A seasoned commercial pilot has unveiled an unconventional yet surprisingly effective method for cleaning aircraft windows, involving a common household product that might raise a few eyebrows. The technique, which utilises fizzy drinks such as sparkling water or soda water, has been shared as a testament to pilot resourcefulness in situations where time is of the essence.
The Sparkling Solution to Windshield Woes
In a recent Instagram video that has captured the attention of aviation enthusiasts, pilot Joi Schweitzer demonstrated this clever cleaning hack. Schweitzer, who posts under the handle @thejoischweitzer, confidently stated in her clip: 'Believe it or not, this actually works.' She clarified that while some might mistake the liquid for sugary soft drinks like Sprite, the preferred choice is actually plain soda water.
Why Fizzy Water Works Wonders
The effectiveness of this method lies in the scientific properties of carbonated water. Schweitzer explained: 'There's no sugar or stickiness in soda water. Soda water has a tiny bit of natural acidity called carbonic acid, and that acid helps break down dirt, bugs, grime and probably even a little bit of bird poo.' Crucially, she emphasised that this approach won't damage the windshield coating, making it a safe alternative when proper cleaning solutions aren't immediately available.
This cleaning technique operates on several scientific principles:
- The carbonation in sparkling beverages helps to loosen and lift stubborn dirt particles from glass surfaces
- The natural mineral content provides additional cleaning power without resorting to harsh chemicals
- Unlike sugary alternatives, club soda or sparkling water leaves no streaks or sticky residue behind
A Nod to Aviation Tradition
Schweitzer was quick to point out that this method isn't standard airline procedure, but rather represents what she calls 'old-school pilot resourcefulness'. She described it as a 'bold, audacious move' that pilots might employ when they've requested a proper bug wash but find themselves pressed for time before departure.
Former commercial pilot Daniel Bubb, speaking to Reader's Digest, corroborated that sparkling beverages are occasionally used within aviation circles to tackle windshield cleanliness issues. Bubb noted: 'It is critical to keep aeroplane windshields clean for visibility and safety reasons.' While admitting he'd never personally used the method, he acknowledged: 'if it works, is not abrasive and does not cause damage over time, why not use it?'
Limitations of the Fizzy Fix
Aviation professionals stress that this fizzy solution has its limitations. The carbonated water method proves effective primarily for removing:
- Dead insects accumulated during flight
- General grime and residue
- Minor bird droppings
However, heavier contaminants such as grease or oil require stronger, specialised cleaning products that are part of standard aircraft maintenance protocols.
Other Aviation Cleaning Revelations
This window-cleaning revelation follows another recent disclosure about aircraft cleanliness that surprised many travellers. Flight attendant Brenda Orelus, known online as Flight Bae B, highlighted that seat-back pockets represent one of the dirtiest areas on planes, potentially harbouring more germs than lavatories.
The Miami-based crew member explained to her 98,000 TikTok followers that unlike toilets which receive regular cleaning, seat-back pockets often go untouched between flights. Orelus revealed she's witnessed passengers depositing everything from discarded food wrappers and used tissues to soiled nappies in these compartments, creating an environment ripe for bacterial growth.
These insights from aviation professionals provide fascinating glimpses into the practical challenges and creative solutions that characterise life in the skies, reminding us that sometimes the most effective answers come from unexpected sources.
