The Classroom of the Skies: A Pilot's Tale of Navigating Restroom Etiquette

Every pilot, regardless of the airline, flies through a shared experience that mirrors the daily grind of their passengers. One of the less glamorous yet highly personal moments often encountered during a long-haul flight is the need to use the restroom. This article delves into the practices and etiquette of a commercial airline pilot when facing a restroom situation that requires a bit of patience and strategic thinking.

Patiently Waiting

It's a common scenario: you're a pilot on a long flight, and the need to use the restroom becomes pressing. However, the restroom is occupied and the occupant is taking their sweet time, much to your annoyance. The first step in this scenario is to maintain a level of patience, much like everyone else would do. Just go about your day as if nothing were out of the ordinary. After all, everyone else on the plane is dealing with their own needs and situations, and they will eventually take care of theirs.

Searching for an Open Lavatory

Searching for an open lavatory can be a useful strategy if time is of the essence and waiting isn't an option. Performing a quick scan of the plane can help you locate an unoccupied restroom. Sometimes, pilots will take one for their colleagues by holding it in so that their fellow crew members can have access to the facilities. This act of kindness might be a minor inconvenience for you, but it can significantly alleviate the stress of your team members.

Selected Personal Rituals

For many commercial airline pilots, the need to freshen up during a long flight is a personal matter. Post-flight, the lingering odors of the plane or the complementing scents of perfumes can leave a lasting impression on the crew. A break from these odors can greatly improve a pilot's mood and focus. Cold water on the face often helps in restoring a sense of normalcy. Additionally, tucking the shirt back in can be satisfying, serving as a small moment of pride in the midst of a long journey.

Experiencing a Rare Occasion

During one memorable flight, a true test of a pilot's patience came to the fore. On an eastbound flight from Atlanta to Amsterdam, a pilot decided to take their time in the restroom. To their surprise, upon leaving the lavatory, they were face to face with former President Jimmy Carter patiently waiting in the galley. The pilot quickly realized the need to express their gratitude, saying, "I'm sorry I took so long." Carter poetically responded, "It felt good to stand up."

Learning from the Presidents

From this incident, it becomes clear that even former presidents are patient and understanding of the needs of those around them, particularly in shared spaces like commercial aircraft. If a man of presidential stature can wait his turn, surely any pilot can. This lesson is a valuable reminder for pilots to maintain a patient and considerate demeanor, even when circumstances might call for immediate action.

Techniques for Navigating the Skies

Navigating restroom situations on a commercial flight might seem small, but it holds a significant place in the lives of pilots. By employing techniques such as patience, a quick search for an open lavatory, and personal hygiene practices, pilots can navigate these moments with grace and professionalism. After all, the classroom of the skies teaches us lessons that extend beyond the cockpit, instilling in us the value of patience, kindness, and consideration for our colleagues and passengers.