Passengers warned of potential peril when donning frequent flight attire by medical professional
In the skies, safety and comfort are paramount. However, a recent reminder from aviation specialists has highlighted potential risks associated with certain types of clothing, particularly tight garments like leggings and skinny jeans.
The primary concern revolves around circulation. Sitting for extended periods in a cramped cabin can lead to restricted blood flow, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious condition where blood clots form in deep veins. Tight clothing such as leggings and skinny jeans are identified as contributing factors, as they can hinder blood flow to and from the legs. Overly tight clothes can also cause conditions like compartment syndrome or meralgia paresthetica, resulting in numbness, tingling, and severe leg pain.
In addition to circulation issues, experts have raised concerns about the material of leggings and its potential fire hazard in the event of an emergency on board. Aviation specialist Christine Negroni and flight attendant Sille Rydell have both warned that synthetic fibres used in leggings could melt onto the skin, causing severe burns or exacerbating the impact of any fire.
Conversely, wearing compression garments like graduated compression leggings or knee-high socks is beneficial. These improve blood circulation by supporting leg veins, reducing swelling and fluid retention during long flights, and lowering the risk of blood clots and varicose veins. Compression wear stimulates blood flow back toward the heart and promotes muscle recovery after walking in airports.
So, what should passengers wear for a safe and comfortable flight? Experts recommend loose, non-restrictive clothing to prevent circulation issues and reduce the risk of DVT. Loose, comfortable clothes are preferred as they allow better circulation and swelling prevention. Comfortable footwear such as trainers is also advised to avoid bare feet on unsanitised airport floors and facilitate security checks.
In conclusion, experts advise against tight clothing on planes due to circulation concerns, recommend loose or graduated compression garments instead, and encourage comfortable footwear for hygiene and ease during travel. The material of leggings is not something you want to wear on an airplane due to the risk of fire. By following these guidelines, passengers can ensure a safer and more comfortable journey in the air.
- Tight clothing, such as leggings and skinny jeans, can hinder blood flow and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during flights.
- Compression garments like graduated compression leggings and knee-high socks are beneficial as they improve blood circulation, reduce the risk of blood clots, and promote muscle recovery.
- To ensure a safe and comfortable flight, passengers are advised to wear loose, non-restrictive clothing to prevent circulation issues and don comfortable footwear like trainers to avoid unsanitised airport floors and facilitate security checks.
- Synthetic fibres used in leggings could potentially melt onto skin during an emergency on board and cause severe burns or exacerbate the impact of any fire, making it advisable to avoid such materials for air travel.
