The flight attendant explained the measures he took to avoid getting sick on board

By TravelWiseFeb 18, 2024 10:25 AMNews
Share:
The flight attendant explained the measures he took to avoid getting sick on board
The former A380 flight attendant told us what to do to avoid getting sick on the plane. Source: Photo: Pixabay

Jay Robert spent almost 20 years in the aviation industry and as a manager led cabin crew teams aboard the world's largest commercial aircraft, the A380. He noted that he had personal experience with airplane cleanliness standards that were quite unpredictable.

Jay described some of these rules as both good and bad, and sometimes downright disgusting, saying that "these unpredictable standards make it hard to fully trust the cleaning practices of airlines." The former flight attendant named 5 ways for those who want a clean flight, reports the Daily Mail.

Take an early flight

Those who fly early usually board a clean and tidy airplane. Otherwise, the plane stays on the ground for a limited time, which is not enough for a full cleaning. In addition, some companies mistakenly assign the responsibility for cleanliness to flight attendants.

Cover the seats with blankets, not yourself

This applies to those flying economy class on long flights. It's important because the seats are not cleaned between flights, and customers may complain about dampness or dirt on the seats. Also, you should avoid the pillows provided and instead take your own compact set for convenience.

Unpleasant carpet

You should carefully examine the place where you plan to put your bag. If you notice any strange dirt, it's best to use a plastic blanket wrap to cover the floor under the bottom of your bag.

Don't take off your shoes

Given the dirt and liquids that may be on the floor, it is better to avoid possible contact with such an irritant to not spoil the flight experience. It will also help eliminate possible unbearable foot odor. As an alternative, use your own slippers, which you can take with you in your baggage claim.

Clean up after yourself

Clean up after yourself when you get off the plane. Simply wipe the seats, table, screens, and controls with a damp cloth. Also, make sure you don't leave any garbage behind.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

Internet on a Cruise: How to Avoid Huge Bills for Connectivity

Aug 6, 2025 09:14 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM
More News
Lava and ash erupting from Mount Etna at night.

Mount Etna Eruption Raises Aviation Alert Without Halting Flights

Dec 29, 2025 03:10 AM
Interior of a luxury train suite in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia’s First Luxury Train Sets Course for 2026

Dec 29, 2025 01:08 AM

First National River Walk Brings Clearer Access to Nature Near Manchester

Dec 28, 2025 00:39 AM

Winter Storm Brings Ground Delays After Two Aircraft Get Stuck in Snow at Kittilä Airport

Dec 27, 2025 23:55 PM
American Airlines aircraft approaching Dallas–Fort Worth

American Airlines Rethinks Dallas–Fort Worth Hub with Major Schedule Overhaul

Dec 27, 2025 22:42 PM
Crowded beach in Hawaii with visitors relaxing near the ocean on a sunny day

Visitor Costs Rise Again as Hawaii Approves Green Fee Rollout

Dec 27, 2025 22:38 PM
Hotel room with large windows overlooking Manila at sunset

AC Hotels Makes Manila Debut, Adding Choice for City Stays

Dec 26, 2025 23:25 PM
Japan Airlines aircraft operating an international flight

JAL to Offer Limited-Edition Japanese Whisky on International Flights in 2026

Dec 26, 2025 22:32 PM
Wind-bent tree branches during strong gusts

Western Estonia Braces for Windy Conditions That May Slow Island Travel

Dec 26, 2025 21:49 PM

Long-Haul Incentives and Airline Loyalty Offers Post-Christmas Flight Sales Take Off in Edinburgh

Dec 26, 2025 20:26 PM

China Eastern International Flights at Guangzhou to Move to Terminal 3

Dec 26, 2025 00:33 AM
Ryanair aircraft parked on the apron at sunrise

Ryanair’s Booking Model Under Pressure in Italy as Appeal Looms

Dec 25, 2025 23:54 PM
Jet2 aircraft operating seasonal winter services

Jet2 Expands Christmas Flights to Gdańsk for Winter 2026

Dec 25, 2025 23:47 PM
Red South Western Railway train passing through a station platform

Festive Rail Changes at Waterloo Will Affect Visitor Journeys Across London

Dec 25, 2025 23:31 PM
Four people hold a Chelsea football shirt with “Pegasus 25” on the pitch of an empty stadium

Chelsea FC partnership marks new chapter with possible travel implications

Dec 25, 2025 01:29 AM

What Travellers Should Expect From Amsterdam’s Organised New Year Festivities

Dec 25, 2025 00:36 AM

Air India Brings Back Delhi–Rome Non-Stop Flights in Spring 2026

Dec 24, 2025 23:52 PM
A modern passenger train stopped at a covered station platform

Travellers Warned of Altered Rail Links Over Christmas Period

Dec 24, 2025 23:28 PM
Orange windsock blowing strongly against cloudy sky

Strong holiday winds could disrupt Christmas journeys

Dec 24, 2025 22:35 PM
IHG and local partners signing hotel agreement in Dhangadhi

An International Hotel Brand Is Coming to Dhangadhi in 2028

Dec 24, 2025 06:54 AM
New Year light installation near Amsterdam city centre

Amsterdam Marks New Year With Extra Controls in Busy Districts

Dec 24, 2025 05:37 AM
ScotRail train at a station platform in Scotland

Festive Rail Travel In Scotland Shifts Focus to Boxing Day

Dec 24, 2025 04:22 AM

Direct Charter Flights Link Gdańsk with Kenya and Sri Lanka

Dec 24, 2025 03:45 AM

easyJet Rolls Out Major January Sale Covering 2026 Travel

Dec 24, 2025 03:38 AM
Hurghada coastline with Red Sea resorts

Aalborg Launches Direct Winter Charter to Hurghada

Dec 24, 2025 03:23 AM
Flooded street with submerged bicycle and traffic sign

Severe Weather Warnings Put Evening Travel Across Southern France at Risk

Dec 23, 2025 21:46 PM