The idea of joining the so-called “mile high club” has long been romanticized, but according to those who work in the air, the reality is far from glamorous.
At cruising altitude, airplane bathrooms are tight, uncomfortable, and far from the clean, cinematic spaces people might imagine. In truth, they’re often cramped areas with strong chemical smells and barely enough room for one person.
Former flight attendant and author Mandy Smith shared insight into what actually happens behind the scenes. In her memoir, she explained that these situations occur less frequently than many would expect.
According to Smith, attempts to sneak off together happen on roughly one in every 20 to 30 flights. While it’s not unheard of, it’s also not nearly as common as popular culture might suggest.
When it does happen, cabin crew usually handle it discreetly. If two passengers are noticed entering a restroom together, it often leads to a quiet knock on the door and a polite but firm request to stop.
The situation can become especially awkward depending on the timing. Incidents during daytime flights or when families are nearby tend to draw quicker intervention from staff.
However, on overnight journeys, when most passengers are asleep, Smith admitted that crew may occasionally turn a blind eye — as long as things remain low-key and don’t disturb others.
She also recalled one particularly memorable case involving a young passenger who repeatedly attempted to join the club, despite being warned. The situation eventually escalated to the point where crew had to inform her parents, who were traveling with her.
It’s safe to say, that’s probably not the kind of in-flight experience most people are hoping for when they board a plane.
