American and United Airlines passengers have been warned not to wear jeans or tight leggings on flights this August. This warning has come as a surprise for many passengers as they gear up for late-summer travel.
While jeans and tight leggings are the favorite wear for many because they are comfortable, aviation experts and doctors are warning that these types of clothing can affect your health and safety while flying, especially for long hours.
Why Your Travel Outfit Matters More Than You Think
To many, this warning seems excessive, but experts like Dr. Hugh Pabarue, a vein specialist with Metro Vein Centers, say that tight clothing, especially around the ankles, waist, and legs, can interfere with blood circulation during flights.
“Wearing leggings and other restrictive garments, such as skinny jeans that are too tight, reduces blood’s ability to flow into and out of the legs,” Dr. Pabarue told HuffPost.
Christine Negroni, an aviation safety expert, adds that besides circulation, tight clothes such as leggings are made of synthetic fabrics, made from petroleum products. Therefore, in the event of a fire outbreak, tight synthetic materials could melt onto the skin due to high heat, causing serious burns and hindering easy escape from the aircraft.
“You have a tight garment that is usually made from synthetic fibers, made from petroleum products, which is not something you want to wear on an airplane because the largest risk in a survivable air accident is fire,” Negroni told HuffPost. “If you’re not damaged beyond an ability to exit, to get out of the airplane, then you might be affected by the fire,” Negroni added.
So, What Should You Wear When Flying?
Dr. Peter J. Pappas, a vascular surgeon with the Center for Vein Restoration, advises passengers to wear medical-grade compression garments because they allow easy blood circulation. Additionally, they reduce the risk of swelling and clotting at high altitudes for people suffering from circulation issues and those with varicose veins.
Simple Travel Tips That Can Keep You Safer
Besides wearing the right clothing during travel, experts recommend passengers to also:
- Walk short distances along the aisle to allow blood circulation
- Avoid crossing your legs because it can restrict blood flow
- Stay hydrated to reduce the risk of clotting
- Loosen up waistbands and anklets or similar accessories in your body for more comfort and easy blood circulation
Conclusion
While leggings and tight jeans are preferences for many passengers, they are not the best options when flying, especially for long hours. It is crucial to choose the right clothing not just to look good but for the sake of your health and safety in case of an emergency.
The next time you are traveling by air, think beyond convenience and consider safety because a simple wardrobe change could make a big difference.