“The secret pilot and cabin crew beds inside the airplane"

The longest flight in the world is from Singapore (SIN) to New York (JFK). This flight spans 9,537 miles in approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes. Why am I telling you this? Because the crew cannot work non-stop for a 20 hours duty. These long flights called Ultra Long-Haul (more than 12 hours), require the flight deck and cabin crew to split their flight duties so they can get a proper rest.

And where do they take a break during the fight? In the CRC.

Access from the passenger cabin (B777)

Airplanes that do Long-haul and Ultra Long-Haul flights are equipped with a secret compartment called the CRC: Crew Rest Compartment.

These compartments are thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and functionality within limited space:

• Bunk beds with privacy curtains are standard. Depending on the aircraft, there may be 2-12 bunks arranged in rows or stacked vertically.

• Adjustable lighting for a restful environment.

• Ventilation systems for fresh air circulation.

• Soundproofing to minimize noise from engines or passengers.

• Oxygen masks in case of depressurization.

• Seatbelts on bunks for turbulence.

• Emergency exits accessible from within the compartment.

• Some CRCs include entertainment systems, personal storage spaces, and even temperature controls for added comfort.

  
  

Despite their utility, CRCs can be cramped and claustrophobic. Kind of like the boat bed bunks for crew also.

Why Are CRCs Important?

Fatigue is one of the most significant risks in aviation. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived pilots experience impaired cognitive function and slower reaction times, which can compromise safety. To mitigate this, aviation regulations mandate crew rest facilities on long-haul flights.

Aircraft-Specific CRC Designs

Different aircraft models have unique CRC configurations:

AIRCRAFT MODEL	PIILOT REST LOCATION	CABIN CREW REST LOCATION	NOTABLE FEATURES
Boeing 777	Behind cockpit	Above passenger cabin	Up to 10 bunks; soundproofed; escape hatch under a bunk.
Airbus A380	Near cockpit	Below economy deck	Up to 12 bunks; accessed via stairwell
Boeing 787 Dreamliner	Behind cockpit	Above economy cabin	Compact “loft-style” bunks; ergonomic
Airbus A350	Behind cockpit	Above rear economy section	Separate pilot and cabin crew spaces with secure access.

And when can you use the CRC?

Strictly never during critical phases of the flight such as taxiing, take off and landing. Only authorized crew members can enter through secure doors with locks or codes.

Also, emergency evacuation routes must be clearly marked and functional.

And where does the emergency exit send the crewmebers to?

In the case of the Boeing 787 right above the seat 65G (notice there is no handle to open it as it is not a real luggage compartment). This compartment can only be opened from the inside in case of fire, smoke or emergency.

While passengers may never see these secret spaces, they contribute significantly to safe and efficient air travel.

The old Boeing 747 CRC quite basic, no TV screens or curtains for privacy

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