While you might think that wearing flip flops or Crocs on a plane is a lot more comfortable than sneakers or heels, think again.
A flight attendant revealed why shoes like this should be safely stowed away — and no, it’s not because of smelly feet.
Andrea Fischbach, who works as a stewardess for American Airlines, has explained why such shoes, as well as backless sandals and high heels, should definitely be avoided.
Speaking to whattowear.co.uk, the flight attendant said the shoes pose hazards on a flight, especially when passengers need to evacuate the plane quickly.
And while stewardesses wear heels themselves, Ms. Fischbach has shown that they are impractical and most often remove them.
American Airlines stewardess Andrea Fischbach has explained why sliders, Crocs, backless sandals and heels should be avoided at all times on flights (file image)
If you go to the bathroom mid-flight, Ms Fischbach advises it’s best to swap out your slippers, sandals or flip-flops for something more closed (file image)
While many rightly point out that flight attendants wear heels during flights, Ms Fischbach explained that these aren’t really practical
Fischbach said: “Heels can potentially cause further damage to emergency exits or injure others if they somehow fly away.
“I would really advise against high heels or flip flops or any mules, mainly for safety reasons.
“If there is an evacuation and chutes are required, your high heels must be removed as they can puncture the chute.
“Who knows where and under what conditions you will land. Also, they’re not very practical when walking from gate to gate.”
While many rightly point out that flight attendants wear high heels during flights – such as when serving passengers or making calls – Ms Fischbach explained that they are not really practical.
What you should never wear on a plane
American Airlines flight attendant Andrea Fischbach has listed some items you should never wear at 35,000 feet — for the sake of safety and practicality.
She claims they switch heels after takeoff.
She added: “As if another reason was needed, they let the metal detectors go off thanks to nails in the heels (if you’re lucky enough to get a pre-check).
“Flip flops and backless shoes can also fly off your feet, and your feet are more likely to freeze, especially during a long flight.”
She also added that open-toed shoes could lead to an unsanitary visit to the airplane lavatory.
When going to the toilet in the middle of a flight, Ms. Fischbach advises swapping slippers, sandals or flip-flops for something closed.
She warned: “Be careful with sandals if you plan to go to the bathroom.
“There’s no water on the floor (yes, use your imagination), and sandals invite whatever that liquid is to splash on your feet.”
The stewardess also listed other items that you should not wear when flying for reasons of comfort, practicality and safety.
This includes wearing only a sports bra and leggings, as airplanes can get cold and are a fire hazard, and anything constricting.
Wearing restrictive clothing can cause discomfort, swelling in the stomach, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, usually in the legs.
Instead, you should wear layers to ensure you have a comfortable flight and advise you to pack a light jacket or cashmere hoodie.
She also recommends packing your own pair of thick socks for extra warmth.