See Inside Flight Attendants' Hidden Sleeping Quarters

Long-haul journeys can be exhausting for hardworking flight attendants as well as passengers, but where do crew go to unwind and escape demanding flyers?

Many Boeing 777 and 787 planes feature a secret staircase that leads to a tiny set of windowless bedrooms known as Crew Rest Departments (CRCs).

Fascinating images provide a rare glimpse inside these confined areas, which few people have a chance to witness for themselves.

The size and position of these spaces varies depending on each aircraft model, but they are typically nestled away behind the cockpit area, located above first class.

On Boeing 777s, there are between six to ten beds, each containing storage space for flight attendants' belongings during the journey.

This model of plane also includes a separate area for pilots, with two beds, two business-class seats and, in some airlines, a bathroom area with a sink or lavatory.

Some bays come with entertainment systems, a blanket, pillows and on occasion, pajamas, with each bed separated by draped heavy curtains which muffle out the sounds of other crew.

A British Airways flight attendant revealed to MailOnline Travel: "On the 777 it feels like you are in a coffin.

"They are cramped but you can make it comfortable as you get a blanket and a pillow.

"I always take my own pajamas and I make a little bed up. I sometimes try to take pillows and blankets from business class if they aren't in use.

"It's very basic, some have TVs but they are tiny, smaller than iPad minis."

There is a strict policy of one staff member to each bunk, which usually stretches 6ft long by 2.5ft wide.

- Daily Mail