Holiday travel is ramping up, and packed terminals can make it feel like everyone is sharing the same air. With millions of people flying to see family and friends, it is no surprise that sniffles and stomach bugs often tag along for the ride. A medical expert recently pointed out that avoiding illness on a flight is less about luck and more about smart, simple choices.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that the main danger comes from what you touch. Dr. Neha Pathak, chief physician editor of health and lifestyle medicine at WebMD, says the bigger risk for most travelers is what they breathe. Many respiratory viruses spread primarily through the air and close contact, which is why crowded boarding lines and tight rows can matter more than a smudged armrest.
That said, surfaces are not off the hook. Pathak notes that the classic stomach bug is the germ she worries about most when it comes to touch points, because it can be tough and linger on surfaces for days. Airplane bathrooms and high touch areas are an obvious problem, but tray tables can be a sneaky one too. If someone is sick with a vomiting and diarrhea virus, it is far more likely to hitch a ride on shared surfaces than flu or COVID.
So where should you sit if you want to lower your odds of getting sick. Pathak’s pick is a window seat, ideally positioned away from the bathroom. The logic is practical rather than dramatic. With a window seat, fewer people brush past you, you are exposed to less aisle traffic, and you end up with fewer close contacts during the flight.
Seat choice is only part of the plan. Pathak recommends keeping your hands clean, sanitizing regularly, and being intentional about not touching your face, especially your mouth and nose. She also says she turns on the overhead air vent, which can help keep air moving in your immediate space. And for anyone who wants an extra layer of protection during peak travel season, she suggests wearing a mask.
What is your go to strategy for staying healthy on a flight, and do you have a favorite seat for avoiding the midair germ swap. Share your thoughts in the comments.
