Ever wondered what it’s like to work as cabin crew for a Middle Eastern airline? Today, a seasoned cabin crew member shares with us some of the most surprising and challenging experiences they’ve experienced in the skies. From unusual passenger behaviour to unexpected hygiene issues, these stories shed light on the less glamorous side of flying and highlight the incredible patience and professionalism required to manage these situations.
11 Disturbing Things Cabin Crew Have Seen on Planes
Here are 11 of the most shocking and disturbing things cabin crew have seen during flights:
1. Improper Disposal of Hygiene Products
One of the first things we brace ourselves for during a long-haul flight is the possibility of finding used diapers in the most unexpected places. From seat pockets to under seats, these surprises can turn up anywhere. Often, passengers from regions with limited sanitary facilities may not be familiar with in-flight disposal methods. Some passengers come from very poor countries where they might not have access to proper facilities, so they are unsure of how to properly dispose of items like diapers.
2. Unfortunate Seat Incidents
Imagine boarding a plane and finding that a passenger has had an accident on their seat. Yes, it happens more often than you’d think. This can be a particularly distressing situation for everyone involved, including the passenger who might not be accustomed to modern restroom facilities. Some passengers even board flights without shoes or luggage, indicating they may not have regular access to amenities we take for granted. Our protocol involves safely managing the situation, often relocating the passenger and thoroughly cleaning the area, all while maintaining professionalism and empathy.
3. Handling Unexpected Waste
Believe it or not, some passengers have handed us bottles of urine. This usually happens because passengers either can’t hold it any longer, especially if the fasten seat belt sign has been on for an extended period, or they aren’t aware of where the restrooms are located on the plane. Our immediate response is to safely dispose of these items and explain the proper facilities available on board, all while keeping the interaction as discreet as possible.
4. Managing Passenger Sickness
Vomit is another common issue, whether due to turbulence, motion sickness, or just overindulgence. As cabin crew, we have to handle these situations efficiently to minimise discomfort for all passengers. This includes cleaning up quickly and ensuring that the affected area is sanitised, often with limited resources.
5. Inappropriate Use of Galley Areas
One of the more shocking experiences involves passengers using the galley area for purposes it was never intended for. Some passengers, possibly unfamiliar with the aircraft layout, have urinated in the galley. This creates a serious hygiene issue and requires immediate action to clean and sanitise the area, all while ensuring that food and beverage services are not compromised.
6. Pest Issues on Board
Occasionally, we come across cockroaches on the plane. While not a direct result of passenger behaviour, these pests can hitch a ride on board through catering supplies or luggage. As crew, we have to manage this situation without alarming passengers, often working quietly to ensure the pests are dealt with promptly.
7. Sanitation Challenges in Lavatories
Discovering poop on the toilet flap is an especially unpleasant part of the job. When this happens, we have to lock the affected lavatory and inform the passengers that it’s out of service. Some passengers, unfamiliar with modern plumbing, might not know how to properly use these facilities. This can be challenging, especially on long flights with limited restrooms, but safety and hygiene come first.
8. Inappropriate Diaper Changing Practices
Some passengers, unaware of hygiene standards, use tray tables to change their babies’ diapers. This is a big no-no, as it leaves the area unsanitary for the next passenger. We intervene as politely as possible, explaining the correct procedures and ensuring the tray tables are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
9. The Dirty Feet Dilemma
Dirty feet on seats is another frequent issue. Some passengers, possibly from backgrounds where removing shoes indoors is not customary, might not see anything wrong with this. However, it’s unhygienic and disrespectful to others. We often have to ask passengers to remove their feet and explain the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
10. Handling Hygiene Product Disposal
Finding a used tampon on the floor is rare but happens. Passengers from areas without proper sanitary disposal might not know how to handle such items on a plane. We discreetly handle the situation, ensuring the item is disposed of safely and the area is cleaned.
11. Confusion Over Water Sources
One of the most shocking things I’ve seen is a passenger trying to scoop water from a clogged toilet into a bottle. This can happen due to unfamiliarity with aircraft facilities or desperation. Some passengers, especially from very poor backgrounds, might mistakenly believe the water is drinkable. We quickly intervene, explaining that the water isn’t safe to drink and assist the passenger in getting what they need.
Conclusion: The Unseen Challenges of Cabin Crew Life
These stories reveal just a few of the many challenges cabin crew face while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. We deal with everything from the routine to the bizarre, all while ensuring that every passenger has a safe and pleasant journey. It’s important to remember that many of these behaviours come from a lack of exposure to modern conveniences and should be met with understanding and compassion.
The next time you board a plane, remember the crew members who work tirelessly to ensure a clean and comfortable journey, often dealing with situations that are far from glamorous.
Have you ever witnessed or heard about any unusual experiences on a flight? We’d love to hear your stories! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below.
And if you’re curious about a career as a cabin crew member or have any questions, join our cabin crew forum where seasoned flight attendants can answer your queries and give you an insider’s view of life at 30,000 feet.
What are the most disturbing things you have seen during your flights as a cabin crew member?