Guide to Using Airplane Lavatories

On long flights, using the lavatory is a necessity and a basic need for everyone. Airplane lavatories have unique features compared to those on the ground. To understand more about how to use the lavatory on an airplane, join Vietjet in exploring how to use the lavatory on an airplane through the following article.

Guide to Using Airplane Lavatories.

The need to use the lavatory on an airplane is essential, especially on long international flights.

1. Are There Lavatories on Airplanes?

For first-time air travelers, a common question is: Are there lavatories on airplanes? The answer is yes.

Each flight typically carries a large number of passengers and crew members. Additionally, flight durations can range from 2 hours (for domestic flights) to 2 days (for international flights to other continents). Thus, the need to use the lavatory on an airplane is very high. Equipping airplanes with lavatories is essential.

Guide to Using Airplane Lavatories.

Many first-time users find airplane lavatories uncomfortable due to the small space.

2. Where Is the Lavatory on an Airplane?

Airplanes are designed with multiple cabins, each typically corresponding to the class of ticket provided by the airline. Therefore, finding the lavatory on an airplane can be challenging for first-time travelers.

Depending on the type of airplane, the number and location of lavatories will vary. Typically, airplane lavatories are located near the boarding gate. If you don't see one, you can follow the WC signs to find the lavatory quickly. In emergency situations, you can also ask a flight attendant for assistance.

3. How to Use the Lavatory on an Airplane

Due to the specific nature of the aviation industry, using the lavatory on an airplane has some unique points to ensure safety and convenience for passengers.

3.1 Opening/Closing the Airplane Lavatory Door

The cabin space on an airplane is usually small, so the lavatory area is also limited. Manufacturers optimize the details to meet passengers' lavatory needs.

The lavatory door is typically a sliding door or a door that pushes inward. When you need to use it, pay attention to the "available" sign on the lavatory door. If the sign is red, it means someone is inside, and you need to wait your turn. If the sign is green, you can push or slide the door to enter.

To close the lavatory door, look for a small lever on the door. It is usually at eye level or slightly higher. Simply pull it to close the door. To open it, pull the lever in the opposite direction.

3.2 Flushing the Airplane Toilet

Unlike regular toilets, the flushing mechanism in airplane lavatories operates differently. Instead of using water flow, airplane toilets use a strong suction force to flush waste. The airplane toilet is coated with Teflon, a material with low friction that sweeps everything away when you press the flush button, leaving no trace.

To flush the airplane toilet, follow these steps. After use, notice the flush button beside the toilet. Stand up, close the toilet lid, and press the flush button. The first time you use it, you might be startled by the loud noise and strong suction, but it is safe if you follow the instructions and close the lid.

When flushing, the strong suction can pull in any objects accidentally dropped inside. Never press the flush button while seated as it can cause serious issues.

3.3 Using the Sink in the Airplane Lavatory

Guide to Using Airplane Lavatories.

Due to limited space, essential equipment in the airplane lavatory is optimized for passenger convenience.

The sink in the airplane lavatory is similar to a regular sink but is usually integrated with a cabinet and other lavatory functions. Depending on the age of the airplane, the water dispensing mechanism may vary. Newer airplanes use automatic, infrared sensors, while older models have a single-press water dispensing feature. This feature ensures water conservation on the airplane by preventing passengers from forgetting to turn off the tap.

4. When Is the Best Time to Use the Airplane Lavatory?

Due to limited space and the high number of passengers and crew, waiting to use the lavatory is common. Therefore, knowing the best times to use the lavatory is essential for every passenger.

You can only move around the cabin to reach the lavatory except during takeoff and landing when you must fasten your seatbelt.

When the airplane is in stable flight, the cabin crew and seatbelt signs will indicate that you can unfasten your seatbelt. This is the best time to use the lavatory as most passengers will be resting in their seats.

Another ideal time is when flight attendants are serving meals or snacks. You can use the lavatory with minimal waiting time.

5. Other Tips for Using the Airplane Lavatory

Guide to Using Airplane Lavatories.

The lavatory has instructions with symbols for passengers to easily follow.

The airplane lavatory is a small space with unique operating mechanisms compared to ground lavatories. Here are some important tips to ensure safety and hygiene for you and other passengers:

No smoking as it can cause fires and poor ventilation in the lavatory.
Do not dispose of paper or trash in the toilet to avoid clogging.
Do not squat on the toilet seat.
Dispose of trash in the designated bins.

Due to the small space and frequent use, airplane lavatories are often a breeding ground for bacteria. You can bring wet wipes or tissues to clean the toilet seat before use. If you are startled by the flushing noise, you can wear headphones to reduce the sound.

Using the airplane lavatory is a basic need for passengers. Through this article, Vietjet hopes to provide essential guidance to help you meet your needs conveniently on flights. Don’t forget to visit Vietjet to see daily flight deals.

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