Viral Airplane Sleeping Trend Spurs Deadly Blood Clot Safety Warnings

A viral TikTok sleeping trend is raising alarms across the commercial aviation sector.

The trend shows passengers pulling their feet onto their seats. They then secure their legs using the airplane seat belt to sleep. This dangerous airplane sleeping position has drawn mixed reactions. While some seek comfort, medical experts warn of serious passenger safety warnings.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Risk

Medical professionals caution that this position is very dangerous. It keeps the legs in a tightly compressed position for long periods. This compression can significantly increase the deep vein thrombosis risk (DVT). DVT is a condition where blood clots form in deep veins, often in the legs. These blood clots on planes can lead to life-threatening consequences. Dr. Carole Lieberman warned that DVT can cause pulmonary embolisms. Pulmonary embolisms can be deadly if the clot travels to the lungs.

Prolonged sitting during flights already increases the risk of blood clots. This risk is tied to immobility during long flight health risks. Health bodies like the Mayo Clinic confirm this link. Experts from the IATA and the CDC note that most travel-related clots occur in those with pre-existing risk factors. The absolute risk of symptomatic DVT is low, but it is increased on flights over four hours.

Flight Crew Intervention and Etiquette

The viral TikTok sleeping trend also conflicts with standard airplane travel etiquette. Placing feet on seats is generally considered poor manners, according to etiquette experts. Furthermore, multiple users reported direct flight attendant intervention. Flight crews made them stop when they attempted the setup onboard.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and EASA regulations require passengers to obey crew instructions. Crewmembers enforce rules related to safety and proper seating. While no specific rule bans feet on seats, flight attendants can intervene for safety or comfort reasons. Crew also ensure the airplane seat belt safety is maintained. Belts must be worn low and tight across the hips during critical phases. Any setup that compromises the belt's function in turbulence is a concern.

Mitigating Long Flight Health Risks

To reduce the long flight health risks, experts advise simple steps. Passengers should move their legs regularly while seated. Walking around the cabin when permitted is also highly recommended. Wearing compression socks can help support proper circulation. For those at high risk, a medical professional may recommend additional prophylaxis.

Passengers are urged to prioritize safety over viral comfort hacks. Following crew instructions is paramount for the safety of all onboard. For more updates on commercial aviation news and safety, visit flying.flights.

• The deep vein thrombosis risk increases due to compressed leg position.
• Medical experts warn blood clots can lead to deadly pulmonary embolisms.
• Flight attendant intervention is common due to safety and etiquette concerns.
• Simple measures like regular movement and compression socks reduce DVT risk.