About four billion passengers buy tickets to fly every year. That’s an astounding number of people, and it shows how popular air travel has become. However, most of those who take flights are unaware of air travel facts that might answer questions such as: Why does my food taste funny? And why is there an ashtray in the bathroom?
To give people some answers – and supply them with fun facts to reveal the next time conversation starts to lag during a social occasion – we offer the following air travel facts. They include surprising information about the history of flight, the design of the plane, and where crew members disappear in mid-flight.
1. Why Food Tastes Strange on a Plane
Many people complain about the taste of airplane food. However, they fail to give enough consideration to the fact they are traveling at 500 miles per hour in a pressurized cabin at around 30,000 feet. The dry air at that altitude, combined with the low pressure that causes a reduction in the sense of smell, impacts the function of taste buds. Studies have shown that your ability to taste drops as much as 30% on a plane. Airlines typically compensate by putting more salt and sugar in food, which makes things taste just a bit off. Also, the loud noises on a plane can impact taste buds, inhibiting the ability to taste sweet food.
Once you leave the ground, the airplane captain assumes a great deal of authority. For example, they can order the crew to restrain a passenger or do so themselves. The captain typically keeps handcuffs for this very purpose. It’s a last-option choice if they feel a passenger is putting the crew or fellow passengers into danger. While they can’t make an official arrest, they can call ahead to have local law enforcement ready to meet them when they land.
3. Some Planes Have Secret Bedrooms
While passengers stretch out in their seats on long flights, some planes (such as the Boeing 777 and 787) have a secret stairway that leads to a small number of windowless bedrooms. This allows crew members to get some sleep and re-energize, or take a power nap, without getting disturbed. In some cases, some rooms are set aside for the exclusive use of pilots. While designs differ, most planes have the crew sleeping quarters directly behind the cockpit, above the first-class seats.
4. The Safest Spot on a Plane
It’s important to understand that air travel is the safest form of travel. According to statistics, you are about 19 times safer flying in an airplane than you are traveling in a car, something most people do every day. However, if you are curious about the absolute safest place to sit, studies from Time and Popular Mechanics found that those at the back of a plane had a higher percentage chance of surviving a crash. But here’s the real takeaway: there are so few crashes that it makes it difficult to build a reliable data set on the safest seats.
As anyone who read about the 2009 Miracle on the Hudson knows, Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger safely landed a plane on the Hudson River after Canadian Geese took out both engines on the plane. That’s an example of the training pilots go through to handle bird strikes, which sometimes (but rarely) can damage a plane’s engine. Pilots are taught to fly with one engine until they can safely land. Capt. Sullenberger faced an even more dangerous situation but still handled it like a true professional.
6. Why You Still See Ashtrays in the Bathroom
Smoking hasn’t been allowed on airplanes since 1990. But still, if you visit the bathroom, you will find an ashtray. Why? Federal regulations still require them. The thinking goes like this: while smoking is banned on an aircraft, some people may still try to sneak a few puffs in the bathroom. In those cases, it’s better to give them a place to put out their cigarette than gamble with the risk they might set the plane on fire trying to put it out on the floor, wall or in the trash can.
7. Round Windows Keep You Safe
Engineers design round windows on planes for a very good reason. In the 1950s, early commercial planes exploded in air because of square windows. With squares, the four corners were weak spots that became strained with repeated pressurization, and in some cases, they cracked, leading to the fuselage breaking. Round windows have eliminated that problem.
8. Who Developed the First Jet Planes?
While the Wright Brothers got the first plane in the air at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, in 1903, that flight lasted 12 seconds and traveled 120 feet, shorter than the length of a Boeing 747. The development of passenger jets and the revolution that brought to travel came from Europe. The Germans debuted a jet-powered plane in 1939 and flew jets during World War II. After the war, Sir Geoffrey de Havilland developed the first commercial jet using engines he designed called the Ghost and the Comet. The British Overseas Aircraft Corporation started the first jetliner commercial air service on May 2, 1952, when the 44-seat de Havilland Comet 1A began making flights between London and Johannesburg, South Africa. These are eight air travel facts that many people may not know. Keep them around for social occasions or for the next time you want to surprise people with some interesting flight facts.
No matter what reason you have for taking a flight, you don’t want to step off it feeling sluggish and bloated. On the other hand, you also don’t want to exit the plane feeling ravenous. That leaves you with a conundrum: what should I eat before a flight?
Some excellent suggestions are listed below. Of course, to some degree it’s up to the individual person. Some people simply prefer French bread to pita bread, or a banana to an orange. Choose accordingly. But every item on the list should leave you feeling full (but not too full) and ready to get on with whatever business (or pleasure) brought you to your destination.
We’ve also thrown in a few suggestions for what to eat after a flight just in case you’re running late and didn’t get a chance to eat before boarding.
What To Eat Before a Flight
Before understanding what you should eat before a flight, it’s important to understand why you might feel a bit out of sorts in the first place. When a plane reaches high altitude, the air pressure in the cabin causes gas to expand. In some cases, it might expand as much as 25%. No wonder you might feel uncomfortable!
But these light meals avoid excess amounts of sugar or proteins that might cause a problem, instead focusing on complex carbohydrates that burn slowly. Keep in mind that small amounts are better than big amounts. In other words, eat less than you think you need.
Fruit and Smoothies
Bananas are a great way to start the day, even those you don’t spend at 35,000 feet. They are loaded with potassium, which means they can help you avoid leg cramps during the flight. An orange is high in vitamin C, helping keep your immune system strong. And a fruit smoothie can accomplish all that and give you a tasty beverage, as well.
Nut Butters
Small amounts of natural peanut butter or almond butter will keep you feeling full for a long period of time. They have the advantage of filling you up with a small amount. A small portion of almonds, walnuts or peanuts can do the same, both before and during the flight.
Good Bread
Making a sandwich with bread that you picked up at the bakery, such as French bread or pita bread. A small amount of hummus with pita will leave you full. With warm French bread, you can dip it into a bit of extra virgin olive oil for a tasty, filling meal that is bland and won’t upset your stomach.
Drink Water
This is especially smart during the flight. Water fills you up. It also keeps you better hydrated at high altitudes. Both will leave you feeling better when the plane lands. Avoid caffeine, as it dehydrates and may leave you unable to sleep during the flight.
Quinoa
Considered a grain but actually a seed, quinoa is a wonderful food that goes with almost anything. You can pair quinoa with fruit for a healthy pre-flight meal, or with chicken if your flight is later in the day. It fills you up with plenty of protein, but not enough to leave you feeling bloated. Brown rice can play the same role if that’s what you have on hand.
Crackers
Don’t get fancy or take chances if you find yourself pressed for time. Simply eat some crackers – low salt crackers if available. What crackers lack in culinary fireworks they make up for by being benign and filling.
What To Eat After a Flight
If you’ve kept hydrated during the flight and ate one of the foods listed above, you should arrive at your destination feeling well. Remember to avoid coffee and alcohol, as they will dehydrate you. Avoid salty snacks as well.
Once you’ve landed, you can regain energy by having some green tea. A banana is also good post-flight, as is a bit of dark chocolate. Both can relax the muscles. Another winner are antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries or grapes. A bit of protein also can elevate your energy (and mood). If you’re on the go, a good nut butter spread on crackers or yogurt and nuts can get the job done. Consider these foods as the answer to “what should I eat before a flight?” Hopefully, some of these foods sound good to you and will keep you feeling well and full (but not too full) before, during and after your flight.
Medicare typically does not pay the cost of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) unless it occurs under specific circumstances. Those circumstances involve a doctor declaring in writing in that the trip is medically necessary and a healthcare company that participates in Medicare providing the transportation.
For those interested in whether Medicare pays for NEMT, it’s important to understand the details of the rules. Since most people who use NEMT do not qualify for Medicare coverage, many people choose to instead purchase medical travel insurance.
When Does Medicare Cover Non-Emergency Medical Transportation?
Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B typically do not cover NEMT for patients to or from home. Medicare Part B may cover NEMT transportation between home and a hospital, or to another place where a person receives medical treatment or diagnosis. However, coverage requires a written certification from a doctor that the transportation was necessary to protect the patient’s health.
It’s important to note that even with a doctor certifying the trip as medically necessary, coverage is not guaranteed. The only way to be 100% sure that you will get the cost of NEMT covered in this situation is to get the doctor’s office to receive approval in advance from Medicare. Otherwise, it’s possible that a patient could have responsibility for the full cost of the trip.
That’s important to know because of the large amounts sometimes involved with medical transport costs.
Medicare Part C, or a Medicare Advantage Plan, is an option that some people choose to get Medicare benefits through a private health insurer. These plans cover whatever is included in Medicare Part A and Part B. However, in some cases, they cover more, including non-emergency medical transportation.
To find out whether that is the case with your Medicare Advantage Plan, you must contact the health insurance provider directly. Even if Medicare pays, the payments typically are capped at 80% of transportation costs.
Any chance for getting Medicare coverage will mean that the transportation meets two basic criteria.
First, the care must meet the standard for “medically necessary.” Typically, this means a physician or authorized medical provider must certify in writing that the transportation is necessary. Second, a healthcare provider who participates in Medicare must provide the transportation.
Medicare specifies that it “may” pay for “limited, medically necessary, non-emergency ambulance transportation” with a written order from a doctor. They add: “For example, someone with End-Stage Renal Disease may need medically necessary ambulance transport to a facility that furnishes renal dialysis.”
However, they also note that a health care provider may recommend services more often than Medicare covers, or recommend services Medicare does not cover. The bottom line for those who want to know if Medicare pays for NEMT is to ask questions of your doctor and, if applicable, your third-party insurance provider to find out if you are eligible for coverage. That will keep you from getting stuck with a high bill for transportation and allow you to use NEMT when it is really needed.
Given how long you sometimes must wait at baggage claim, many airline passengers’ dream is to travel without checked baggage. Doing so requires packing all your belongings into one carry-on case stored in the overhead bin during the flight. Is that even possible?
For people who have never tried to limit what they bring on their trips, the answer is likely “no.” But even the most undisciplined packer can learn how to travel lighter. It just takes planning and knowing some of the packing tips for your flight. With a bit of practice, the choice to travel without checked baggage might become your default mode for airline travel.
The ability to travel without checked baggage does not come easy for most people unless college students or people pack 10 minutes before leaving for the airport. For everyone else, some packing tips can help.
At Flying Angels, we’ve become a bit of an expert in his area because of the many flights we take each year. When you provide care for someone else who may require medical equipment and other special considerations, you learn to pack lightly. These tips can help you do the same.
The first and most important tip is to change how you think about packing for travel. You don’t need as much as you think. Some people, worried about getting caught out there in the world without something, tend to overpack and bring more than they need. If that sounds a bit like you, it’s helpful to change your way of thinking. It will help with the following steps.
Check With Airlines
In most cases, you can use a carry-on bag that is 9 x 14 x 22 inches, although some airlines may allow only smaller bags. Make sure to check and get the maximum size allowed. Also, you can use a backpack for other items, especially those you might need in flight.
Some stuff can get left behind because it’s easy to buy it cheaply once you arrive. An example might be items you can rent for outdoor activities (bike helmets, fins, snorkel, etc.) and everyday items like shampoo, conditioner, cotton swabs, etc.
You will need shirts and socks for every day. But your pants should be good for a couple of days, at least. And you might not need a heavy coat if you can re-use a sweater or hoodie with a light jacket. If your stay is longer, make plans to wash clothes after five to seven days. That’s easier than trying to pack two weeks of clothes.
Wear Your Bulky Clothes
If you have clothes that are difficult to pack, then wear them on the flight. This includes things like coats, boots, and sweaters. If you want to really push this idea to the limit, you can also put some of your items into your pockets to create more space in your carry-on case.
Use Packing Organizers
To get the most out of the space in your carry-on bag, consider buying compression bags and packing cubes that allow you to separately pack items such as clothes, laptops, cameras, smartphones, etc. Every cubic inch you save gives you a tad more room for something else.
Packing Strategies
Another approach to packing involves rolling your clothes rather than folding them. This cuts down on the space they take up and (bonus!) reduces wrinkles. Also, place shoes at the bottom and try to bring just one or two pairs. Picks shoes that will work in a variety of circumstances.
Minimize Electronics
We all want our gadgets. But most travelers don’t need that many. For example, you might not need a laptop or pad if you can do everything on your phone. And speaking of your phone, they come now with cameras that make the need to carry a separate camera unnecessary unless you’re a professional photographer.
Pack everything into your carry-on bag a few days before the trip to see how everything fits. If it doesn’t, then go through and eliminate some items. Anything you’ve packed “just in case” can usually go, for example. When you decide to travel without checked baggage, you’re making a commitment toward minimal packing. But you may also quickly learn you don’t need as much stuff as you think you need. That may even spill over to how you manage your possessions once you get back home.
Yes, you can hire a nurse to fly with you for any reason. Typically hired through Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) companies like Flying Angels, flight nurses travel with you on commercial flights, providing support getting to and from your flight and healthcare services during the flight.
You may choose to hire a nurse to fly with you for many different reasons, including having chronic health issues or injuries that prevent you from safely flying on your own. Nurses provide medical help for flying and have specialized training and certification to perform this specific job within the nursing field.
What Flight Nurses Do
Flight nurses have a specific set of skills to meet your medical needs before, during, and after a flight. Working with a NEMT company, flight nurses have training and experience in emergency situations and in delivering medical care at high altitudes.
Before the Flight
An RN Flight Coordinator works with you throughout your trip, starting with the arrangement of plans. The Flight Coordinator reviews your medical condition beforehand so they understand everything you may need. They also coordinate with your doctor or primary care provider to make sure any underlying conditions are addressed. Coordination includes reviewing procedures for particular airports and airlines. Nurses also contact airport and airline personnel ahead of time to determine any special steps needed to make your trip easier.
Flight nurses also pack the medical kit for your trip. They ensure they have all the medications you need, as well as any medical equipment. They work with transportation officials on getting your equipment through security and safely stored during the flight. They also ensure you stay on schedule and that ground transportation issues are set up and in order.
With specialized training in flight physiology, nurses understand how to administer medical care at high altitudes. They also understand and can recognize any signs of psychological distress. Their familiarity with your medical condition prepares them to see any signs of physical distress or other problems. They also know when to administer medication and check on your condition during the flight.
After Landing, flight nurses make sure you disembark safely from your plane, navigate the airport and reach your ground transportation. In some cases, flight nurses travel with you to your final destination, although most return on another flight to their point of origin.
Who Needs to Hire a Nurse to Fly?
People in many different situations want to hire a nurse to fly. The specialized skills and high level of training attained by flight nurses gives people the medical services and sense of comfort they need. Those who hire flight nurses include:
Seniors with medical conditions that prevent them from moving well on their own
People of all ages with debilitating conditions
People who are injured on trips, including to foreign destinations, who want medical care for their trip home (and help setting up a flight back)
Retirees who are relocating to a new city
People who must travel for business or personal reasons with an injury (such as a broken leg or arm)
How Do You Hire a Flight Nurse?
Hiring a flight nurse to join you on a commercial flight is convenient through a medical transportation company like Flying Angels. You can hire a nurse to fly with you to destinations within your state, in another state, or in another country. Flight Nurse companies have experience in speaking with medical doctors in the United States and abroad. They also have contacts in the healthcare and transportation fields. If you want the safety and security an experienced nurse can bring to your trip, you can hire a nurse to fly with you. It’s a smart choice for those who want to ensure they arrive at their destination on schedule and in good health. Ready to travel with confidence and care?
Contact us today to learn more about our flight nurse services and how we can assist you on your next trip.
The ability to fly across the country and around the globe has enriched the lives of millions of people. But flying, especially longer flights, also can lead to aches, pains, muscle tension and stiffness. That’s why it’s important to make in-flight exercises part of your travel itinerary.
Fortunately, there are some simple in-flight exercises you can do. You also can get into the habit of doing some pre and post-flight workouts and exercises that can help you better prepare for flying and help you relax and feel better when it is over.
Before flying, do some simple pre-flight workouts that stretch your muscles and keep you loose. Also, remember to hydrate before a flight to prep for dry plane air. It’s worth noting that many exercises work well for both pre-flight and post-flight exercises. The idea is to stretch out muscles and get the blood flowing.
If you have time, within 24 hours of your flight, put in a full workout or go for a long run (if running is your thing). That will strengthen the body and build up the immune system for the flight. It also will increase blood flow and reduce the chance of swelling in legs and feet from sitting in one place for too long.
If you only have 30 minutes or so at home before you leave, or even at the airport if there is space, you can try squats, reverse lunges, planks and push-ups.
You only have a certain degree of control during the flight. If the plane encounters turbulence, pilots may ask you to remain seated during the flight. But even so, there are in-flight exercises you can do while seated, according to the National Blood Clot Alliance. They include the following.
Ankle circles. Lift and twirl your feet as if drawing circles with your toes. Continue for 15 seconds, then reverse direction.
Foot Pumps. With your heels on the floor, lift the front of your foot as high as possible. Hold for a moment, then flatten your feet and lift your heels as high as possible, keeping the balls of your feet on the floor.
Knee lifts. Bend your leg and lift your knee to your chest, holding a moment. Put your foot back down and do the same with the other leg.
Forward Flex: With both feet on the floor, bend forward and reach for your ankles. Hold for 15 seconds and slowly return to a seated position.
Overhead Stretch: Raise both hands over your head. Grab the wrist of the opposite arm and gently pull to one side. Hold for 15 seconds, then repeat with the other arm.
If allowed by the flight crew, stand up regularly and even move a bit in the aisle, just to get your blood flowing. This will help prevent aches and reduce the risk of inflammation.
Even if you get the chance to do in-flight exercises, you still may have tight muscles and stiff joints, especially after longer flights. The best post-flight workouts involve stretches that stretch your back, open your chest and hips, and target your inner thighs and calves. Here are a few that can help. Keep in mind, these also work well for pre-flight exercises.
Resistance band. One of the best things you can invest in for a bit of post-flight exercise is a resistance band. They are not expensive and make post-flight workouts easier. You can try resistance band squats and resistance band bent over rows. You can also do hamstring, hip and chest stretches using resistance bands.
Jumping Jacks. Doing a set of jumping jacks is a great way to get the blood flowing again throughout your body.
Inchworm. This simple exercise allows you to stretch muscles in your legs and shoulders. If you’ve never done one, it works like this: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Bend at the waist, placing your hands on the floor. Walk your hands forward until reaching a “push up” position, with your hands flat and straight under your shoulders. Hold a moment. Then, slowly walk your hands back to your feet. Do this about a half dozen times.
Chest stretch. Chances are, you spent much of your flight hunched over, sleeping or looking at your phone. A simple chest stretch can open your chest. Stand with your arms stretched behind you at butt-level and your finger interlocked. As you keep your back straight and shoulder blades together, raise your arms until you can feel the stretching in your chest. Hold that position for about a half minute. Remember, you don’t have to do any of these perfectly. The idea is to stretch out your muscles and open any areas that may have tensed up or stiffened during the flight. Coupled with in-flight exercises, these pre and post-flight workouts will leave you feeling better and ready to face the rest of your day.
