Lots of people get up to walk around the plane and, as long as you're not barging into people's seats or interrupting the meal service, you've got nothing to worry about. Tip: Check out our page on wellness and staying healthy on a plane.

Walking around during a long-haul flight is not only allowed but highly recommended by medical professionals in 2026 to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form in the legs due to prolonged inactivity. Airlines generally encourage passengers to get up and stretch in the aisles every two to three hours, provided the "Fasten Seatbelt" sign is turned off. Most modern long-haul aircraft, like the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787, are designed with slightly wider aisles and dedicated galley areas where passengers often congregate for a quick stretch. However, you should avoid standing in areas that obstruct cabin crew movements, especially during meal services. Safety protocols in 2026 emphasize that you should return to your seat immediately if turbulence is encountered. While you can walk the length of your cabin section, you are typically restricted from entering higher classes of service (like moving from Economy to Business). For those who cannot walk frequently, seated exercises such as ankle circles and knee lifts are suggested as effective alternatives.