While flying is a mode of travel millions of people use every day, there are still plenty of mysteries surrounding how airplanes work, what you’re allowed to bring on board, and what happens once you’re in the air. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, chances are you’ve heard various myths about flying. Below, we debunk 10 of the most common myths about air travel—so next time you fly, you’ll know exactly what’s real and what’s simply a myth!
Myth 1: Pilots avoid the Bermuda Triangle
Fact: The Bermuda Triangle, located in the northern Caribbean, gained notoriety due to myths about ships and planes mysteriously disappearing there. However, the Bermuda Triangle poses no special danger. Pilots don’t avoid it and routinely fly over the area without any issues.
Myth 2: Being born on a plane grants lifetime free flights
Fact: While a baby born mid-flight in 2017 was awarded lifetime free flights by the airline, this is a rare exception. Most airlines don’t offer free flights to babies born on board. Additionally, since airlines restrict travel after the 36th week of pregnancy, such occurrences are quite rare.
Myth 3: Planes mostly fly on autopilot
Fact: Many believe planes fly on autopilot except during takeoff and landing, but this isn’t true. Autopilot functions like an advanced GPS, assisting with navigation and positioning, but it doesn’t replace the pilot. Pilots are highly trained and remain in control throughout the flight, with autopilot serving as a helpful tool to reduce fatigue.
Myth 4: Phones interfere with navigation systems
Fact: You’re asked to switch off your phones during takeoff and landing, leading many to believe phones could interfere with navigation systems. However, this isn’t true. The main reason for this request is to ensure passengers pay attention to safety announcements. While phones don’t interfere, it’s still important to follow crew instructions for everyone’s safety.
Myth 5: Pilots and co-pilots eat different meals
Fact: While not an official rule, many airlines encourage pilots and co-pilots to eat different meals. This precaution minimizes the risk of both being affected by food poisoning. Some airlines even recommend they eat at different times.
Myth 6: Airplane toilets dump waste mid-flight
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, airplane toilets don’t discharge waste into the air. Waste is stored in a sealed tank at the back of the aircraft, which can only be accessed and emptied by ground crews after landing.
Myth 7: Thunderstorms and lightning can bring down a plane
Fact: For those nervous about flying, storms and lightning may seem terrifying. However, modern airplanes are built to handle lightning strikes, which are quite common. Aircraft are equipped with metal shielding to keep passengers safe, and lightning won’t cause a plane to crash.
Myth 8: Pilots have emergency parachutes
Fact: Pilots don’t carry emergency parachutes—and even if they did, they couldn’t just abandon the plane mid-flight. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Rest assured, your highly trained pilot will handle any emergency rather than jumping out of the aircraft.
Myth 9: Engine failure means the plane will crash
Fact: It’s natural to fear the worst if an engine fails mid-flight, but planes are designed to glide even if both engines fail. Pilots are trained to manage engine failures and can safely operate the aircraft with just one engine or glide it to a safe landing.
Myth 10: The shortest flight path is always a straight line
Fact: If you’ve flown internationally, you might’ve noticed flight paths curving far north or south of the destination. This apparent detour is actually the shortest route due to the Earth’s curvature. When mapped on a flat surface, these paths appear curved, but they’re the most direct.
Now that you know the truth behind these common air travel myths, you can approach your next flight with confidence—and maybe even share a few fun facts with your fellow travelers!
Photo by John McArthur on Unsplash
