How Often Are Planes Cleaned Between Flights?

Introduction

When discussing the cleanliness of airplanes, it's common to hear anecdotal stories from past military service members or personal experiences. But how often do commercial airlines take the time to thoroughly clean their aircraft between flights? In this article, we'll dive into the cleaning routines and practices of commercial airlines, providing insights into the frequency and thoroughness of these cleaning efforts.

Quick Cleans

When planes land at intermediate stops throughout the day, the immediate focus is often on quick and light cleaning tasks. This includes:

Picking up loose trash from seats Vacuuming seat backs Sweeping the floor Changing and sanitizing seatbacks

While these tasks are essential, they may not be as thorough as a deep clean conducted after the final flight of the day.

Deep Cleaning After Each Flight

Upon landing, planes undergo a more comprehensive cleaning. This typically includes:

Wiping down bathroom surfaces Sanitizing trays and seats Disinfecting seatbelts and overhead compartments Sanitizing blankets and pillows

However, with the increase in passenger demand, airlines may need to balance thorough cleaning with the time required to accommodate multiple flights per day, meaning a truly deep clean might not be the norm.

Frequency of Cleaning Tasks

Much like personal vehicles, airplanes experience various levels of dirt and grime accumulation based on passenger behavior and usage. Key areas to be aware of include:

Seatback Pockets: Often used for storing dirty items, these spaces rarely get sanitized, making them a significant breeding ground for germs. Blankets and Pillows: These items can go days between washings, creating potential health concerns. Tray Tables: Typically cleaned overnight, they may not always be sanitized, making them a primary target for bacteria and viruses.

Frequent cleaning is especially challenging for airlines that have outsourced their cleaning crews, often operating on minimum wages. Without a sense of pride in their work, thorough cleaning may not be a priority. It's recommended to carry hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes for added reassurance.

Post-Landing Cleanings

While passengers might not always notice the thoroughness of cleaning, it's important to understand that every plane is subject to a cleaning upon each landing. The quality and number of cleaning staff can vary widely based on the airport and country.

Between flights, flight crews may conduct a cursory walkthrough to pick up loose trash and sometimes vacuum seat backs. Despite these efforts, there have been occasional reports of less-than-thorough cleaning, leading to issues such as:

Airsickness from unequally cleaned areas. Soil left by service animals.

While these issues are rare, they highlight the importance of consistent, high-quality cleaning processes.

Conclusion

The frequency and thoroughness of airplane cleaning can vary widely depending on the airline and the specific situation. Understanding the cleaning routines can help travelers make informed decisions about their next flight. No matter the level of cleanliness, carrying personal hygiene items is always a good practice to maintain your own health and well-being while traveling.