In terms of mile-high style, comfort should be prioritized over fashion when dressing for a flight. American Airlines flight attendant Andrea Fischbach suggests avoiding constricting clothing to prevent cramping, swelling, and other issues that can arise due to changes in air pressure and water retention during flights. Elastic fabrics and loose garments are recommended to reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, a type of blood clot that can occur while flying. Fischbach emphasizes the importance of moving around during the flight and keeping blood flowing to prevent health issues.
Fischbach also emphasizes the importance of being able to move around in your seat, especially for tall individuals, frequent travelers, and those taking long flights. Clothing with some give in the fabric and waistband is recommended to ensure comfort during travel. Dressier pants with stretch are a comfortable choice, and Fischbach suggests asking flight attendants to hang up blazers during the flight. In case of an emergency, she advises wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to provide protection when evacuating the aircraft.
Clothing choices can impact safety during emergencies on flights. Fischbach warns against wearing garments that hinder your ability to evacuate, such as high heels, backless sandals, or other impractical footwear. In an emergency, high heels could puncture evacuation slides, and flip-flops or slides are not suitable for running from gate to gate. Certain fabrics, such as fringe jackets, could pose a flammability risk in the event of a fire. Fischbach recommends wearing non-hazardous clothing to ensure safety in emergencies.
When traveling, it is important to consider the functionality of your attire, especially in terms of footwear. High heels, flip-flops, and slides are not advisable for flight travel, as they can pose safety risks during evacuations and may not be practical for moving quickly between gates. Additionally, wearing jewelry should be avoided while going through TSA security checkpoints to prevent setting off the machines. Certain metal objects in jewelry could be mistaken for weapons, causing delays during security screenings.
Being prepared for the cold temperatures often present on airplanes is also essential. Fischbach recommends dressing in layers and packing spare clothes in case of emergencies. Blankets are not always provided on flights, so dressing warmly is important to ensure comfort during the journey. Fabric flammability should also be taken into consideration when choosing attire for flights, to reduce the risk of hazards in the event of a fire onboard. By prioritizing comfort, safety, and practicality when selecting clothing for travel, passengers can ensure a more comfortable and secure flying experience.
