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Who should not fly on an airplane?

This includes those with cardiac failure, recent myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke, angina (chest pain) at rest, heart rate or rhythm disorders, uncontrolled arterial hypertension, severe anemia, sickle-cell anemia, acute mental disorders, epilepsy, and any serious or contagious diseases.



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This includes those with cardiac failure, recent myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke, angina (chest pain) at rest, heart rate or rhythm disorders, uncontrolled arterial hypertension, severe anemia, sickle-cell anemia, acute mental disorders, epilepsy, and any serious or contagious diseases.

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if you suffer from or have had:
  • angina or chest pain at rest.
  • an infectious disease (e.g. chickenpox, flu), including COVID-19.
  • decompression sickness after diving (sometimes called 'the bends')
  • increased pressure in the brain (due to bleeding, injury or infection)
  • infection of your ears or sinuses.
  • recent heart attack.


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Unstable heart disease is associated with a higher risk of adverse events due to flying, and you may need to avoid flying, at least temporarily, until your condition is well controlled. People with pacemakers or implantable defibrillators can fly safely.

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It is safe to fly with high blood pressure if the medical condition is well controlled. However, if your hypertension is extremely high and unstable, it is best to avoid boarding a plane. A consultation with your doctor before flying is primordial to know if you are fit to fly.

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There isn't any legally imposed limit as far as we're aware, but a high blood pressure must be controlled with medication before you travel for your safety. For example, blood pressure is considered high if over 140/90mmHg, so if your blood pressure is consistently above this value then it is important to reduce it.

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Ability to travel is not a function of age, says Schaefer, who writes a blog about senior travel. It's determined by your physical and mental fitness.

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Air travel increases the risk of developing blood clots in the veins of the legs, which can then enter the bloodstream and block an artery in the lungs, a condition called pulmonary embolism. In some cases, the opening can allow the blood clot to enter the arteries of the brain, causing a stroke.

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Whilst people with arrhythmia are generally safe to fly, it is crucial to discuss your travel plans with your GP before you book. Those living with heart conditions may have an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on a flight, so taking steps to reduce this risk could be critical.

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But remember, you may need to adjust these movements according to the available space on the plane and the status of the seat belt sign.
  1. Regular walks. ...
  2. Ankle rotations. ...
  3. Fast feet. ...
  4. Calf raises. ...
  5. Leg extensions. ...
  6. Knee hugs. ...
  7. Glute clenches. ...
  8. Hip circles.


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7 Things to Avoid Doing on a Plane
  • Sitting still for too long. ...
  • Don't make stupid jokes. ...
  • Drinking excessively. ...
  • Place your feet or arms in the way. ...
  • Forget to listen to the safety briefing. ...
  • Get a tea or coffee. ...
  • Recline without thinking.


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Just like a bag of peanuts mid-flight, air pressure changes will cause you to inflate. A build-up of gas can lead to bloating, constipation and stomach pains. Lack of movement leads to fluid build-up around the body, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

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FAR Part 121 (major airline regulations) require all pilots to retire at the age of 65.

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Since commercial flights are pressurized to 6000 – 8000 ft, older adults with stable cardiovascular disease should be able to fly without risk.

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Best Available Seats For Seniors
Most seniors prefer getting seated at or near the front of the plane, which provides more legroom and a shorter walk to the restroom.

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Blood clots can sometimes form in your legs during air travel because you are immobile for long periods of time, often sitting in cramped spaces with little leg room. The clinical term for this type of blood clot is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The longer the flight, the more at risk you are for developing a clot.

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Those with severe or decompensated congestive heart failure should avoid flying commercially. Patients with implantable cardiac devices may need special attention when flying long distances. They can fly safely once medically stable.

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