

Just like airlines define the term “overweight” very differently and often subjectively, their practices can also be inconsistent.

Without the need to scare off the prospective candidates, it’s worth noting that many flight attendant stories start with prejudices during the recruitment process.

In extreme cases, the job interview can uncomfortably resemble a casting couch audition for a less-than-classy movie, which can leave candidates running away in tears.

For instance, in 2017, Malindo Air in Malaysia was reported to have stripped the applicants at casting. The airline’s PR said: “It is the right of the employer to request potential flight attendants to expose their chests to interviewers.” While cabin staff wannabes had to remove their tops, they could leave their bras on.

This kind of overstepping boundaries can happen in Europe too. In 2022, the Meccti recruitment agency organized a casting call for Kuwait Airways in Madrid. The first cut dismissed those who were deemed too fat, too ugly, or too old (as testified by some of the candidates), but an even bigger surprise came in the second round. Each of them had to strip down to their undergarments, so the recruiters could check for scars, birthmarks, and tattoos on parts of the body that would never be seen by passengers. The airline promised to investigate the matter.

The path to one of the most coveted jobs in the airline industry is not always this dramatic. But if you aim to become a plus-size flight attendant, you can be sure that if not every gram, then every mole and even your grasp of English grammar will be scrutinized. That’s why it’s important to know your goals and choose to work for those airlines where plus-size people can become cabin crew.

Fat-friendly airlines – where plus size is a plus

There are a number of airlines that are known to hire plus-size cabin crew. These companies found that fat flight attendants can be just as efficient as people of other sizes. Additionally, they aim to provide a more positive experience for larger passengers.

Virgin Atlantic is an airline that loves to highlight individuality. They’ve thrown the rulebook out of the window by ditching gender-defined uniforms, allowing their flight attendants to not wear make-up, and in 2022, becoming the first airline to embrace visible tattoos. The British company has no weight or appearance requirements for cabin crew.

Alaska Airlines is another company with clear diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, always striving to improve the representation of races, ethnicities, genders, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. When it comes to weight or appearance requirements, they’re refreshingly chill, except for saying ‘no’ to visible tattoos.

The Australian Qantas that’s recently undergone a style and grooming makeover has no weight requirements for cabin crew, but they do expect them to have an excellent level of health and fitness.

These are just a few examples of airlines that have adopted inclusive weight and appearance policies. There are also others that are as welcoming to fat flight attendants.

As a matter of fact, many of these pioneering workers are using social media platforms to advocate for systemic changes toward inclusivity and acceptance in the aviation industry. They may be loud and proud, but each of them is also a living answer to the question: “Are there fat flight attendants?”

If you want to see which airline would employ a plus-size air hostess, follow the TikTok adventures of Michelle and OhSnapItzDaria (Delta), Kel (Southwest Airlines), Kenzie (Westjet), Vané (American Airlines), Dae and Elley (Ryanair), Mamaaleonaa (Easyjet), or Kristina (already mentioned Alaska Airlines).

Whichever airline you choose to fly with, you will find the cheapest flights on this link! During the Black Friday promotion, get a special discount if booking before December 5th, with the promo code "BFRIDAY40"!    

Breaking stereotypes about fat flight attendants

In a profession where slender and model-like cabin crew members have long been the poster children, fat air hostesses are the faces of revolution, forcing the industry to evolve in embracing diversity, inclusivity, and body positivity. These women (and an occasional man) are eager to prove that professionalism and top-notch customer service are not confined to a specific body size.

Unfortunately, discrimination and bias can still exist in the industry. Plus-size flight attendants may face challenges based in fatphobia, and receive negative comments from colleagues and passengers.

It’s crucial for airlines to continue providing ongoing support to plus-size cabin crew members, from tailor-made uniforms to diverse work environments and equal opportunities for career advancement.

Discrimination doesn’t disembark just because the job market doors have swung open. It’s important to speak up and report any instance of harassment, as well as advocate for equal treatment and opportunities. Standing up for oneself can help create a more accepting and diverse workplace for everyone.

By overcoming obstacles and achieving success, larger flight attendants can even inspire others. They send a powerful message that competence comes in all shapes and sizes. Passengers from all walks of life can feel seen and represented, which can foster a more enjoyable, comfortable, and welcoming flying experience for everyone.

Through active recruiting and supporting flight attendants with diverse backgrounds, airlines can challenge antiquated stereotypes, and mirror changes in society.

Making room for plus-size cabin crew – Conclusion

In an industry that appears to be fixated on body image, flight attendants face significant challenges when it comes to breaking the mold. Plus-size cabin crew, in particular, is defying stereotypes and rewriting the narrative.

These fiercely proud fat stewardesses and stewards are on an empowering journey, determined to soar above societal expectations of beauty. With the rise of body positivity movements, these trailblazing flight attendants are making waves in the aviation industry, just by doing their job. They successfully challenge the notion that only slim and slender individuals can excel in their profession.

Western airlines are upgrading their inclusion policies, but those in the Eastern world still measure fat flight attendants’ performance mainly on scales

While some Western airlines are becoming more receptive in recognizing new social realities, and loosening their rigid old-school rules that wanted to uniform the flying experience, there remains ample room for improvement in the diversity department.

In more traditional cultures, where prescribed haircuts, make-up, and sometimes even the marital status of flight attendants are non-negotiable, change may be slower to arrive. The sacredness of the rulebook will sadly continue generating stress and anxiety each time a flight attendant steps onto the employer’s scale, with the threat of losing the job.

While there are legitimate reasons to have performance expectations from cabin crew responsible for the safety of passengers, weight-height mathematics is just outdated. The ratio between kilograms and centimeters, scientists agree, is not a reliable method of evaluating one’s fitness level.

So if we’re going to justify weight requirements for flight attendants with safety and not aesthetics, shouldn’t we find a better way to test cabin crew’s capacities? After all, we wouldn’t want to play with safety in the air by using an unreliable yardstick.

What’s your view on fat flight attendants? Would you love to be able to fly with a plus-size crew?
Leave your comment below and pin this article for later!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

The photographs in this article have been sourced from private albums of flight attendants and airlines' public ad campaigns, or they are AI images created by Ivan Kralj / Midjourney.

The post Plus-Size Cabin Crew: Can a Flight Attendant Be Fat? appeared first on Pipeaway.

Full-on anti-COVID measures might not be present anymore, but there is a new epidemic in the air. We’re witnessing an upward trajectory in incidents involving unruly passengers on flights. And these airborne hooligans are getting more and more extreme.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate their contribution to the latest news stories.

• • In January, a United Airlines passenger flying from Newark to London sexually assaulted a woman seated in business class.
  • In February, the American Airlines flight from Jacksonville to Washington was forced to perform an emergency landing in North Carolina because an unruly passenger attempted to break into the cockpit.
  • In March, an unruly passenger on an AA flight from Barbados to Miami physically assaulted the flight attendants after being told only vegetarian meals were served. The disgruntled meat-eater pushed one crew member twice and pinned another one against the cockpit door. Nothing says “Where’s my steak?” like a shoving match in the cabin! Meanwhile, an unruly passenger on a United flight from Los Angeles to Boston tried to open an emergency exit door and stab a flight attendant with a broken metal spoon. A Southwest flight from Dallas to Phoenix had an unruly passenger showering a fellow passenger with punches for accidentally bumping into his wife.

• One unruly passenger was removed from the flight, but on her dramatic way out, she hit a flight attendant with an intercom phone

  • In April, the shower was golden. A heated argument on board an American Airlines flight from New York to New Delhi escalated to the level where a passenger urinated on another (exactly the same incident happened on an Air India flight on the same route in January!). The very same day, United Airlines also had their own passenger with a bladder control issue, arguing over his right to use the flight attendant’s jump seat while waiting in the queue for the toilets. The flight from Newark to Tel Aviv was returned to the departure airport.
  • In May, another United passenger, this time boarding in San Francisco, refused to move from someone else’s seat, punched the crew member, and opened an emergency exit door while trying to escape. The same month, on Frontier Airlines aircraft scheduled from Denver to Tampa, a belligerent passenger was removed from the flight, but on her dramatic way out, she hit a flight attendant with an intercom phone. Another disruptive passenger on the same airline was voted off by other flyers traveling from Trenton to Atlanta. Arguing with fellow passengers can only get you so far.
  • In June, a Delta Air Lines flight from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Canada due to an unruly passenger under the influence of alcohol. And over on a Lufthansa flight from Munich to Sofia, an unruly passenger stripped naked and bit a police officer who tried to cover her up.

These thrilling snippets of recent airline cases are just the tip of the turbulence iceberg, showcasing the alarming world of outrageous behavior onboard aircraft.

Even if you have the most romantic intentions, making love on the plane can leave you in trouble. Learn how to safely join the mile high club! 

Unruly pax numbers take off

According to the recent statistics provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), incidents with unruly airline passengers have taken flight again.

Being trapped in a metal tube with complete strangers for hours on end is never close to the definition of joy, but IATA analysis suggests unruly aircraft passenger incidents skyrocketed in 2022.

There was one unruly passenger report for every 568 flights, up from one per 835 flights in the previous year.

With omnipresent mobile phones (yes, those little devices you should switch off during the flight), unruly airline passenger videos are popping up all the time. As twisted reinterpretations of in-flight entertainment, these YouTube reality shows add even more to the feeling that incidents are becoming more and more common.

Take a look at some of the unruly passengers caught on tape!

When unruly passengers check into their accommodation at their final destination, property owners have a secret weapon against them: hidden cameras! But this safety measure also invades every guest's privacy, so learn how to protect yourself!

Rage against the machine: What is precisely an unruly aircraft passenger?

By unruly passenger, we mean a passenger who defies rules and instructions issued by the flight crew. They are the disruptors of good order and discipline, and their actions directly or potentially compromise the safety of everyone on board and the flight itself.

These aggressive, violent, out-of-control, and disruptive plane behaviors are often described as air rage.

Believe it or not, the first recorded encounter with an unruly aircraft passenger dates all the way back to 1947. It was during a flight from Havana to Miami when a drunk traveler assaulted not only a fellow passenger but also a flight attendant.

Fast forward eight decades later, and air rage stories have become as common as delayed departures and lost luggage. From heated debates over reclining seats and armrest territory to using the emergency exit as their personal escape hatch, the unruly passenger brigade continues producing airborne dramas. It comes to prove that only the sky is the limit for misbehavior.

In 2022, FAA proposed the largest fine ever – $81,950 for an unruly passenger disrupting an American Airlines flight from Dallas to Charlotte by trying to open the cabin door, biting, spitting, headbutting, and kicking everyone on board!

Breaking rules on your final destination can be costly too. Check out new regulation destinations brought to battle overtourism!

What are the types of unruly passengers?

The International Civil Aviation Organisation classifies disruptive passenger events into four threat levels:

1. Verbally disruptive behavior (using unacceptable language, voice tone, and gestures, provoking arguments, displaying suspicious behavior, not following instructions and challenging authority, violating safety rules)
2. Physically abusive behavior (hostile action that includes physical contact, obscene or lewd behavior, verbal threats, tampering with aircraft equipment, deliberately damaging aircraft)
3. Life-threatening behavior (threat, display, or use of weapons, physical or sexual assault)
4. Attempted or actual breach of the flight crew compartment (intrusion into the flight deck, acts of sabotage, threat of death, weapon usage, or serious bodily injury, attempt to gain control of the aircraft)

According to IATA unruly passengers statistics, the non-compliance incidents marked as level one (such as smoking in lavatories, refusing to fasten seatbelts or turn off electronic devices when instructed, exceeding the carry-on baggage limits, or failing to store it when required, indulging in personal alcohol supplies) are the most common. The year-to-year increase in unruly passengers on this basic level has been 37%.

While physical abuse incidents remained relatively rare, there was an astonishing 61% increase in 2022 compared to 2021. Such incidents occur once every 17,200 flights. Don’t get your hopes up for scoring a viral YouTube video on your flight; the odds of witnessing an in-flight wrestling match between unruly airline passengers are still relatively slim.

Why do people misbehave on planes?

What turns a seemingly normal person into an unruly passenger at a ten-kilometer height? It seems there are numerous factors making passengers go wild. These are the typical sources of unruly passenger behavior:

• • People most often misbehave because of alcohol intoxication, but in some cases also drug abuse (trips that get truly trippy). Mixing these with high altitude and cabin pressure does not go well.
  • Some passengers could have existing mental health issues which get additionally triggered by the pressure of flying, producing anything from irrational outbursts to full-blown meltdowns.
  • There could be a frustration overload when passengers become angry because of the entire flying experience. Stress is formed from endless queues and screening processes, via flight delays and jet lag, to cramped seats, lackluster in-flight entertainment, or other passengers’ behaviors.

We already feel confined in the situation of flying, so when face masks were introduced as a requirement during the pandemic, a surge in unruly aircraft passenger numbers was explained by this frustration too. In 2021, three-quarters of airline passenger incidents were mask-driven tantrums that even toddlers would envy.

In an era when newly imposed rules can be seen as oppression, a small trigger is enough to provoke a radically inappropriate rebellion. The Southwest flight attendant found this out when she lost three teeth in an assault by a passenger who refused to wear her mask properly, put the seat belt on, and stow away her tray table.

This growling man on an American Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City is a poster child for frustration with the pandemic!

From chaos to consequences: What happens to unruly airline passengers?

Dealing with unruly passengers starts with restoring order. While the cabin crew’s first response in de-escalating the situation might be projecting calmness, don’t test the boundaries of this politeness.

You might think a flight attendant’s job is just pouring coffee and distributing pretzels, but you couldn’t be more wrong about it. As everyone’s safety is their main mission, flight attendants undergo intense self-defense training, and are ready to use it when faced with aggressive passengers. You could spend the remaining time of your flight recovering from a stun gun, physically restrained, duct-taped, or even handcuffed.

Depending on the level of one’s action, it is up to a crew member to decide whether they want to report the unruly passenger behavior or let it slide. If they file a report, nothing nice can happen to disruptive passengers.

For a start, flight attendants can remove a difficult passenger from a flight, which typically means a detour from the flight’s regular route and an emergency landing.

After being kicked off the plane, fines for unruly airline passengers can soar up to a jaw-dropping $37,000 per violation.

There could also be criminal charges against unruly passengers. In the States, assaulting a flight attendant is a federal offense that could put the violator behind bars for 20 years.

Airlines could also banish you from the skies. If your passport is hungry for stamps, landing on an unruly aircraft passenger list (so-called no-fly list) should not be on your bucket list.

Check out this passenger on a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston that won’t be flying again so soon!

The call for action

IATA’s Deputy Director General Conrad Clifford has some choice words for the disruptive passengers on planes. “The increasing trend of unruly passenger incidents is worrying”, he says. “Passengers and crew are entitled to a safe and hassle-free experience on board. There is no excuse for not following the instructions of the crew.”

In response to this unruly epidemic, IATA has outlined a two-pillar strategy to combat the mayhem.

Firstly, governments should have the legal authority to prosecute the actions of unruly passengers, no matter where they come from. Those powers and measures were enabled in the so-called Montreal Protocol 2014, the extension of the Tokyo Convention of 1963 whose loopholes enabled unruly passengers to escape law enforcement. IATA is urging all countries to ratify the MP14, which has been in force since 2020, and until today, covers only a third of international passenger traffic.

Secondly, guidance and collaboration within the industry are crucial to prevent and de-escalate incidents. That should include collaboration with industry partners (for instance, airport bars and duty-free shops), sharing best practices, but also awareness-raising campaigns that should show the consequences of bad behavior on planes.

For instance, in the US, that is the job of the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA‘s unruly passenger policy is one of zero tolerance. Their key messages are that behaving dangerously is costly and that unsafe behavior doesn’t fly. In 2021, they used memes to promote the concept.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) launched the #notonmyflight campaign in 2019, and these days they started addressing unruly plane passengers through the Fly Right This Summer campaign. Their mantras are “Be Polite” and “Don’t Fight”, where among other things, passengers are instructed to use magic words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

Check out other post-pandemic trends in the aviation industry!

Unruly aircraft passenger epidemic – Conclusion

The unruly passengers in the post-pandemic world have become turbulence that cannot be ignored. The aviation industry is not taking the airborne circus lightly. They are eager to deal with sky-bound troublemakers.

But can FAA memes and EASA’s politeness school discourage people from becoming unruly passengers on airlines? Maybe, if students were kindergarten kids. It seems to me that the industry is scratching the surface of a much deeper societal problem.

We see people causing trouble in overcrowded tourist destinations, taking inappropriate pictures on graveyards, and misbehaving anywhere from public statues to gallery exhibitions. In the self-centered world where we starve for attention and our own importance, whether we fight for the plane seat or send the planes to fight another country, it’s not functional just to tell people “Oh, please don’t leave your mark like that”.

Do we have the right systems in place to detect, prosecute and blacklist unruly passengers?

The cultural change we expect reminds of Japan. But it’s a society where order and politeness are ingrained from an early age, and a strict system is in place for mature offenders. When teaching grown-up passengers that politeness is nice, Western systems might be decades late. When punishing them with fines, the same systems might not be strict enough.

“No one wants to stop people from having a good time when they go on holiday”, IATA’s Clifford says. “But we all have a responsibility to behave with respect for other passengers and the crew. For the sake of the majority, we make no apology for seeking to crack down on the bad behavior of a tiny number of travelers who can make a flight very uncomfortable for everyone else.”

We all understand that unruly passengers on airplanes are unwanted. But whether we have the right systems to effectively detect them, properly prosecute them, and blacklist them from flying again, remains up in the air.

A threat of a five-year ban on a certain airline might not be enough to restrain the rudest and most obnoxious airline passengers from producing air rage incidents.

Have you ever witnessed an unruly aircraft passenger?
Tell us about your experience in the comments, and pin the article for later!

The post Flying Circus: The Rise of Unruly Aircraft Passengers appeared first on Pipeaway.

The worldwide global search analysis has shown that pilots are one of the most sought-after professions. Besides telling us that in a year 930.630 people ask search engines ‘how to be a pilot’, the result also reveals there is a mystery about it: indeed, how do you become a pilot?

Six times more people search for ‘how to be a pilot’ than for ‘how to be an influencer’

The British company Remitly analyzed Google search data to determine the frequency of the ‘how to be a [job]’ query occurrence in every country in the world. The most-searched-for job was then interpreted as the most popular dream career in that specific country.

Pilots were the top result in 25 countries, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Moldova, Montenegro, Cyprus, Australia, and some smaller island states in Oceania.

While being a writer ended up at number two and being a dancer at number three on the global chart, thus revealing art and culture as highly interesting career fields, pilots still had the most impressive search volume worldwide.

As a matter of fact, pilots were five to six times more popular than Youtubers and influencers, or nine times more popular than bloggers and doctors!

The second air travel job, that of a flight attendant, was also high on the global scale, at the 15th spot worldwide, just above firefighters, judges, lawyers, and psychologists.

When we have almost a million people asking Google annually ‘how to be a pilot’, it is obvious that even 120 years after the Wright brothers’ first flight, there are still plenty of us who want to conquer the skies.

In this guide, learn how to become a pilot, step by step!

Pilots are a great information source! I eavesdropped on one pilot's conversation, and thanks to that, I've learned why I should always pick the last seat on the plane.

Age limit for becoming a pilot

How old do you need to be to become a pilot?

The minimum age requirement for becoming a pilot depends on the type of pilot license you are applying for. For a student pilot, the minimum age is 16, for a sport or private pilot 17, for a commercial pilot 18, and for an airline transport pilot permit the minimum age is 23.

How old is too old to become a pilot?

As long as you have good health and fitness, there is no law-required maximum age limit for pilot training. The only real exception is the airline transport pilot permit; this one cannot be obtained or renewed after the age of 65. So as long as you are not aiming at it as a career, you can keep flying even after your retirement.

How long does it take to become a pilot?

The amount of time needed to become a pilot really depends on the type of pilot certification you want to pursue.

As a student pilot, you could count on your first solo flight after about 2 months.

For sport pilots, recreational pilots, and private pilots, training programs usually last 3 months.

Becoming a commercial pilot can take about 9 months if you start with zero experience.

Because of the high number of needed flight hours, getting an airline transport pilot license can take between 2 and 5 years.

A pilot's job does come with its set of everyday challenges. As confirmed by people constantly flying, you are more prone to experience the feeling most easily explained as a travel fogginess or traveler's confusion - learn what you need to know about that phenomenon!

3 steps to become a pilot

If you plan to become a pilot, it’s important to know that the exact process, as well as the cost associated with becoming a pilot, might differ depending on the country you live in, and the aviation authority in charge. Always check with the local civil aviation authority for up-to-date information on how to become a pilot!

In general, these are the most common steps to becoming a pilot:

Step 1: Pass the medical exam

The first step to become a pilot is passing the medical examination. While this is not a requirement for sport pilots, for instance, it’s good to obtain the health certificate so you can be sure there’s no hidden issue that might stop you from becoming a pilot.

Depending on the type of pilot license, there are various classes of medical certificate requested, from the third class for a private pilot, the second class for a commercial pilot, or the first class for an airline transport pilot.

The flight physical examination checks your general medical and neurological condition, vision, hearing, equilibrium, cardiovascular system, and mental health.

Depending on the certificate class, the requirements might vary, and the validity of the certificate differs according to the candidate’s age.

Step 2: Learn how to fly

There are two distinctive parts of learning how to fly: ground school and flight school.

The ground school teaches about the theory of aviation, aerodynamics, flight planning, meteorology, and navigation. This education, whether done in a classroom or as a home study, is crucial for passing the aeronautical knowledge test.

The flight school is a practical education on operating an aircraft, communicating with air traffic control, and executing a variety of flight maneuvers and procedures. This part of the pilot education ends with a practical test, the so-called checkride flight.

While you can take flying lessons with an instructor, you will need a student pilot license before flying an aircraft alone.

Step 3: Collect flying hours

From here on, obtaining various levels of pilot licenses depends on passing knowledge and practical tests, as well as logging the requested amount of flight time. Also, lower-tier licenses are prerequisites for obtaining higher-level ones.

For a sport pilot license, which enables you to operate light-sport aircraft (gyroplanes, gliders, balloons), you will have to gain 20 flying hours.

A recreational pilot license could entitle you to fly more complex aircraft, even by night, but you will need to collect 30 flight hours.

With a private pilot license, you will be able to operate aircraft with passengers, but not for money. The minimum number of flight hours to obtain this license is typically 40.

A commercial pilot license will enable you to execute some paid activities, such as banner towing, agricultural operations, or skydiving flights. You will have to accumulate up to 250 flight hours and get instrument rating certification.

Finally, an airline transport pilot license entitles you to work as a member of an airline crew, but you will need to get additional certifications such as instrument and multi-engine rating. Also, at this stage, you will need to have 1500 hours of flight (at least in the United States).

To be able to accrue such a high number of flights, many pilots choose to become flight instructors (another special permit), as all hours spent in the air add up. Getting paid while getting flying experience is not a disadvantage either.

There are obstacles and limits to becoming a flight attendant too. One of them could be your weight. Find out if you could join the plus-size cabin crew!

Airlines and military – other options for becoming a pilot

Besides going through a pilot school or aviation university, there are other options for starting a pilot career.

One route for becoming a pilot is by joining cadet pilot programs offered by larger airlines. Even without a job offer guarantee, candidates who successfully finish the program at least secure an interview with their carriers. If you already know that you want to become a major airline pilot, with, let’s say, American Airlines, Delta, or Emirates, the best path is to go through their training academies.

The other route for becoming a pilot is the military one. If you already know you want to become a fighter pilot in Air Force or in the Marines, for instance, joining the military aviation divisions in the armed forces is a way to go. Of course, the military path is a demanding one, but if you seek overseas missions, it comes with its own set of perks.

Flying planes brings a lot of privileges. For a start, it provides exclusive perspectives of Earth that pedestrians do not experience. Heart-shaped islands offer some spectacular views from above!

Choosing a pilot specialty

Pilots can specialize in different areas, from helicopter piloting and military aviation to large commercial jets. As a pilot, you can engage in fire fighting, law enforcement, search and rescue operations, or casual sightseeing tours.

Whatever you choose to do with your career in aviation, remember that every flying hour or knowledge gained will help you down the road (runway?), even if you later choose to change your pilot specialty.

There are dozens and dozens of career paths for pilots, and these are the quick answers on how to become some of them.

How to become a helicopter pilot

Requirements to get a helicopter license as a private pilot are similar to the requirements for a fixed-wing aircraft.

The difference is in obtaining a commercial helicopter pilot license; the main request is logging at least 150 hours of flight as a pilot, out of which 100 hours have to be in a helicopter. There are also additional requirements around night flights and cross-country flights.

To become a helicopter pilot with an airline transport license, 1200 hours of flight are needed, including a certain amount of nighttime flying, cross-country flying, and hours flown by instrument.

In order to become a police helicopter pilot, the best path is to join the police as an officer, become a tactical flight officer, and eventually earn the pilot license to be able to perform the duty. There is an option of first getting a pilot license and then joining the police force, but it all depends on the specific police agency.

To become a Coast Guard/Navy helicopter pilot, one should already be an officer in these armed forces branches or a flight-school graduate in another branch.

If you want to become an air ambulance/medevac pilot, hospital helicopter transport companies will typically require between 1000 and 2000 hours of flight time. This includes flight by instruments as candidates have to be able to demonstrate the ability of rescue flying in all weather conditions.

How to become a drone pilot

Drone pilots are relatively a new profession, recognized by the FAA in 2016. The minimum age for flying a drone (or an unmanned aerial vehicle – UAV) is 16, and you don’t even have to pass a blood pressure test!

While flying a drone can be just a fun hobby activity, there are a lot of commercial possibilities to exploit the skills, so becoming a certified drone pilot makes sense.

In order to get and keep a drone license, one needs to pass an aeronautical knowledge test and pass a training course every two years.

When you become a commercial drone pilot, income can arrive from marketing engagements (from real estate to theme parks), covering entertainment events (from concerts to sports), mapping the area (from construction projects to the mining industry), surveillance (from insurance companies to public safety operations)…

How to become a private jet pilot

If you’re excited about flying together with celebrities, VIPs, and business people alike, pursuing a career as a private jet pilot could be your chosen course.

To become a private jet pilot, you will need a private pilot license. But that will only allow you to fly your friends around, in your own plane (if you can afford it). To be hired by companies, a commercial pilot license will be required.

After securing a license, you just need to get hired. You can look for jet cards or charter jet companies (managing air taxis, sightseeing trips, or any business or pleasure-related travels requested by the hiring party), or for corporations and individuals who own their own jets (in which case you would be flying only for the jet owner’s needs).

Business aviation requires more flexibility from the pilot, but it can also offer competitive compensation and benefits, such as relaxing at exotic travel destinations.

How to become a cargo pilot

If you dislike making passenger announcements or don’t want to deal with complications arising from delays and emergencies, becoming a cargo pilot could be what you’re looking for.

Delivering mail, packages and other freight for companies such as FedEx, UPS, or Amazon, requires an airline transport pilot certificate, and a minimum of 1500 flight hours, out of which at least 1000 as pilot-in-command. Oh, and FedEx will test you for drugs before employing you!

If you choose a small cargo operator that flies only in visual conditions, you could start your pilot career already with a commercial pilot license, and 500 hours in the air. Cargo pilots operating in instrument flight rules can sometimes get an entry-level job already after 1200 flight hours.

Piloting cargo planes brings a comparable compensation package as flying with live passengers, and yet it offers more flexible schedules, and most often daytime flying.

How to become a jump pilot

Another specialization path in aviation is becoming a jump pilot. Skydiving is a popular sport, and dropping happy bombs, a slang term for practitioners of this extreme sport, is no less exciting.

It’s a job that comes with a lot of responsibility (live cargo in the back of the plane) and requires a lot of skill (even when you drop that cargo, you still need to be able to navigate through the airspace filled with freefalling people).

To become a jump pilot (and get paid for the job), one would need a commercial pilot license. Most insurance companies require between 350 and 500 flying hours though; after all, dumping passengers out of the plane is not a game.

On the other hand, danger brings excitement, so this is not a job you will fall asleep behind the wheel. As for the risk assessment, there is a comfort in the fact that, as a pilot, you’d be also wearing a parachute, just in case.

How to become an ag pilot or crop duster

Agricultural pilot or ag pilot, formerly known as a crop duster, is an exciting profession executing a variety of tasks. They spray farmlands with pesticides or fertilizers, plant seeds by aerial dropping, gather data on vegetation and the environment, or even double as water bombers in areas with wildfires.

To become an ag pilot, one needs a private pilot license, but also specialized training about agricultural chemicals and application procedures, as well as technical knowledge of flying at low altitudes with potentially hazardous obstacles.

Many aerial applicators start their career as ground staff, so get ready to learn about mixing chemicals, and loading the plane.

Ag pilots can count on getting work assignments from specialized crop dusting companies, business and farm owners, but also environmental agencies.

How to become a bush pilot

Backcountry flying job typically involves missionary aviators (with faith-based help for isolated people) or commercial bush pilots (supporting tourism or resource industries).

Bush pilots operate in the world’s most remote areas, delivering supplies and people to locations that conventional airlines cannot easily reach. This means flying without counting on prepared landing strips and runways, or other operational support.

Besides being more dangerous than other pilot jobs, due to its nature, the bush pilot profession comes with additional requirements. While commercial and instrument pilot certificates, as well as high-performance endorsement, are requested, you will need to log double flying time in comparison to your pilot colleagues – 500 hours.

But if you are into unique adventures above Canada, Alaska, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand, which means visiting wilderness with not many inhabitants, becoming a bush pilot is a career worth investing in.

How to become a seaplane pilot

If you want to fly and land anywhere where there’s water (hm, is landing the correct word in this case?), training for float planes is a must.

To become a seaplane pilot, you will need a single or multiengine sea class rating on your airman certificate, or sport pilot license with seaplane endorsement.

While you can learn how to fly on any type of aircraft, only training on an actual seaplane will teach you about water operations.

To add hydrodynamics to your aerodynamics knowledge, you can take training courses that can request anything between 7 and 50 hours in the air.

After learning everything you need to know about wind and water, you’ll be operating flying boats in no time.

How to become a hot air balloon pilot

If you like the idea of entering an exposed suspended gondola and having an opportunity for a 360-degree view during a flight, piloting a hot air balloon is for you!

In the United States, a private hot air balloon pilot license can already be obtained when you are 16. You will, of course, need to pass the exams, but also accumulate 10 hours of flying experience (in the UK, it’s 16 hours).

If you want to be able to be hired, charge for your flights, or use balloons for advertising, you will have to wait until you are 18. Besides obtaining a commercial pilot license, you will also need to accrue 35 hours of flying.

Of course, in order to become a hot air balloon pilot, it is sometimes easier to first become a flight crew member. This will enable firsthand education while getting paid for assistance.

How to become a blimp pilot

If you agree that flying a hot air balloon comes with magic, you’ll certainly confirm that a blimp has a special charm too.

Due to the cost of operating an airship (but also probably because of that flaming 1937 Hindenburg Zeppelin image that burned into our minds), lighter-than-air aircraft are extremely rare. There are only 25 blimps operating in the entire world!

Today, blimp pilots do not work in transferring passengers as much as in advertising (Goodyear Blimp is the most famous one). But how does one start to ride this gigantic billboard?

To become a blimp pilot, the candidate has to have a commercial rating (on whichever aircraft), as well as an instrument rating. Then you also need to train to pilot a Glimp for at least 50-100 hours.

If you are happy with spending many hours on the road (after all, airships are not fast), take on this helium-charged adventure that everyone will notice.

Do you want to go even higher than the stratosphere? Then you have to learn everything about traveling to space!

Further reading: Books on how to become a pilot

If you want more in-depth knowledge on becoming a pilot, here’s a selection of well-rated books for further reading:

Vesa Turpeinen is a chief flight instructor at a major flight academy, and he wrote two books in the pilot career series. “Learn to Fly and Become a Pilot” is the ultimate guide for determining your capabilities of becoming a professional pilot and getting started with flight training. “What to Expect from Flight Training” explains the overall process of obtaining pilot certificates and ratings.

In her book “Demystiflying”, Kine A. Paulsen explains how to become a pilot to those “who don’t speak pilot”.  For this 101 pilot guide, she talked to more than 200 pilots and aviation experts. If you’re intimidated by aviation jargon, this entertaining book could motivate you to not give up.

Noemí Prat, a flight attendant turned pilot, wrote a guidebook called “Future Pilots Checklist”.  The book clears up the industry’s most common misconceptions, gives tips and tricks to excel during training, reveals requirements but also funding options, and includes both European (EASA) and American (FAA) regulations.

While all these books fall into a price bracket between 10 and 20 dollars, you can also test the pilot grounds with audiobooks you could listen to free of charge with Audible. Both “How to Become an Airline Pilot” by Robert Lawrence, and “How to Become a Pilot in Europe” by Kudzanai Chikohora, promise that you can achieve your pilot dream job without going broke.

Conclusion: Is becoming a pilot worth it?

Since they’ve seen first birds gliding through the air, until the Google searches of the new age, people have been fascinated with flying.

While they learned to stay afloat on the water quite quickly, overriding the gravity high in the air was a challenge for a long time, a challenge that took many sacrifices.

Becoming a pilot can be expensive, but the job comes with a solid payroll

We live in an era when flying is often taken for granted. But beyond this omnipresent human technology, there is a history of trials and errors, as well as constant advancement in bettering our flight machines.

Today, we can take the leap in a matter of weeks, sometimes quicker than it takes certain students to get a car driving license!

Becoming a pilot, however, can be an expensive game. Pursuing flying as a hobby has to be justified by a deeply rooted love for one of the oldest human dreams. Love for flying is obviously a requirement for the career path too. Still, commercial pilot operations at least come with a solid payroll, which sooner or later annuls the initial investment.

While it takes work and sacrifices, becoming a pilot also delivers extraordinary rewards. Air travel brings passengers to some great world destinations, but the exclusive privilege of entering a cockpit, that control center of our mechanical birds, is a worthwhile destination by itself.

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The post Dream Job No. 1: Steps to Become a Pilot appeared first on Pipeaway.

To some extent, we can all agree that airline policies of packing passengers in planes like sardines in cans are not fair. The extra legroom seats are the most sought-after section of the plane, securing extra profit for companies. But we should all be assigned more than just minimal space when flying.

This guide to flying while fat will lift the weight off your shoulders

While we can relate to this basic idea of comfort in the air, public opinion easily shifts if the person demanding more personal space in planes is – overweight. Suddenly, once united protesters against the airline policies split off into groups. One of these certainly becomes an avid defender of the status quo. For them, the obese passengers on a plane should be stripped of their rights to demand a more comfortable flight.

Humans are complex beings, both physically and psychologically. But if you are overweight, you already know that you will typically be expected to offer a lot of explanations for your condition in order to be perceived seriously.

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide for fat people on planes will at least give you essential practical tips on flying while fat and advice on how to board your plane without the weight of worries.

Are you a plus-size but still dream about becoming a flight attendant? Here's what you need to know about becoming a member of a cabin crew when overweight!

Fat person on a plane – first-hand experience

As British blogger Kirsty Leanne found out, it doesn’t take much for large-bodied travelers to stir internet debates. The TikToker was flying with Ryanair and illustrated her uncomfortable experience of flying as a fat person in what became a viral video, with more mean than meaningful backlash.

“The first issue I faced was walking down the plane aisle. I felt the stares of people and all I could think was that they didn’t want me to sit next to them”, Kirsty revealed.

But gazes were not the only issue an obese person on a plane has to face. Narrow aisles, even narrower lavatories, and the use of seatbelt extenders, all of these affect the experience.

Kirsty’s belly got in the way of her wishful lunch break too. “The tray table was a big fat no”, she said, while trying to open it with no success.

@kirstyleannetravels Flying Ryanair with no upgrades ❤️ #plussizetraveltok #travellingwhilefat #plussizetravel #plussizequeen #plussize #ryanair #flyingwhilefat #plussizeseating #fatacceptance ♬ As It Was – Harry Styles

The internet backfired with thousands of comments ridiculing Kirsty’s issues. The most frequent advice was aligned with the simplified school of thought such as “eat less”, “change your lifestyle”, “buy two seats”, “disabled people deserve more accessibility than you do”, “the world doesn’t revolve around you”, “I feel bad for the people sitting next to you”…

While the hate speech would affect many of us negatively, Kirsty simply tries to shake it off. She has dedicated her TikTok, Instagram, as well as Plus Size Travel Too blog to helping overweight people travel the world. Hashtags #bodyliberation and #fatacceptance support her mission, and doing it in public does take some personal toll.

If you are not a plus-size traveler and only want to secure reaching your final destination with maximum comfort, here's how to handle being seated next to a larger passenger.

Fat flying cat

In 2019, a business class passenger on a flight from Moscow to Vladivostok was two kilos heavier than the airline’s limit. His name was Viktor. With 10 kilograms of weight, this cat wasn’t fitting into Aeroflot‘s restrictions on pets flying inside the cabin.

To protect the feline from stress connected to flying in a cargo hold, Viktor’s owner Mikhail Galin came up with an ingenious plan. He borrowed a smaller lookalike cat called Fibi, and after the weighing at the check-in, he swapped the furry body double with a real travel companion that would join him on board.

This trick could have gone unnoticed, but just like in Kirsty’s case, the social media posts brought attention to the story. Viktor’s moments of purring next to the glass of champagne were eternalized in Facebook and Instagram posts.

The airline launched an investigation on what they called a “serious violation”, and even found CCTV footage of the cat swap. Aeroflot kicked Mikhail out of their loyalty program and confiscated his air miles.

Unlike in Kirsty’s case, the general public was more sympathetic to the overweight passenger: “He deserves a medal! How ridiculous the cat has to weigh a certain amount”, “Can’t believe the airline is fat-shaming him”, “Aww so cute though it’s a violation”…

Cat lovers were rooting for public protests. Companies were offering free yearly supplies of cat food for Viktor. Mikhail was offered unlimited taxi rides. The Russian parliament member Vladimir Burmatov lobbied with the airline to revise its policy and return Mikhail’s nullified miles. The serious matter reached even Russian President Vladimir Putin, but he decided not to comment on the cat’s situation.

Can a plane be too heavy to fly?

People can have different criteria when commenting on overweight passengers on flights. A few kilos here or there, is it really that important? Can a plane really be too heavy to fly?

The simple answer is: yes, the plane can be too heavy to fly. This is determined by laws, those we, the people, have written, but also those written by gravity.

There are quite a few elements affecting the plane’s performance that are beyond the control, such as the runway length, elevation and geomorphologic surroundings of the airport, and weather conditions (air temperature, wind).

On the other side, there are elements affecting the plane’s performance that we can control, such as the weight and its distribution in the aircraft (balance).

Overloaded planes, especially the smaller ones, are risking fatal accident scenarios.

To optimize flight operations, all planes have a maximum takeoff weight and a maximum landing weight. Those numbers are not the same, namely because of the fuel consumption during the flight.

If the flight becomes unexpectedly shorter or requires an emergency landing, the plane needs to lose some weight first. As throwing passengers and bags out of the plane is not an acceptable option, the only solution that remains is – the fuel dump. Despite widespread beliefs that this procedure is done to minimize the risk of an explosive impact, it is connected to controlling the maximum landing weight of the aircraft.

While technology has significantly improved, our destiny is still in human hands. Here's what you have to know if you want to survive a flight crash!

What average weight do airlines use for passengers?

Our weight is a worldwide problem, but not equally dispersed. According to the available data, the most overweight countries are the islands in the Pacific such as Nauru, Palau, Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, and Tuvalu. In the United States, more than 70,2 % of the population is overweight or obese. In Europe, the countries with the most overweight citizens are Greece, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Iceland.

Since the 1980s, airline seats have been constantly shrinking, yet passengers have been getting bigger and bigger. While bags could be weighed before the flight, the weight of the passengers is generally averaged and estimated. Different regulators recommend different figures.

The Federal Aviation Administration in the USA estimates the average male passenger’s weight at 90.7 kg in summer and 93 kg in winter. Female passengers are averaged at 81,2 kg in summer, and 83,5 kg in winter. Children weigh 37,2 kg in summer, and 39,5 kg in winter. These figures include hand luggage.

The European Aviation Safety Agency estimates that men weigh 84,6 kg, women 66,6 kg, and children 30,7 kg.

To extend the safety margin, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority in Australia has a sliding scale, depending on the size of the aircraft. Passengers’s weight is estimated at 86 kg (male) and 71 kg (female) on smaller planes, down to 81.8 kg (male) and 66.7 kg (female) on larger ones.

Tui miscalculation

In 2020, the Tui airline's new software update resulted in a possibly dangerous miscalculation. On a flight from Birmingham to Majorca, 38 passengers identified as Miss instead of Mrs, and the reservation system assigned them the child's weight. The actual weight of the aircraft was thus more than a tonne heavier than what the figures were showing. Luckily, the flight operation was safe in the end, and the software was soon amended.

Do airlines weigh people?

Airlines should weigh a sample of their passengers every 3 to 5 years, to keep the figures updated. While airlines can indeed ask passengers about their weight, participation in these surveys is normally voluntary.

However, there are remote regions of the world where weighing passengers by airlines is a common practice. Such is the case with smaller aircraft in some destinations in Australia, where one could be asked to be weighed before boarding.

In Samoa, one of the world’s most obese countries, a short-lived operator Samoa Air introduced a pay-as-you-weigh system in 2013, describing it as the concept of the future. “A kilo is a kilo is a kilo”, explained the CEO Chris Langton. The flight rates ranged from 1 to 4.16 dollars per kilogram (for a passenger + bag combo), and the idea was promoted as the fairest way of traveling.

In 2016, Hawaiian Airlines also noticed that their flights to American Samoa are often overweight. This airline started weighing their passengers regularly, but only for the reasons of even weight distribution in the cabin.

What can fat people on planes expect?

How fat is too fat to fly?

“Am I too fat to fly?”, you wonder. Even though there are no weight limits for fat people on planes, there are normally three basic requirements for flying while plus size:

• Passengers must be able to sit with both armrests down.
• Passengers must be able to buckle their seatbelts.
• The aisle must not be blocked by a passenger.

What happens if you can’t fit in an airplane seat?

If the passenger cannot comply with the above-mentioned requirements for a comfortable flight, he or she will be offered to purchase an additional seat. Typically, the second seat could be bought at a discount, and in the case that the flight is not full, the purchase could be eligible for a full refund.

If there are no additional seats available on a particular flight, the passenger who is too fat to fit in the airplane seat comfortably will have to deboard and reschedule their flight.

How do I know if I will fit in an airplane seat?

How do you know if you will be too fat for a plane seat? There are two elements you could check beforehand: the airline seat width and the seatbelt size.

From 48 cm (19 inches) in 1985, the width of the plane seats has shrunk to as low as 41 cm (16.1 inches). As the situation differs from airline to airline, aircraft to aircraft, and even a section of the aircraft to a section of the aircraft, it is best to check out the exact seat width on a flight you are looking to book on SeatGuru‘s maps.

As for the seatbelt size, it typically ranges from 100 cm (39 inches) on Southwest Airlines to 130 cm (51 inches) on Hawaiian Airlines. A seatbelt extender will normally add 64 extra centimeters (25 inches).

Is it embarrassing to ask for a seatbelt extender?

As if flying while fat doesn’t draw enough attention by itself, there is often a notion of embarrassment and humiliation connected to the fact that fat people on airplanes need to ask for seatbelt extenders.

Some passengers of size even end up avoiding the feeling of shame by trying to pretend they are all buckled up. This is certainly not recommendable as seatbelts are essential safety devices in the case of an emergency.

The way to minimize the stress is to try to board before others and request the seatbelt extender as soon as you enter the airplane, or sit in the aisle seat so you can discreetly signal or whisper your needs to the flight attendant. They are distributing the seatbelt extenders on every flight, so you should really not approach it as a big deal.

Can I buy my own seatbelt extender?

If you want to avoid the conversations on airplane seatbelt extenders altogether, an option is indeed to purchase your own. Check out this affordable universal seatbelt extender for your next plane journey!

When does overweight become obese?

The most common way for identifying obesity among adults is by calculating the Body Mass Index (BMI). All you need to know is your weight and height. The formula is BMI = kg/m2, which means you should divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. The number you will get is your BMI.

 	
If your BMI is less than 18,5, you are underweight.
 	
If your BMI is between 18,5 and 25, you have a healthy weight.
 	
If your BMI is between 25 and 30, you are overweight.
 	
If your BMI is between 30 and 40, you are obese.
 	
If your BMI is higher than 40, you are severely obese (formerly called morbidly obese).


The formula is not reliable for muscular people, such as athletes and bodybuilders. They could have a higher BMI, but optimal levels of fat. That is why an additional measure of waist size could be a useful correction for higher BMI. Typically, you might develop obesity-related problems if your waist circumference is higher than 94 cm for men or 85 cm for women.

Best seats for fat people on planes

What is the best seat on a plane for a fat person?

Intuitively, passengers of size might reach for extra legroom seats, but that is not always the smartest choice. For instance, the armrests could be fixed making the seat even narrower, and you will not be allowed to wear a seatbelt extender in the emergency exit row. A bulkhead seat could come with a set of similar limitations. Sitting in the back of the plane is also not ideal as the last row seats do not recline.

If you are a person of size, always consult the plane map before picking your seat. Aim for the middle of the cabin, closer to the wings, where turbulences are more bearable. According to your preferences, you might choose to sit closer to the galley, if you think you would need assistance often, or closer to the bathrooms, in case that’s where you would gravitate.

When a row has three seats, never choose the middle one! If you can control your bladder, opt for a window seat. If you think you will have to get out of your seat often, pick the aisle seat. But keep in mind that sitting in the aisle seat means you will be getting up for your fellow passengers too, whenever they feel the urge to go to the bathroom.

Can a fat person fit in an airplane bathroom?

These days, anyone using the plane lavatory needs to have some basic contortionist skills. While aiming to squeeze even more human sardines into the plane, airlines have shrunk the plane bathrooms too. Currently, the smallest loos are 61 cm wide (24 inches).

To not rely on circus techniques when you need to go, you can ask flight attendants for a wheelchair-accessible bathroom, or alternatively for mercy to let you visit the first class.

Hear real experiences of overweight passengers in “Flying While Fat”, a short documentary animation by British fat activist and artist Stacy Bias!

Best airlines for plus-size passengers

Different airlines handle plus-size passengers differently. So which ones provide more comfort? What are the best airlines for overweight passengers?

Air Canada could give you more than 51 cm wide seats (20.2 inches). But even if you have to sit in those that are 43 cm wide (17 inches), the good news is that Air Canada gives its plus-size passengers a free extra seat on domestic flights, as long as they bring the doctor’s notice. Air Canada’s obese passenger policy is aligned with the government’s policy classifying obesity as a disability.

Among other fat-friendly airlines in the world, we could include Japan Airlines, Bangkok Airways, China Southern Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, and Emirates.

What about the plus-size-friendly airlines in the United States? JetBlue welcomes overweight passengers in seats that are at least 46 cm wide (18 inches), Delta Airlines gives at least 45 cm (17.9 inches), while low-cost Spirit Airlines offers ‘Big Front Seats’ that are 51 cm (20 inches) wide.

Whichever seat or airline you end up choosing, you will find the cheapest flights on this link! During the Black Friday promotion, get a special discount if booking before December 5th, with the promo code "BFRIDAY40"!    

Plus-size flight hacks – 15 tips for flying while fat

When we fly, we cannot always choose all aspects of our experience, simply because we need to get from point A to point B at a certain time. Still, there are ways that obese people on planes can improve their experience of flying. These plus-size flying tips and hacks will help you prepare for the stressless journey!

1. Travel in off-peak hours and seasons.

If you choose to fly in off-peak hours or low season to your destination, there might be a greater chance of finding empty plane seats you could stretch over. These could be the earliest flights in the day, or generally the shoulder season at your destination of choice when the weather is still fine, but the touristic pressure vanishes. Your wallet will love you too.

2. Collect miles and points.

Join the airline’s loyalty program. As you will be traveling more and more, the accumulated award points or miles could come in handy when you want to upgrade your seat to business class, where seats are considerably more comfortable.

3. Book an aisle seat.

If you cannot afford a higher booking class than the economy, an aisle seat is usually the best pick for passengers of size. It will provide you with more comfort as you will be able to get up and stretch as you like, without crawling over fellow seatmates. If the flight is short enough that you feel you won’t need to get up as often, you could consider booking the window seat.

4. Travel in a company.

Traveling in the company of a friend, a family member or a partner will make it significantly easier for you. You will avoid the situations with annoyed passengers you rubbed your shoulder with, and generally have moral support in potentially stressful moments.

5. Dress simply.

To avoid unpleasant security check issues, try to dress simply, with no metal parts that could trigger additional security checks. Wear shoes you can easily take off and put back on, and loose clothes you feel most comfortable in.

6. Check the seating situation with the gate agent.

Kindly approach the gate agent while waiting for the flight, and ask if it’s possible to check the situation with the seating. You might just be able to get reseated to a row with fewer passengers.

7. Head to the restroom before boarding.

Airport restrooms are much spacier than those on the plane. Using them might help you skip the entire experience of trying to squeeze yourself into the plane lavatory.

8. Board among the first passengers.

In a narrow aisle, crowded with people looking for their seats and place to store their carry-on, overweight passengers might struggle to navigate. That’s why you should board as soon as the gate opens, and find your seat with no pressure.

9. Get the airplane seatbelt extender.

Pre-boarding also allows you to ask flight attendants for a seatbelt extender without large social pressure around you. Alternatively, purchase your own.

10. Ask flight attendants if you can switch seats.

If it feels crowded in your row, discretely ask the flight attendant’s assistance in finding you a potentially roomier area. Sitting next to a skinny person or a child will put you in a more relaxed state of mind than constantly thinking about how to scrunch up yourself smaller and non-obstructive.

11. Meet your fellow passengers.

Put a smile on, say ‘hi’, and introduce yourself to the passengers you will be sharing the row with. It might not be the start of a friendship, but being kind at the beginning might set the tone of the entire experience differently.

12. Travel with a carry-on.

If your luggage gets lost or delayed, your airline or insurance company could reimburse you for buying the necessary clothes. However, for larger passengers, it might be difficult to find an adequate clothing size at the destination. That’s why you should try to travel with a carry-on, or at least always have some clothes of your size easily accessible.

13. Make a sandwich for the trip.

You want to avoid the situation of ordering a meal on the plane only to find out that you are too fat for an airplane tray table. To avoid the situation where your body obstructs the opening of the tray table, bring your own sandwiches and snacks instead, and eat them at your leisure.

14. Stretch periodically.

Just because you think you might cause inconvenience for others, that doesn’t mean you should ignore your need for moving. It is good to get up from your seat every two hours, stretch your legs, rotate your ankles, flex your toes, and have a walk. That’s the best way to avoid the risk of deep vein thrombosis, a serious jeopardy for obese airline passengers.

15. Pay a guest visit to the first class.

Put on your best puppy eyes and politely ask the flight attendant if it would be possible to use the bathroom in the first class. That one is typically more spacious than those squeezed in the coach section, and with a steward full of understanding, you might unexpectedly upgrade your toilet visit experience.

Fat people on planes – Conclusion

If one is overweight, it doesn’t mean he or she should settle for a sedentary lifestyle. People of size also want to travel, but the travel industry is rarely designed to accommodate them.

This doesn’t mean that the urge for traveling among the large-bodied passengers is dying down. In 11 years, nearly 22,000 people joined the Facebook community for fat passengers. In 2015, a subgroup for superfat passengers had to be formed, with 2.400 members now.

Why do airlines insist on humiliating the largest among us with toilets the size of their shirt?

World statistics tell us that overweight people have become a dominant group in certain societies. Instead of accommodating the growing market in the last four decades, airlines were doing exactly the opposite: shrinking the plane seats, and trying to raise their profits at the cost of passengers’ comfort. But people who should travel in those smaller seats are actually growing.

Should obese passengers go on a plane with a feeling of guilt, or should the regulators rethink the norms that were formed in the past?

There is no passenger weight limit that would rule out a fat person from flying on a plane. So why do airlines insist on humiliating the largest among us with toilets the size of their shirt or seatbelts the size of their necklace?

Indeed, for plus-size people sometimes it is easier to just give up and admit that they are “too fat to fly”.

Labels are blooming in our society, but maybe using the transport to get from one point to another should be exempt from them.

Airline obesity policies are sometimes merely a marketing stunt. But the market is changing, and it is not enough to use the buzzwords to draw people’s attention anymore. The public expects airlines to accommodate a variety of travelers, from chubby flyers to those who manage to squeeze in the current seat configurations more easily. We all deserve enough space when traveling.

Did you have an experience of flying while fat? If you want to share the experience of fat people on planes, please leave a comment below!

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This post was originally published on May 17th, 2022, and was updated on November 7th, 2023.

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The post Fat People on Planes: How to Survive Flying While Fat appeared first on Pipeaway.