12 Things Pilots Really Want Passengers to Know

We're in full swing with summer travel, with many of us traveling a lot more than we did last year. In the U.S. alone, the FAA handles around 45,000 flights every single day. During the busiest hours, there are more than 5,400 planes in the sky at once.

So if you're getting ready to start traveling more, wouldn't it be nice to know a few insider tips? From little pet peeves to big safety reminders, here's what you can learn from the most frequent fliers of all: Pilots.

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There's no denying the cost of a plane ticket has risen significantly over the last couple of years, and at times it can feel like all you're paying for is a cramped seat and a bag of pretzels. However, the cost of the ticket covers a lot more. 

Your fare helps cover everything from the salaries of highly trained pilots and flight attendants to maintenance crews, fuel, airport fees, and safety inspections. The price of the ticket might seem high, but it's also to ensure your trip is safe and smooth.

There's a lot to do during takeoff and landing, and sometimes it feels like your cabin crew are giving you a lot of instructions, but these are all to keep you safe and ensure your flight can depart on time.

For example, it's essential you take your seat and fasten your seatbelt promptly, as it helps keep the aisle clear and prepares for takeoff. You also have to turn your cellphone to airplane mode so it does not interfere with electronics or the pilot's headset.

We know arriving two hours early can feel excessive, but the extra time is worth the buffer you gain. From unpredictable lines at check-in to last-minute gate changes, a lot can happen before you even get near the boarding area. 

Arriving early helps everything run smoother for you, your fellow passengers, and the airline.

This small hack takes a few minutes but avoids delays while boarding. Take a moment to pull any belongings you might need during the flight out of your carry-on before stowing it overhead. 

When boarding, you won't block the aisle while others are trying to pass, and you also won't disturb others mid-flight. Delayed aircraft cost airlines billions of dollars each year, which ends up in ticket costs.

If you feel the cold, you'll find the back of the plane is one of the best places to sit because it's the warmest zone. That's because air flows from the front to the rear in all airplanes. Naturally, if you crave fresher air or a cooler environment, choose a seat toward the front.

No one likes it when a flight gets cancelled as it disrupts your travel plans. However, decisions like this are not taken lightly and usually have passenger safety in mind. 

If the weather conditions are atrocious or there's a mechanical problem and a flight gets cancelled, just remember that it's to avoid potential harm.

Ever wonder why the crew asks you to open your window shade during takeoff and landing?

The cabin crew needs to assess the conditions on the ground before the door is opened, so that additional visibility is critical. If there is fire or debris outside, for example, exiting would be hazardous.

On the flip side, when the lights are dimmed for overnight flights, closed shades help keep the cabin comfortable for sleeping and reduce glare from the sun.

Flying through a storm can be scary, and airplanes are hit by lightning occasionally. What many passengers don't realize is that there's a built-in lightning protector in all aircraft. 

There might be a jolt or a bang, but you will be safe. But incidents with lightning are rare, as pilots tend to avoid thunderstorms to give passengers a smoother flight.

Most commercial aircraft rely on two engines. If one fails, the other acts as a backup so the airplane can make it to land safely. However, an engine failure is an emergency, and the pilot will need to land at the nearest airport.

Many other plane components have backup systems, including hydraulic landing gear, which can be operated manually if necessary.

There are at least two pilots on commercial flights, so if one becomes unable to operate, the other can take over as a backup. They also help with other tasks and act as a second pair of eyes.

On long flights, there are usually three or four pilots to account for breaks and rest periods. So, if a pilot sits beside you on a flight, don't worry, someone else is flying the plane.

If you've ever wondered if your plane has enough fuel, you can breathe easier knowing it does. There is always a surplus to allow for delays landing or diverting to another airport. 

Pilots plan for these possibilities long before takeoff, so you're never running on empty, even if your flight plan changes midair.

Working long hours and caring for hundreds of passengers is a challenging job. Don't be that demanding, rude passenger. Instead, a little kindness and a simple thank you make a big difference to a pilot's and a flight attendant's day.

Naturally, some positivity on board means you'll depart the flight in a brighter mood too, ready to enjoy your vacation upon landing.

With over 10 million commercial flights taking off in the U.S. each year, we hope you take some of these tips with you ahead of your next flight. From backup systems to inconvenient but necessary cancellations, pilots prioritize your safety and well-being in mind.

By listening to the tips and insights shared here, you'll not only help your flight crew do their job, you'll also make your journey smoother, safer, and a lot less stressful. 

And if you're planning to start traveling more, don't forget to check out the top travel credit cards. Many of them offer perks like airport lounge access, free checked bags, and trip protection that can make every flight a little more enjoyable.