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[–] 2 points 2 years ago (3 children)

In fairness, they can't just pop down to the hardware store and use one of those soap dispensers, since the changes in air pressure at altitude would cause them to leak all their contents or pop.

The average dispenser is basically two one-way valves, and a flexible tube you compress to squeeze it out (or a bottle with a pump). Everything inside would be forced out by the lower air pressure.

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  • [–] 1 point 2 years ago (2 children)

    What planes are you flying on that aren't pressurized?

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  • [–] 2 points 2 years ago (1 child)

    Planes don't maintain sea-level atmospheric pressure the whole time. That's why your ears pop in-flight.

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  • [–] 1 point 2 years ago*

    They barely ever do. Only when landing to an airport at sea level. Upon take off, the cabin pressure is gradually increased until the regulatory 8000 ft, which is maintained majority of the flight.

    You experience the same pressure changes while driving in the mountains, with the good ol' ear popping.

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