A Virgin Atlantic certifying engineer with 16 years of experience has revealed that AirPods are the most common item passengers lose onboard aircraft. Kathy Johnson, speaking as part of the airline's Flight School on Instagram, said she has become an 'expert' at rescuing the wireless earbuds, which easily slip out of ears or cases and fall into seat crevices.
Johnson, who works mainly in the cabin, is often called upon to retrieve lost items. 'I am also the person they call if you lose anything in your seat,' she explained. While AirPods are a frequent find, a 2018 survey by a Hong Kong airline listed the top 10 lost items as iPads, mobile phones, neck pillows, water bottles, clothing, scarves, glasses, Kindles, cameras, and passports.
Some discoveries are more unusual. A Reddit forum for airline workers shared odd finds including a baby in a car seat, a pet in a carrier box, and fake passports. A flight attendant recalled finding maps, wedding rings, and Trivial Pursuit cards. Ground staff noted that items like baby strollers, wheelchairs, and sports equipment are often left unclaimed at baggage belts.
Most lost property is handed in to airport lost and found. Heathrow Airport, for example, lists items in an online database. Passengers can claim their belongings but may face a service fee of up to £20, plus postage and packing for delivery.
