Airplane Hacks
1) You don’t need ID
I’ve blogged about this before, but it bears repeating: you do not need ID to fly on an airplane!
I had to do it again recently and the process varies a little bit from airport to airport, but it doesn’t take more than 5 - 10 minutes extra. If you forget your ID on the way to the airport, you do have the option to just press forward without ID.
2) You don’t need to pay attention to the fasten seatbelt sign
One time I decided I really had to pee even though the fasten seatbelt sign was on. I’d tried this on prior flights and the stewardess had told me “Sir, the fasten seatbelt sign is on, you should go back to your seat,” but I thought I’d try again for the heck of it. I went to the bathroom, got the standard line, and then I said something like “I really would be happy if I could use the bathroom.” Then the flight attendant told me that so long as I recognized that I was putting my safety at risk, I could use the bathroom. Hell yes!
Here is a blog post that discusses this weird loophole thing in detail.
I use this special knowledge as I would diplomatic license plates. I try not to abuse the privilege, despite the fact that there is never a line when the fasten seatbelt sign is on. But last night I went all out. As the plane was in steep early ascent I bounded down the aisle to the bathroom. The bathroom was actually locked but by saying the magic phrase “I accept the risk,” the flight attendant unlocked the bathroom.
3) You don’t need to turn off your cell phone
A quick Google search will confirm this. However, I always try to be very discreet about the fact that I’m using my cell phone. Other passengers will judge you and I certainly do not want to disrespect the flight attendant. So if I’m off my game and they catch me I will turn it off.
These hacks are more about the fun of discovering a secret, not about the ego trip of being a prima donna. Honestly, the best airplane hack is to be super nice to everyone that is working — desk agents, flight attendants, TSA staff. Not just because traveling can be a grind and being friendly makes it more pleasant, but because being nice at the airport can get you hooked up.
