On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video revealed the meaning of the ‘ding’ noises on airplanes.
If you’ve ever wondered about the mysterious ‘ding’ noises you hear during a flight, you’re not alone.
These beeping sounds are not just random; they have specific meanings. The ‘secret code’ that cabin crew use to communicate with the cockpit has finally been explained.
What does the first ding after takeoff mean?
Flying can be stressful, and unfamiliar sounds can heighten anxiety.
To clarify the purpose of these dings, TikToker @itsbeautifulmitch shared an insightful explanation. He revealed that each ‘ding’ sound has a specific meaning and is part of a communication system between the cabin crew and the cockpit.
“You know the dings you hear after takeoff in an airplane? It turns out these are like a secret language between the cabin crew and the cockpit,” he explained. “And each ding has a different meaning, too.”
For instance, the single ‘ding’ you hear shortly after takeoff usually indicates that the plane’s takeoff has been approved.
Sometimes, this sound is followed by a voice command from the cockpit, confirming this action.
@itsbeautifulmitch What the dings mean on airplanes #viralvideo
What does the double ding at 10,000 feet mean?
Approximately five minutes after takeoff, you’ll hear two dings. This signals that the plane has reached 10,000 feet.
At this altitude, passengers can use WiFi and laptops, and flight attendants can move about the cabin if it’s safe.
What does the single ding before drink service mean?
As the plane begins its descent, you’ll likely hear a single ding again. This sound typically signals that drink service is about to begin, or it can be used for further communication between the cockpit and cabin crew.
The ‘ding’ system can vary between airlines.
Some flight attendants explained that the signals might differ based on the airline’s procedures.
For example, one EasyJet cabin crew member confirmed that the first ding after takeoff signals the gear is up and in position. Other airlines may not use this specific signaling system.
Social media reaction
The video quickly went viral, and people were quick to comment on the clip and share their knowledge of the ‘ding’ noises on airplanes.
One person said: When you hear three dings means there is a major problem. First time I ever heard that we entered major turbulence in a storm everyone be seated.
A second wrote: Always wondered what that was but I also thought it was the call button.
While a third commented: We only do a verbal announcement prior to takeoff, plus the 2 dings at 10,000 feet. No others at our airline.
Double ding, cleared for takeoff or landing. Single ding at 10k for sterile cockpit on/off. You’re welcome. Another added.
Someone else said: the main purpose of the 10k chime in US is because under 10k is a sterile cockpit. Pilots can not be disturbed during sterile cockpit unless it’s an emergency/ urgent.
The ‘ding’ noises on airplanes are not random sounds; they are part of an essential communication system between the cabin crew and the cockpit.
While the exact signals may differ by airline, the dings help ensure smooth communication and improve the flying experience. So, the next time you hear a ding, you’ll know exactly what it means.