10 Common Myths About Flyer Miles and Why They’re Not True

Air travel can be a harrowing experience for a lot of people, and with such a massive amount of information (and misinformation) availability, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. From falsehoods about airplane safety to the best times to book cheap tickets, there are no shortage of myths that can overshadow your travel experience. In this blog, we’re dispelling 10 common myths about flying, to give you a better perspective on air travel so you can navigate your way through it all.

MYTH: Airplanes Are More Likely to Crash While Taking Off or Landing

Fact: Statistically, only a small portion of all accidents happen during takeoff and landing. Most airplane incidents occur during the cruise phase of flight, the overall likelihood of a plane crash is extraordinarily low (1 in 11 million or so) Airplanes come with lots of safety features, and pilots are heavily trained to deal with pretty much anything.

MYTH: At All Times, Aeroplane Mode Must Be On

Reality: You should follow your airline’s regulations, but there’s no need to turn off your phone for safety. The theory that phones mess with the aircraft’s navigation and communication systems is old news. Most modern planes are insulated from electromagnetic interference, which is why you can use your phone in the air, in airplane mode, and watch movies, communicate, etc.

Myth: The airplane seatbelt sign indicates an immediate danger

Truth: The seatbelt sign is usually lit for turbulence, not due to an immediate danger. Turbulence is a routine phenomenon, and pilots typically expect it. The seatbelt sign is for bumpy patches — a precautionary measure to protect passengers, not code for trouble ahead.

Myth: The Cabin Air Is Stale and Germ-Infested

Truth: Airplanes deploy high-efficiency filtration systems that renew the cabin air every few minutes. Air is usually recirculated every 2 to 3 minutes, and filtration systems remove bacteria and viruses so you’re breathing in air that’s been cleaned. So even though it seems stuffy, the air is actually more clean than you would think.

Fact: You’re More Likely to Get Sick from the Airplane’s Air

Truth: While it’s true that germs can spread in a confined space, the air circulating in the cabin is continually filtered, which minimizes the chances of getting sick from something in the air. The majority of passengers fall ill from exposure to germs from surfaces or other people, not air itself.

Myth: If You Want the Cheapest Rates, You Have to Book Flights on Certain Days

Myth: Booking flights on certain days of the week — Tuesdays or Wednesdays, for example — ensures the lowest fares. So, airline prices vary with demand, seasonality, and so on. You should use fare comparison websites, set alerts for price drops, and be flexible with travel dates to find the best deal.

Myth: The Most Affordable Flight Is Not Necessarily Great

Truth: It may sound good to grab the cheapest flight, but we have to think of the experience overall. Do not forget that cheap flights can also be hiding extra costs, such as baggage fees или seating assignment fees that potentially inflate the real price. Also, you will usually find fewer amenities, less comfortable seating, and longer layovers with budget airlines. It’s often worth some extra money for improved service, fewer layovers and extra amenities.

Myth: If Your Flight Is Delayed, It’s Always the Airline’s Fault

TRUTH: It’s true that airlines are occasionally to blame for delays, but many contributing factors are outside their control — weather conditions, air traffic control issues, even airport congestion. Pilots and flight crews do their best to keep flights running, but there are outside factors that can make a flight behind schedule. What matters is being aware and knowing why the delay has happened.

Myth: 3-Hour Airport Arrivals for Domestic Flights

Truth: The general advice to make sure you get to the airport 2 hours ahead of a domestic flight works well with most airlines. But it’s always a good idea to consult your airline for specific guidelines, particularly if you’re traveling during high travel periods or have special needs (such as checked baggage). Advice is the same for international flights: arrive 3 hours before.

Myth: Transporting Medical Experts Is Too Tricky

The truth: Flight attendants receive extensive first aid training, and many are certified in CPR and other life-saving techniques. In addition, many commercial flights now carry medical kits, and some even have access to ground-based physicians who can provide real-time recommendations when medical emergencies arise. Pilots are trained to respond to emergencies as well, and will land as soon as they can if a serious medical issue occurs.