5 Surprising Facts about the Cabin Crew Job

The cabin crew job might seem glamorous—jetting off to exotic places, meeting fascinating people, and working above the clouds. But behind the smiles and service trolleys, there’s a world of quirky, sometimes downright weird things that cabin crew do and know that most people would never imagine. Here are 5 of our favourite surprising facts about what it’s really like to be cabin crew.

1. Cabin Crew Have Secret Codes to Talk About You

Ever heard cabin crew say something that sounded cryptic or use a code over the intercom that didn’t make sense? That’s not your imagination! They use secret codes to discreetly communicate about situations on the plane. Whether it’s pointing out a suspicious passenger, alerting each other to a medical emergency, or identifying someone who’s being a bit over friendly, these codes help them keep things under control without alarming other passengers. So, if you hear a flight attendant say something like, “We’ve got a 2-4-3 in the aisle,” you’ll never know if it’s a spilled drink or something more intriguing!

2. They Know the Best Place to Stow a Body (Yes, Really)

It’s not something they ever hope to deal with, but cabin crew are trained for all kinds of emergencies—including handling death on board. If a passenger passes away mid-flight, there’s a procedure for what to do. Depending on the aircraft and how full the flight is, the body might be moved to an empty row or seat, covered, and secured until the plane lands. In some cases, they might even use the crew rest area. It’s a morbid topic, but part of the cabin crew job is extensive safety training includes keeping the flight calm and organised, even in the event of a death.

3. They’ve Got Super-Human Hydration Techniques

Cabin crew know a thing or two about hydration—after all, they’re working in an environment where dehydration happens fast. The dry, pressurized air on planes can zap moisture from your body, leading to fatigue, headaches, and dry skin. While you might sip on your tiny water cup, flight attendants are trained to hydrate in a more strategic way. Some will sneak in sips between service or use hydrating sprays and lotions to protect their skin. Others swear by electrolyte-packed drinks and even adjust their diets to avoid feeling sluggish on long-haul flights. They know the importance of hydration, not just for looking fresh, but for staying sharp and alert.

4. They’re Masters at Packing (and It’s Not What You Think)

Sure, they can pack a suitcase better than most of us, but what’s really impressive is how cabin crew pack their meals. Many cabin crew bring their own food, knowing the meals on board are often processed, high in sodium, and don’t always fit with their dietary needs. You might see them with perfectly prepped salads, protein-packed snacks, or special energy-boosting meals tucked away in their bags. They know how to make a meal that’ll keep them energised through long shifts while avoiding the dreaded mid-flight bloat.

5. They’re Trained for Every Kind of Emergency… Even Childbirth

The cabin crew job isn’t just handling turbulence and unruly passengers —crew are also trained in how to help deliver a baby mid-flight! Yep, part of their medical training includes basic childbirth assistance. While it’s incredibly rare for someone to go into labor during a flight (and airlines often discourage women from flying late in pregnancy), if it happens, the cabin crew will be the first to spring into action. They’re taught how to keep the mother calm, manage the situation, and prepare for an emergency landing if needed. So, the next time you’re flying, know that your cabin crew are prepared for literally anything!

In conclusion – cabin crew aren’t just there to serve drinks and point out the exits—they’re highly trained professionals who can handle a wide range of weird, wonderful, and sometimes challenging situations. So, the next time you fly, take a moment to appreciate the behind-the-scenes skills that keep you safe, hydrated, and possibly even alive!

Is this the job for you? From secret codes to superhuman packing skills, the cabin crew job is a fascinating one that goes far beyond what meets the eye. If you fancy learning life skills you might never get trained on in another career then let us help you. Head to our online store where you will find everything you need to land that dream job and start your cabin crew career ASAP.