Medical Experts Warn Against Viral Airplane Sleeping Trend Amid Safety Concerns
NEW YORK, N.Y. — A viral TikTok trend encouraging airplane passengers to sleep with their feet pulled onto seats and secured by seat belts has sparked warnings from medical professionals and airline staff alike. Videos circulating on social media depict travelers adopting this unconventional position during flights, claiming it improves sleep comfort. However, experts caution that the posture could elevate the risk of dangerous blood clots and thrombosis, particularly on long-haul journeys.
The trend has provoked mixed reactions online, with some passengers questioning its comfort and others highlighting concerns over etiquette and safety. Several users reported that flight attendants intervened to stop them from assuming the feet-up position, citing safety regulations. One commenter noted, “I tried to do this and the flight attendant made me stop,” while another recalled being “yelled at by a flight attendant” after attempting the pose.
Medical authorities emphasize that the position’s tightly compressed leg posture can hinder circulation, increasing the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Dr. Carole Lieberman, a Beverly Hills–based board-certified psychiatrist who has developed mental health programming for airline passengers, told Fox News Digital that the trend is “very dangerous because it keeps the legs in a tightly compressed position.” She warned that DVT can lead to pulmonary embolisms, which are potentially fatal.
According to the Mayo Clinic, prolonged immobility during flights is a known risk factor for blood clots. To mitigate this, travelers are advised to wear compression socks and regularly move their legs to promote healthy circulation.
Beyond health concerns, the trend raises questions about in-flight etiquette. Jacqueline Whitmore, an etiquette expert and former flight attendant based in Florida, highlighted that such behavior conflicts with standard expectations of respect and consideration for fellow passengers. The feet-up position can encroach on neighboring passengers’ space and cause discomfort.
Travelers preparing for holiday flights are urged to follow established safety guidelines from the Federal Aviation Administration and heed advice from flight crews. The FAA emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper posture and adhering to seatbelt use during flights to ensure passenger safety.
As the holiday travel season continues, awareness of the health risks associated with prolonged sitting and unconventional sleeping positions is crucial. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends passengers take frequent breaks to stand and stretch during flights and avoid positions that restrict blood flow.
While the search for comfort on crowded airplanes is understandable, experts caution that adopting risky sleeping postures may have serious consequences. Passengers are encouraged to prioritize safety and follow proven measures to reduce the risk of DVT and other complications during air travel.
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