Why Do Flight Attendants Always Bring a Banana on the Plane?

Being a flight attendant is a dream job for many. It allows them to travel to numerous destinations while earning a respectable income. However, most female flight attendants have a particular habit before flights: they often bring a banana on board. But why? Let’s find out!

The Benefits of Carrying a Banana

Everyone knows that bananas are a wonderful fruit that offer many health benefits — especially for flight attendants. For instance, bananas can protect the stomach lining. This lining shields the stomach wall from being damaged by gastric acid.

If the lining becomes irritated or injured, it may lead to stomach pain, ulcers, or other digestive issues. Because flight attendants often experience stomach discomfort due to irregular eating habits, bananas are especially helpful. They contain natural compounds that stimulate the growth and regeneration of stomach lining cells, keeping it stronger and healthier. That’s why eating a banana can help protect their stomach.

Moreover, bananas can lower blood pressure. Abnormal blood pressure — whether too high or too low — puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular problems. Flight attendants are at higher risk of hypertension and heart-related conditions because of frequent long-haul flights at high altitudes. Bananas are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps the body eliminate excess sodium and regulate blood pressure. Therefore, eating a banana can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Why Female Flight Attendants Carry Bananas on the Plane

Another important reason is that bananas help moisten the intestines. Poor intestinal function can cause constipation and digestive discomfort — problems flight attendants often face due to an irregular lifestyle and unbalanced diet. Bananas contain pectin, a type of dietary fiber that aids digestion, regulates bowel function, and helps prevent constipation. Eating a banana helps keep their digestive system smooth and healthy.

In addition, bananas boost energy and improve alertness. Their natural sugars provide a quick energy source, helping flight attendants stay refreshed and adapt more easily to changing time zones across the world.