Some features to flying

Flying can be an exciting adventure full of safety measures most of us don't understand or enjoy.

Let's investigate some of these and other measures taken on planes. 

1. Planes are Designed to be Struck by Lightning

On average, each aircraft is struck by lightning once a year. Thanks to meticulous engineering, the electric charge passes through the plane and exits without causing any damage, ensuring a safe journey for everyone on board.

2. Emergency Oxygen Masks Last Only About 15 Minutes

Apparently it's more than enough time for the plane to descend to a lower altitude where passengers can breathe normally.

3. There are Secret Bedrooms for Flight Crew

Some planes, like the Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliners, have hidden bedrooms for the flight crew. These secret compartments, accessed via a hidden staircase, include beds, a bathroom, and sometimes even in-flight entertainment, allowing the crew to rest and stay alert.

4. Airplane Tires are Incredibly Durable

They can support weights of up to 38 tons and withstand landing speeds of 170 mph more than 500 times before needing a retread.

These tires are inflated to 200 psi, which is about six times the pressure used in car tires.

5. Cabin Lights are Dimmed During Landings at Night for Safety

This practice helps passengers' eyes adjust to the darkness outside, which can be crucial in the event of an emergency evacuation.

6. Pilots and Copilots Eat Different Meals

To minimize the risk of food poisoning affecting the entire flight crew, pilots and copilots on major airlines are required to eat different meals.

This precaution ensures that if one meal causes illness, the other pilot remains unaffected and can safely operate the plane.

7. The Air You Breathe on a Plane is Cleaner Than You Think

Modern aircraft are equipped with HEPA filters that remove 99.97% of airborne particles, including bacteria and viruses. The air is refreshed every 2-3 minutes, making it cleaner than the air in most buildings.

The humidity level however is only around 10 to 20%. This is lower than the humidity in the air of the Sahara Desert. So, for long flights it’s a good idea to drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.

We hope that the next time you board a plane, you'll have a new appreciation for the incredible engineering and planning that goes into every flight.

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