Once the first meal is served, the lights are dimmed and you drift off into sleep on a long haul flight, some of the cabin crew also retreat to rest or get some shut eye. But where?

It depends on the manufacturer and plane model, but there are hidden sleeping compartments onboard that are usually located above the back section of economy class or up front, on top of first class. Most rest areas on long haul flights can sleep up to eight crew members at a time. 

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According to Cathay Pacific on the Boeing 777-300ER, the secret rest area for cabin crew can be found above the back section of economy. The entrance looks like a toilet door, but when opened reveals a narrow set of stairs that leads to the rest area. On the 777-300ER there are eight bunks, two rows of four with a small aisle between them. The bunks are separated by a partition wall and curtains for privacy. 

Aboard Etihad’s newest Airbus A350-1000, the crew rest area is accessed through the galley at the rear of the aircraft and is also above aisle level. Most secret rest areas can only be accessed via a code to ensure passengers do not gain entry. Within Etihad’s rest area there are compartments to hang clothes, stow away personal luggage and also bunk beds to sleep in.  Bunks generally have reading lights, hooks, and mirrors, as well as some personal storage space. Usually, they come with blankets and pillows, occasionally even pyjamas, and, of course, a seat belt for safety. 

On the Boeing 777, pilots have their own overhead sleeping compartments, which feature two roomy sleeping berths, as well as two business-class seats, and enough room for a closet, sink, or lavatory, depending on the airline.

So there you have it folks, secret compartments in not so secret places. Planes will never cease to amaze me. 

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