I’m an air steward and here’s why you should NEVER wear flip flops or Crocs on a plane
While you may think that wearing flip flops or Crocs on an airplane is much more comfortable than sneakers or heels, think again.
A flight attendant has revealed why you should safely store this kind of footwear – and no, it’s not because of smelly feet.
Andrea Fischbach, who works as a flight attendant for American Airlines, has explained why shoes like these, backless sandals and high heels should be avoided at all costs.
Speak against whattowear.co.ukthe flight attendant said this footwear poses a hazard during a flight, especially if passengers need to exit the plane quickly.
And while flight attendants wear high heels themselves, Ms. Fischbach has revealed that they are impractical and usually take them off.
American Airlines flight attendant Andrea Fischbach has explained why flip flops, crocs, backless sandals and high heels should be avoided on flights at all times (File image)
If you’re going to the bathroom mid-flight, Ms. Fischbach advised that it’s best to swap your slippers, sandals or flip flops for something closed (File Image)
While many people rightly point out that flight attendants wear high heels during the flight, Ms. Fischbach explained that they are not really practical
Fischbach said: ‘Heels could potentially cause further damage to emergency exits or injure others if they somehow fly off.
“I would really advise against wearing high heels or flip flops or flip flops, mostly for safety reasons.
“If there’s an evacuation and slides are needed, you have to take off your high heels because they can pierce the slide.”
‘Who knows where and under what conditions you will land. Besides, they are not very practical for running from gate to gate.’
While many people rightly point out that flight attendants wear high heels in-flight — when they’re serving passengers or handling phone calls, for example — Ms. Fischbach explained that they’re not really practical.
She claims that after takeoff they change their heels.
She added, “As if any other reason was needed, they set off the metal detectors (if you’re lucky enough to have a pre-check) thanks to nails in the heels.
“Flip-flops and backless shoes can also fly off your feet and your feet are more likely to freeze, especially on a long flight.”
She also added that open shoes can make for an unhygienic visit to the airplane toilets.
If you’re going to the bathroom mid-flight, Ms. Fischbach advised that it’s best to swap your slippers, sandals or flip flops for something more closed.
She warned, “Be wary of wearing sandals if you plan to go to the bathroom.
“That’s not water on the floor (yes, use your imagination), and sandals invite any kind of liquid to splash on your feet.”
The flight attendant also listed other items you should not wear while flying for the sake of comfort, practicality and safety.
This includes wearing only a sports bra and leggings, as airplanes can get cold and are a fire hazard, as well as anything restrictive.
Wearing restrictive clothing can cause discomfort, swelling in the stomach, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, usually in the legs.
Instead, you should layer up to ensure you have a comfortable flight, advising you to bring a lightweight jacket or cashmere hoodie.
She also advises packing your own pair of thick socks for extra warmth.