Why do flight attendants often bring bananas on board?
Flight attendants often work at high altitudes, where low pressure and oxygen deprivation can take a toll on their health. They also cross multiple time zones, disrupting their body clocks and leading to issues like headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and fatigue. On top of that, their busy flight schedules leave them with limited rest.
Given these challenging work conditions, proper nutrition becomes crucial, and bananas offer an effective solution. Bananas are a good choice for flight attendants as irregular flight schedules can lead to erratic eating habits, which may cause stomach and intestinal problems. Bananas stimulate the production and development of gastric mucosal cells, a protective layer that shields the stomach from the attack of gastric acid.
When this mucous membrane is damaged, the stomach may become irritated, causing pain, inflammation, ulcers, and discomfort. Consuming bananas helps protect the stomach and reduces the risk of uncomfortable spasms.
Additionally, bananas contain pectin, a type of cellulose that moisturizes the intestines, aids smooth digestion, and relieves constipation and digestive discomfort. As the plane ascends, the decreasing pressure can affect blood pressure. Bananas, being rich in potassium, help the body eliminate excess sodium, regulate blood pressure, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Bananas also have the benefit of enhancing vision, which is vital for flight attendants. They are an excellent source of energy, providing a sense of fullness, strengthening bones and teeth, and reducing the risk of cancer and other illnesses. However, experts advise consuming only one to two bananas per day. Overeating bananas can lead to headaches, tooth decay, nausea, slow heart rate, and nerve damage. While bananas are nutritious, moderation is essential to avoid unwanted side effects.
Mandatory Rules for Flight Attendants
Timepiece Regulations
All crew members, including flight attendants and pilots, are required to wear watches that adhere to specific size and design standards. Watches not only help the crew manage time accurately but also serve as crucial tools in emergency situations, such as reporting accidents, medical issues, and flight incidents.
No Tardiness Allowed
Flight times are strictly managed, and any delay caused by crew members can result in significant losses for the airline. The plane will not wait for a late crew member. If someone misses the pre-flight briefing, the flight manager will immediately replace them with a standby crew member. Being late more than three times could lead to dismissal.
Restrictions on Jewelry
Airlines require flight attendants to minimize their jewelry to ensure safety and avoid interference with in-flight equipment. They are permitted to wear only one ring and a small pair of earrings (such as pearl or diamond studs). Bracelets, necklaces, and other types of jewelry are prohibited, and the color of accessories must not clash with the uniform.
No Refusal of Assigned Flights
Crew members are not allowed to refuse assigned flights or calls when on standby, regardless of the duration or destination. Some airlines allow flight swaps between crew members or specific destination requests, but these are not always approved.
No Black Nail Polish
Flight attendants’ nails must always be clean, neatly trimmed, and no longer than 0.32 cm beyond the fingertip. Black nail polish and excessively long artificial nails are prohibited to prevent interference with their work.
Hair Must Be Tied Back
Pulling hair back into a bun or an updo ensures a neat and professional appearance for flight attendants and prevents hair from getting in the way during work. This not only creates a good impression on passengers but also maintains high work efficiency.
No Strong-Scented Perfumes
Flight attendants must be cautious when choosing perfumes. In the confined space of an aircraft, strong fragrances can be unpleasant for both passengers and colleagues. To maintain a comfortable environment, flight attendants should opt for light and refreshing scents or maintain a neutral body odor.
Weight Maintenance
Crew members are expected to maintain their body weight within a specified range. Once they receive their uniforms, significant weight gain will result in the denial of new uniforms. Some airlines, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, enforce strict weight regulations and may terminate the contracts of crew members who gain weight.
Confidentiality
Crew members typically sign confidentiality agreements, committing to not disclose information about the airline, incidents onboard, or take photographs while in uniform without permission. While some rules have been relaxed, seeking consent from the airline remains necessary.
These regulations ensure the safety and efficiency of airline operations while maintaining the well-being and optimal performance of the flight crew.