The bizarre reason flight attendants may say 'Cheerio' as you disembark the plane

are known to use secret phrases or words which have become cabin crew's "secret language". Some may have negative connotations while other words signal the highest flattery.

When arriving or disembarking a plane, flight attendants are well-known for being extremely friendly and warm, greeting all upon arrival including well wishes upon leaving. Most often passengers will hear a simple "hello" or "goodbye" but one word said during these pleasant formalities could mean something else entirely, indicating far more than just simple friendliness. This word used by cabin crew is another example of their secret language - and is good news if you do hear it.

When or if a flight attendant ever uses the word "cheerio", it often indicates that you've caught their eye.

This is according to a flight attendant who explained how using the word "cheerio" is a major compliment for a passenger to hear.

Speaking to , the expert explained: "When you are disembarking from the aircraft, if the flight attendant says 'cheerio' to you, this could also be code they have a secret crush."

The innocuous way of flirting is said to be used by cabin crew who may otherwise be too shy when it comes to declaring their attraction towards a passenger with most being unable to keep a straight face when saying it.

Another complimentary phrase used by cabin crew is when they say "see you later" which user Travel fanatic (@gowithgarret) further explained.

In the video shared on TikTok, Travel fanatic said: "Did you know that a lot of flight attendants play a game called 'see you later'?"

He further explained that most flight attendants will say goodbye, however if hearing "see you later", it could also indicate attraction.

He added: "So, next time you're getting off the plane and if that flight attendant says, 'see you later,' I would think twice on what that really means."

Other secret words used by cabin crew which are not as flattering as "cheerio" or "see you later" include the word "Cropdusting".

This is a term that's used when cabin crew break wind past a less-than-savoury passenger.

Other negative secret words by cabin crew include "Gate lice" and refers to passengers all congregating around the boarding area prior to the flight.

The term also relates to "passengers, often inexperienced flyers in [economy] class, who crowd around or line up at a gate at an airport completely blocking the boarding area and preventing First and Business Class passengers from being able to get on the plane when they're allowed to".

"Baby Jesus" is another phrase you don't want to hear from a cabin crew and is said when a child is being spoiled by its parents, treating the youngster as being the most important passenger onboard.