Never Do These 6 Things Before Flying! Former Flight Attendant Warns One Behavior Poses Highest Risk: Could Be Life-Threatening

Before traveling abroad, while packing and checking documents are essential, your physical condition and itinerary planning are equally important. Certain behaviors that seem harmless on the ground can lead to significant discomfort during flight due to changes in air pressure and dry cabin environments. A former international flight attendant from Japan with 10 years of experience has compiled a list of actions to avoid before flying—including drinking, tooth extraction, and diving—with diving immediately before flying posing the highest risk, potentially endangering lives.

According to the Japanese lifestyle website TRILL, the ex-flight attendant runs a YouTube channel called 'Sana Travel / 元国際線CAの旅情報,' which regularly shares travel and flight-related information. In a video released on July 11, the channel explains that although airplanes are common modes of transportation, the high-altitude environment differs greatly from ground level. Changes in air pressure and humidity can affect the body, so travelers should pay attention to their diet and physical condition before boarding.

Why Should You Limit Alcohol Before Flying? Dry Cabin Air Combined With Alcohol Increases Dehydration

The first thing to avoid is consuming large amounts of alcohol before boarding. The cabin environment is extremely dry, and alcohol accelerates dehydration—combining these two factors amplifies discomfort. The video advises moderation even when arriving early at the airport; drinking in lounges or restaurants should still be limited to avoid excessive intake before boarding.

Can You Fly Immediately After Tooth Extraction or Cosmetic Tattooing? Allow Time for Recovery

Flying right after a tooth extraction is also unadvisable. Due to changes in air pressure at high altitudes, the extraction site may experience pain or even re-bleed. The video recommends waiting 24 to 48 hours after a regular tooth extraction, and about one week after wisdom tooth removal. However, individuals should consult their dentist for personalized advice.

Cosmetic procedures such as eyebrow microblading, lip tinting, and tattoos also require caution. Low cabin humidity and dry conditions may cause treated areas to become dry, swollen, or red. If swelling leads to tightness or discomfort, long-haul flights can become significantly more unpleasant. Therefore, it’s not recommended to schedule long flights immediately after such treatments.

Wrong Food Choices May Cause Bloating? Beware of Ear Pain When Flying With a Stuffy Nose

Diet matters too. As atmospheric pressure drops at high altitudes, gases in the intestines can expand. Eating large amounts of beans, cabbage, or drinking excessive carbonated beverages before flying may lead to abdominal bloating and discomfort. It’s best to avoid overconsuming these foods.

Flying with a stuffy nose should not be taken lightly. Rapid pressure changes increase the risk of barotrauma (aviation-induced middle ear inflammation), particularly during descent, when ear pain or discomfort is more likely. The video suggests using nasal sprays, sucking on candy, or gently exhaling while pinching the nose and keeping the mouth closed to help equalize pressure inside and outside the ears.

How Long After Diving Can You Fly? Insufficient Interval May Trigger Decompression Sickness

One lesser-known but higher-risk item on the list is flying immediately after scuba diving. Nitrogen absorbed into the body during diving needs time to be released. If you board a plane before it’s fully expelled, the drop in cabin pressure at high altitudes may cause nitrogen to form bubbles in the bloodstream, leading to decompression sickness. In severe cases, this can be life-threatening.

The report states that after a single dive, it’s generally recommended to wait at least 12 hours before flying. For multiple consecutive dives over several days, the interval should be at least 18 hours. Planning this buffer period into your diving trip will make your return flight much safer and more comfortable.