LIFT OFF

The five things you’re allowed to take from on board planes – as long as you ask nicely

Some airlines know to expect that their passengers will pocket certain items they keep on planes

• Jessica Baker

• Published: 0:06, 8 Jan 2024
• Updated: 14:00, 8 Jan 2024

THERE are a number of fun items that passengers are within their rights to swipe from planes - as long as they ask nicely.

One avid flyer has revealed the five top amenities and souvenirs that freebie-lovers won't want to miss out on.

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Secret trading cards

At the very top of traveller Harriet Baskas' list of quirky keepsakes are Delta Air Lines' secret trading cards.

According to Delta, one of the US' leading airlines, "When they’re not busy preparing for flight or flying our customers to their next adventure, our pilots carrying these fan-favourite cards are more than happy to hand one out to any customer who asks nicely."

The unique series of cards, created by Delta employees, is refreshed every five years and features different plane models.

There are 11 card types in the current collection, the latest in a program which has been active for more than 20 years.

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Wing pins

Passengers might also be able to score a small wing pin with the airline's insignia, depending on who they fly with.

Delta and Alaska Airlines are two of many that offer plane wings for kids and first-time flyers.

But Alaska Airlines' are particularly special because they are metal - most are plastic - and in short supply.

Alaska Airlines told The Points Guy: "Keep in mind, only about 20 are provisioned for an aircraft that may fly several legs, so we apologize if we run short"

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Another major airline based in the US and the world's second largest low-cost carrier after Ryanair, Southwest Airlines, has entertainment kits with wings inside them for kids - and adults who ask nicely.

An airline spokesperson said: "It's got fidget spinners, wings, activity books, little crowns, mini playing cards...

"So just ask."

Little Delft houses

Long-haul business-class passengers flying with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the flag carrier of the Netherlands, will be able to snag one of their trademark Delft Blue miniature house.

KLM states on its website: "You’ve probably seen them around: our Delft Blue miniature houses, filled with Dutch gin.

"Each one depicts a real Dutch building. These unique gifts have been around since the 1950s and are a true collector’s item!

"You receive one when travelling in Business Class on an intercontinental route."

The airline commissions a new house each year which it releases in October, on the anniversary of its founding in 1919.

This year's house is the 104th in the series and portrays the oldest existing train station in the Netherlands, Valkenburg aan de Geul.

Salt and pepper shakers

Some airlines, such as Virgin Atlantic, know to expect that their passengers will pocket certain items they keep on planes.

The British airline hinted in a post on X in October 2022 that it had added the phrase "pinched from Virgin Atlantic" to the base of its salt and pepper shakers in a cheeky dig at culprits.

Amenity kits

Pyjamas and sleepy-time amenity kits, often gifted by airlines to long-haul premium passengers, are also worth pocketing.

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American airline United Airlines recently unveiled a new amenity kit filled with products from wellness technology brand Therabody.

Meanwhile, Emirates continues to provide its first- and business-class passengers with a variety of high-end products including an engraved Bulgari mirror.

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