September-October 2007 | Back to Travel Express Home |

Tips for a More Comfortable Flight

A number of factors, including cabin pressure, dry air, and lack of personal space, can make air travel potentially uncomfortable for passengers. While some of these elements are simply facts of life on a plane and are out of a traveler’s control, there are a few things travelers should keep in mind to make air travel more pleasant.

Cabin Pressure

Studies have shown that the air pressure inside the plane’s cabin can contribute to a general feeling of discomfort. Most airplanes are pressurized to a level equivalent to 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. This altitude is unnoticed by most people, but may trigger dizziness when moving around, especially in persons with anemia or lung disease. Passengers without heart, blood or lung diseases can usually adjust to this change without noticing it, but bear in mind that low oxygen in combination with alcohol, inactivity and/or sleep can make a person feel dizzy or faint. Avoiding alcohol and doing arm and leg exercises before standing up can help combat these side effects. Chewing gum or swallowing during takeoff and landing can also reduce ear discomfort.

Dry air

The relatively low level of humidity of cabin air can be another source of discomfort. Dehydration, dry skin, and dry eyes are all symptoms of a passenger reacting to dry air. Drinking water, as well as avoiding alcohol and caffeine, can help with dehydration. Using skin moisturizers and wearing glasses instead of contact lenses should also help relieve dry skin and eyes. Dry air can also aggravate allergies or asthma, so travelers with those conditions should take necessary precautions.

Personal space

For travelers flying in coach class, tight quarters are often a challenge. Especially for taller passengers, it may not be possible to stretch out much in the seat. One potential side effect that can occur in planes (or trains, cars, buses or other tight spaces), is blood clots in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis. To avoid this risk, travelers should move about the cabin periodically during times the captain has the seatbelt sign turned off. If possible, travelers should also try not to stow bags under the seat in front of them, in order to free up more leg room for stretching.

General tips for a more pleasant flight also include getting enough rest before takeoff, avoiding overeating, and consulting with a doctor about any health concerns that could be aggravated by air travel.