While the appearance of the cabin crew is not as important as it was in the past, it is still preferred by many airlines that candidates be proportionate. The appearance of flight attendants is also important for practical reasons, not just aesthetics. In the event of an emergency on a flight, it is generally more difficult for overweight individuals to deal with the situation, as well as work long shifts which include lifting heavy luggage, assisting passengers, and moving about the cabin. Very tall people may not fit into the aircraft easily, while very short people may not be able to reach the overhead compartments. Lastly, it is important that a flight attendant be in good shape, as this makes it easier to manage with the unusual physical strains of being a flight attendant, such as irregular sleep patterns, poor eating habits, and constantly breathing recycled air.