They come in pairs: one for the pilots, which usually sits above the cockpit and often includes two bunks and a recliner seat, and another for the cabin crew, usually containing six bunks or more and placed above the aft galley, the section at the back of the plane where food and drinks are prepared and stored.

On long-haul international flights in 2026, flight crews sleep in dedicated, hidden compartments known as Crew Rest Departments (CRCs). These are not visible to passengers and are often located above the ceiling of the first-class or economy cabins, accessed via a discreet ladder or stairs behind a door that looks like a closet or lavatory. For pilots, the rest area is typically located near the cockpit and features two bunks and sometimes a reclining seat. For flight attendants, the rest area (often called the "bunk") contains 6 to 10 narrow beds equipped with curtains, reading lights, and emergency oxygen. Crews sleep in shifts to ensure the aircraft is always staffed. These areas are strictly "no-noise" zones where staff use vibrating alarms on their phones to wake up for their next shift without disturbing others.