UAE travel: Secret compartments, hidden features on planes you didn’t know existed

Dubai: Be it the super-jumbo Airbus A380 or the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, aircraft are engineering marvels and hold more secrets than one can imagine.

From interesting features designed for passenger comfort to hidden compartments ensuring the crew's well-being, the jets of various airlines that whisk you away from the UAE to global destinations are full of intriguing surprises.

However, many of these areas are strictly accessible to crew only. Still, it is good to know about their existence.

Here are some of the most interesting "secret" features:

Cabin crew rest areas

The secret cabin crew rest areas are among the worst-kept secrets in the world of aviation. More prevalent on long-haul flights, pilots and flight attendants have private sleeping compartments tucked away behind locked doors for their breaks.

Often located above or below the main cabin, these cosy bunkers feature actual beds (not just converting seats), complete with sound-dampening curtains for privacy.

Creature comforts like reading lights, AC/USB power outlets, and small mirrors ensure the crew get a comfortable break between shifts. Safety equipment like oxygen masks and intercoms are also standard. These rest areas are usually found in wide-bodied aircraft, and the layout of the rest area varies from airline to airline.

Liftable armrests

This, too, is a well-known “secret”. While not all armrests can be lifted, the ones on the aisle seats have this capability. Many carriers have aisle armrests that can be lifted to provide more space and make getting in and out of the seat easier.

Hidden handrails

Passengers might also be surprised to learn about hidden features designed for their benefit. Next time you’re walking down the aisle, notice if the back of the seats has a subtle hidden handrail. This thoughtful addition allows fellow travellers to steady themselves without accidentally grabbing your headrest.

Black triangles on cabin walls

Keep an eye out for small black triangles on the cabin walls. These aren’t random markings; they indicate where the view of the aircraft’s wings is best from a window seat. This is particularly useful for the cabin crew to assess the state of the wings during flight.

Secret ashtrays

While smoking is strictly prohibited on most airlines, you’ll likely still find ashtrays in the lavatories. This might seem contradictory, but it’s a safety precaution. If someone does decide to ignore the rules, having a designated place to extinguish the cigarette safely is far better than potentially discarding it in a bin where it could cause a fire.

Hidden storage option

Did you know that carriers like Emirates have a cloakroom for hanging coats, jackets, and other clothing items? Next time you fly, you don’t need to stuff your winter coats in the overhead luggage compartments. Instead, ask the cabin crew if there is space to hang it up, especially if you are wearing a suit.

More storage nooks

For those in an exit row on some aircraft, especially window seats, you might discover hidden storage nooks between your seat and the wall – perfect for stowing small personal items. Additionally, armrests in exit rows sometimes have a secret: they can be fully lifted, unlike standard economy seats, offering more space. Remember, if you’re in an exit row, you must be prepared to assist in an emergency.

Yellow hooks on wings

If you ever find yourself in an emergency water landing (hopefully not!), look for small yellow hooks on the aircraft's wings near the emergency exits. These are attachment points for ropes that can help passengers hold on to the wings or assist in deploying slides.

Bleed holes

Even the seemingly simple aeroplane window has a secret. Look closely at the middle pane and spot a tiny hole. This “bleed hole” is vital in regulating cabin pressure and preventing the windows from fogging up, ensuring you get that perfect view of the vistas below.