RAF
A loo with a view: How to pee when piloting a plane without a generic piddle pack
RAF pilots are trialling a new automated in-flight relief system, Skydrate, designed to allow aircrew to urinate safely during long flights.
The system, which can store up to two litres of urine, uses a pad for female pilots and a cup for males, automatically pumping fluid away from the body.
While dehydration can rapidly reduce a pilot's performance, the innovation tackles a long-standing challenge in fast jets, where crews previously relied on piddle packs – essentially plastic bags – often forcing them to limit fluid intake.
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BFBS Forces News went to RAF Henlow in Bedfordshire to see how the system works and what pilots think about it.