How to Stay Safe While Flying

Understand how to securely fasten your seat belt. Insert the metal end into the buckle until you hear it click, then pull on the strap to tighten. To release it, simply lift the buckle's flap. Keep in mind that if you're seated in a first or premium-class cabin, the seatbelt may have 3 points instead of the typical lap belt.

Make sure your seat belt is fastened whenever the "Fasten Seat Belt" sign is illuminated. During this time, it's unsafe to leave your seat due to possible turbulence or changes in altitude. If you’re using the airplane lavatory, wash your hands and promptly return to your seat.

Always fasten your seat belt while seated. In case of sudden turbulence, this will prevent you from being tossed into the overhead compartment.

Fasten your seat belt during any emergency situation. This applies if there is any reason to bring the plane to the ground, such as cabin pressure loss, engine failure, fuel shortage, or any other serious malfunction.

Fasten your seat belt whenever you're told to do so. While this list isn't exhaustive, if a flight attendant or the captain gives the instruction to secure your seatbelt, it's essential to follow their guidance.

Make sure your seat belt is visible over your blankets. On long-haul flights, you might want to rest without being disturbed. To avoid this, ensure that your seatbelt is clearly visible even when you're sleeping.

Turn off your PEDs or switch them to airplane/flight mode during taxi, takeoff, and landing. These critical moments require clear communication with Air Traffic Control for a safe flight operation. Using PEDs can interfere with aircraft systems, posing a danger to both you and your fellow passengers.

Ensure your PEDs are in airplane mode for the entire flight. Transmitting devices can be hazardous when the plane is in the air. Many airlines and the FCC mandate that PEDs be in airplane mode from the moment the boarding door is closed. This helps to prevent any electronic transmissions during the flight.

Be aware that certain PEDs are prohibited during the flight. Depending on the device, you may be required to turn it off entirely for part or all of the journey.

• Phones and tablets can be used in airplane mode throughout the flight, provided they are secured. Devices without airplane mode functionality cannot be used. If your phone or tablet falls between seats, inform a flight attendant for help. Never attempt to retrieve it yourself, as this could cause injury or damage to the device, potentially leading to smoke or fire.
• Laptops and larger tablets must be stowed under the seat in front of you (or beneath your own seat) during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
• Power banks can be used during the flight depending on the airline's policies. They must always remain in your carry-on, never checked luggage.
• Radio devices, including remote-controlled toys, FM/AM radios, and walkie-talkies, are not permitted at any point during the flight, along with any transmitting devices that do not offer an airplane mode option.

Know when you're allowed to use PEDs. PEDs can be used when instructed by the flight crew (in addition to the above guidelines). They must be powered off whenever the 'Please turn off electronic devices' sign is illuminated.

Understand cabin pressurization. All aircraft cabins are pressurized. If the cabin pressure changes, oxygen masks will drop from above. Secure your seatbelt, pull the mask towards you to begin oxygen flow, then place the elastic band over your head and tighten it with the straps. Don’t worry if the plastic bag doesn’t inflate, just breathe normally.

• Always put your mask on first, before helping others.

Identify your closest emergency exit. These exits are usually labeled "Exit" and may include additional languages, or have the standard green background with a white door and a figure with arrows pointing in both directions. In case of power failure, or smoke or fog, lights and strips throughout the cabin will guide you.

• Keep in mind, the nearest exit may be behind you.

Be aware that if you're seated near an emergency exit, you might be asked to help others during an evacuation. If you’re unable or unwilling to assist, inform a flight attendant and request to be reseated.

Know how to operate an emergency exit. These exits are heavy and can be opened by pulling a strap or handle. In most cases, emergency slides will automatically deploy when the door is armed. Most emergency exits are equipped with slides, though some may have stairs or require you to exit onto the wing. Many slides, except those over wings, can also serve as life rafts in case of a water landing.

Understand when it's safe to open an emergency exit. If you encounter smoke, fire, water, or any other hazard that could endanger passengers, avoid using that exit and look for another.

Learn how to wear a life vest. Open the pouch, wrap the buckle or string around your body, and tighten it. Inflate the vest by pulling the tabs or by blowing into the tubes. Each life vest is equipped with a white light that activates when it touches water. Some vests are designed for children and infants. Never inflate your life vest while still inside the aircraft.

• The location of life vests may differ depending on the aircraft and class. Typically, life vests are stored under the seats in economy class, beside the seats in first and business class, or in an overhead compartment above your seat.

Know the steps to evacuate. When landing, brace for impact, unbuckle your seatbelt, and head for the nearest emergency exit. Slide down the evacuation chute or use the stairs to exit. If over water, put on a life vest or grab a seat cushion to float. Remove any sharp items, such as high heels or shoes, to avoid damaging the slide or causing injury. Leave personal belongings behind as they could block the aisle, slow evacuation, or damage the slide.

Smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited. Smoking and using e-cigarettes or vapes is banned on all flights, no matter the airline. The risk of fire from burning cigarettes, combined with the pressurized cabin, makes it dangerous for everyone, and it's illegal. Every lavatory is equipped with smoke detectors. Tampering with or disabling these detectors is a serious offense and can result in heavy fines or criminal charges, along with potential inclusion on the airline's no-fly list.

Always follow crew instructions, posted signs, and illuminated placards. These exist for your safety and to remind you of what’s allowed and what’s not on the plane.

• If you have any doubts about the rules, don’t hesitate to ask a crew member for clarification.

Never talk about hijacking, explosives, bombs, firearms, knives, or other dangerous weapons aboard the aircraft. If you're watching a movie or playing a game that involves sound effects, use headphones to avoid being misunderstood as a threat.

Show respect to others. Airlines will not hesitate to remove passengers who disrupt others' peace. For example, avoid opening nuts if someone nearby has a nut allergy, and always stop whatever you're doing if another passenger asks you to.

Maintain good hygiene. Airplanes are a breeding ground for germs due to confined spaces. Always use the baby-changing tables in the lavatories for diaper changes and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

• Be cautious when eating food off surfaces like trays, seats, and seat pockets, as others may not have been as hygienic as you.
• If you or someone you know has a weakened immune system, consider wearing a KN95 or surgical mask to protect yourself from potential viruses.

Get ready for takeoff. Put your electronic devices in airplane mode, or turn them off and stow them away. Ensure your tray tables are up, your seat back is upright, your window blinds are open, armrests are down, and monitors are folded back as the flight attendants prepare the cabin.