Ever wondered why your plane feels like a sauna before takeoff? You’re not alone. Thanks to climate change, Earth is heating up, and so are our flights. Let’s dive into why this happens and what’s being done about it.
The Heat Struggle Is Real
Flight attendants and passengers are feeling the burn, literally. With temperatures rising, sitting in a metal tube on a hot runway is no fun. The U.S. Department of Transportation is stepping in, pushing for limits on how hot it can get inside planes. Finally!
Voices from the Sky
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants, says this is a massive issue. She shared stories of flight attendants and passengers suffering in the heat. One attendant even passed out from the heat. Lauren Gay, a travel writer, experienced this firsthand. Her JetBlue flight was delayed because it was a scorching 93 degrees inside the cabin. And get this, it was 7:30 a.m.! Surprising, right?
The Cool Down Dilemma
Why can’t planes just stay cool? Well, when the engines aren’t running, keeping things chilly is tough. They use an auxiliary power unit or external cooling units, but these don’t always work well. Maintenance issues and cost-cutting are often to blame. Ross Sagun, an aviation consultant, says airlines often skimp on running the auxiliary power units to save on fuel and maintenance costs. This can lead to uncomfortable, overheated cabins. Not fun!
What’s Being Done?
There’s hope, though. The FAA has rules to protect passengers. If a delay hits three hours, airlines must let you de-plane. Plus, there’s a rule for keeping the cabin comfy, though “comfortable” isn’t clearly defined.
Airlines Taking Action
Airlines are starting to take action. They know it’s bad business to roast their customers and crews. While federal guidelines are still in the works, it’s good to see some progress. Next time you’re sweating on the tarmac, know that change is coming. And hey, maybe pack a fan in your carry-on, just in case!
