Sam Remcho, a private pilot from California, USA, shared on TikTok how pilots address personal needs during flights. He explained that pilots in small aircraft, lacking space for a restroom, must manage their needs.

When necessary, pilots use a "relief tube" located in a hidden compartment between the control panels. The tube consists of a black, cone-shaped funnel connected to a long tube. Remcho explained that pilots relieve themselves into the funnel and then pull a lever to release the contents below the aircraft. "It evaporates before it hits the ground," he said.

However, Remcho admitted he has never used the device and prefers not to, as he would then have to clean the underside of the plane, a task few pilots relish.

Relief tube on a private plane. Image taken from video

Larger commercial aircraft, with ample space, typically have two to three onboard restrooms. Depending on the flight length, the cockpit is staffed by two to three pilots who can take breaks during the flight. However, for smaller aircraft, helicopters, or military planes, having a toilet is a luxury.

Pilot Garrett Ray also addressed the popular topic of pilot salaries at major US airlines.

Large commercial aircraft have restrooms for passengers and crew, but smaller planes do not. Image: Auto e volution

As a first officer, Ray earns over 210 USD per flight hour. However, his actual income depends on flight hours and schedule. Ray explained that he always tries to maximize his time at home and his pay when working away. While he enjoys the New York to Phoenix, Arizona route with its 24-hour layover, it only provides a little over 10 paid flight hours while requiring 40 hours away from home.

Anh Minh (From DM, Tiktok)