Content and Editorial Director
We’ve all had that looming fear. Someone at the back of the plane sneezes, and you end up suffering from the flu for your entire vacation. And with COVID, concerns like these can reach stratospheric heights. But how legit are they?
Turns out flying might be safer than you thought.
Thanks to highly effective filters and efficient circulation on commercial aircrafts, the air you breathe in flight is much cleaner than the air in restaurants, bars, stores, or even your neighbor’s living room. Here’s what airlines are doing to clear the air.
Astounding Air Filtration
Most commercial aircraft are equipped with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. Air is pumped from the ceiling into the cabin at a speed of about a yard per second. About 40 percent of a cabin’s air gets filtered through this HEPA system, while the remaining 60 percent is fresh and piped in from outside the plane. On average, cabin air is completely changed every three minutes while the aircraft is cruising. Certified HEPA filters block and capture 99.97 percent of airborne particles over 0.3 micron in size. And, surprisingly, the filters are even more efficient for smaller particles.
Masks are Still a Must
Keep in mind, these fantastic filters only guarantee the quality of the air that has passed through them. HEPA filters and rapid-air circulation don’t work at maximum effectiveness until the plane is airborne. And don’t necessarily protect you from the chatty traveler seated next to you. That’s why, in addition to good filtration systems, airline cabins also need good passengers. And that means everyone onboard should wear
Sure, they can protect your eyes. But can blue light-blocking glasses help you sleep more soundly? Here’s what science has to say.
Read MoreEasy, delicious and packed with good ingredients, these no-bake, nearly raw snack balls are a treat.
Read MoreA simple, easy-to-complete test that gives unparalleled insight into hormone health seems like a dream; but with the DUTCH test, it’s very much a reality.
Read MoreMaintain that just-been-to-the-dentist pearly white smile with these pro tips and tricks.
Read MoreRelaxing, ocean-based therapy that will leave you feeling blissfully grounded.
Read MoreConcerned you might be drinking too much? Even if you don’t plan on becoming a total teetotaler, here are some tips on cutting back.
Read MoreTouted as a cure-all for whatever ails you, this simple procedure delivers a dose of fast-acting nutrients and deep hydration. Treatments are safe, effective and popping up in the most unexpected places.
Read MoreRamp up energy and vitality by adding these highly nutritious — and delicious — foods to your diet as often as possible.
Read MoreWe know we feel awful when a relationship ends. But science shows that heartbreak can also have negative — but reversible — physical effects.
Read MoreVariant title
$ 0.00
Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout