Flushing the toilet while seated on an airplane should not cause any harm or discomfort. The vacuum system used in airplane toilets is designed to handle flushing while someone is seated. However, it’s always a good idea to follow any specific instructions provided by the airline or cabin crew regarding toilet usage.
Airplane toilets, also known as lavatories, are designed to be compact and efficient due to the limited space available on aircraft. They typically utilize a vacuum system rather than the traditional water-flush system found in most residential toilets.
When you flush an airplane toilet, a valve opens to create a powerful suction that quickly and efficiently removes waste from the toilet bowl. The waste is then stored in an onboard tank, which is located in a separate compartment of the aircraft. The vacuum system helps conserve water and allows for more efficient waste disposal.
The design of airplane toilets takes into account the safety and comfort of passengers. Flushing the toilet while seated should not cause any issues or discomfort. However, it’s always a good idea to remain seated with the seat belt fastened whenever possible, especially during periods of turbulence.
Back in the early days of suction toilets (this one in the story was on a boat) there was an urban legend about a woman who had her guts sucked out by the toilet.
70-year-old woman’s intestines sucked out by vacuum toilet
When they designed aircraft suction toilets they installed what was called “vacuum breakers”. Either the seat was designed with a gap or raised off the toilet shroud by little blocks.
The next thing you ask is where does it end up. Well, it’s a shitty job and someone has to do it. Here’s a picture of the waste tanks. Those two black reinforced fibreglass tanks.
They are in the rear cargo hold, and generally are emptied at the end of every flight. Working on these when there were problems was not pleasant and it was mandatory to have had hepatitis shots and wear protective equipment, gloves, masks, etc.
By – Paul Rigg & Aeropeep Team