Flying can be exciting, but if you’ve ever sat in economy class, you know space is at a premium.
The cramped seating and limited legroom can make even a short journey feel like a marathon.
But one flight attendant has revealed a clever trick that could give you just a little more breathing room—especially if you’re in an aisle seat.
The Hidden Button Most Passengers Don’t Know About
Charlie Silver, a UK-based TUI cabin crew member, shared the tip in a TikTok video on her page @silvercharlie back in 2023.
Demonstrating from an aisle seat, she showed that while most armrests lift easily, the one by the aisle often doesn’t—unless you know where to look.
By sliding her hand toward the back underside of the armrest, right near the hinge, Charlie pressed a hidden button.
Instantly, the armrest lifted and could be pushed back, creating more space.
Designed for Accessibility but Handy for Everyone
Charlie explained that the button’s main purpose is to help passengers who need assistance getting on or off the plane.
But it’s also a game-changer for anyone who wants a bit more comfort, especially on long-haul flights.
Lifting the armrest can make it easier to get in and out of your seat, stretch your legs, or head to the lavatory without squeezing past your row-mates.
That said, she advised passengers to keep the armrest down during takeoff and landing.
And there’s another word of caution—watch out for the trolley cart. With the armrest up, it’s easier for your arm or leg to get clipped as crew move through the aisle.
Not Just on One Type of Plane
In a follow-up comment, Charlie added that this button can be found on “most aircraft types,” making it worth checking the next time you fly.
Hundreds of viewers were surprised by the revelation, with many thanking her for sharing the tip.
One person commented, “Nah! Needed to see this at the beginning of the year! Why’s it so hidden?”
Another wrote, “THANKS FOR MAKING THIS!!!!!” A third joked, “I wish I knew about this 3 months ago when I had 6 flights to South Africa.”
Of course, not everyone was enthusiastic. One viewer warned that flight attendants sometimes insist the armrest stays down, while another humorously advised, “Watch out for chewing gum—my brother accidentally touched one.”
When Flights Turn Chaotic
Charlie’s tip wasn’t the only insider story making headlines.
Another flight attendant, Kristina Galvydyte, 32, shared a far less pleasant experience—calling it the most traumatic flight of her career.
The trouble began on a flight from Edinburgh to Alicante, Spain, when three separate stag-do groups ended up on the same plane—vastly outnumbering the four cabin crew members.
“It was just absolute chaos,” Kristina told The Telegraph. “They were screaming.
Imagine a night out in any British town at midnight on a Friday—it was like that.”
Booze, Arguments, and a Mid-Air Clash
Things escalated after one group began drinking their duty-free alcohol, which is strictly prohibited during flights.
Another group took offence, leading to a heated exchange mid-air.
What might have been a rowdy night out in a pub instead unfolded at 30,000 feet—proving that, while flying can have its small comforts, it can also deliver some very big headaches for cabin crew.