Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/131994
rexfaq Frequently asked questions As you sit back in the comfort of a Rex SAAB 340 en route to your destination, enjoy this compilation of light reading that the Rex crew hopes you will find interesting and informative. Q. Why do the flight attendants insist that all window blinds be up for take-off? A. The most critical phases of a flight are the take-off and the landing. In the most unlikely event of a situation that requires an emergency evacuation, it is important that crew and passengers are able to have a clear view of the outside conditions in case of any obstructions. For example, before exits are opened, staff need to check for fire or other dangers that may present potential hazards during the evacuation. Q. Why do you have to stow your hand luggage in the overhead lockers, under the seats or in the seat pockets for take-off and landing? A. Flight crews are required by Civil Aviation Regulations to secure the cabin as well as possible for take-off and landing. As mentioned, these are the most critical phases of the flight, and securing as much hand luggage as possible ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, the exits and aisles stay as clear as possible in case of a necessary evacuation. It is also important to keep hand luggage secure whenever possible to ensure that heavier items do not become airborne within the cabin. This is especially important when the aircraft is experiencing turbulence. Q. Why do you feel so tired from flying? A. As the aircraft altitude increases, air pressure decreases. As the pressure of the air decreases, the body absorbs less oxygen than it would at sea level – therefore, it must work harder to supply oxygen to the body's cells. As the body is working harder, it becomes more tired. Q. Why do your ears feel blocked during take-off and 'pop' during descent? A. As the cabin altitude increases, gases in the air expand. This causes the gases in open cavities within our bodies X (such as those in our ears) to expand – hence, they may feel blocked. Q. Why do you sometimes feel pain in your ears or sinuses during ascent or descent? A. The sinuses and middle ear are air-containing cavities that connect with the nose via narrow channels. As the aircraft ascends and the pressure in the cabin drops, air passes out of these cavities (without any effort from the passenger) to balance the cabin pressure. It is a different matter during descent, as the cabin pressure increases. The channels close down and must be actively opened by holding the nose and blowing to inflate the cavities. Facial and ear pain can occur during descent if re-inflation does not occur, and this is much more likely if the passenger has nasal congestion. If you must fly with a cold or hayfever, use a decongestant nasal spray before descent and buy some 'ear planes' to plug your ears. (Information contributed by Dr Daniel Hains, ENT Surgeon.) Q. Why is it so important that mobile phones not in 'flight' mode not be used on an aircraft? A. They have antennae that give and receive signals, which can interfere with the aircraft's operating equipment. Q. When can electronic equipment such as laptops, iPods and mobile phones be used? A. With more new technology being used by passengers every day, it is difficult for flight crew to differentiate various items of electronic equipment. Most electronic items are permitted for use while in cruise – however, only after the FASTEN SEATBELT sign has been switched off. Mobile phone use is also permitted provided the phone's 'flight' mode has been activated prior to boarding the aircraft.