Taking long flights can be a tiring experience no matter how comfortable the plane is. If it is uncomfortable for a passenger imagine what it would be for a flight attendant or a pilot. They have to stay vigilant all through the journey and mind the needs of passengers. Long-haul flights take more than eight hours to reach destination. Long-haul non-stop flights fly without breaks, which means a very long working day.
To make things better for the crew most of the long-haul plane manufacturers build secret rooms and bedrooms where the crew can rest. They are usually built behind the cockpit and can only be accessed by the crew.
Image Source: Boeing
Different planes have different type of layout and interiors. Some are of dorm-room style with all the beds placed side by side and a little partition separating them.
Some interiors are made to look lively with pops of bright colored pillows so that the lack of space is less noticeable, like this Boeing 787 Dreamliner…
Image Source: Boeing
Or this Boeing 777, which also has storage space for the attendants.
Image Source: Boeing
While this Canada’s Boeing plane has a very function-oriented bland look.
This Malaysian plane has a three-tired bunk bed style, whereas the Singaporean one has a slightly luxurious look with silk pillows and spacious interior.
The whole experience of being in such cramped spaces can be claustrophobic. But since they are temporary sanctuaries to get some shut-eye they serve their purpose well.
The entrances are hidden away from the view of passengers. They sometimes are small doors with a compact stairway up to the rooms, while some are ceiling trap doors that look just like the luggage bins above passengers.