Why it is imperative to turn on the air conditioner on the plane so as not to get sick

What we breathe on the plane

The air we breathe during the flight is half of the outside air, and the other half is recirculated air inside the cabin. The airplane's ventilation system is designed in such a way that air is taken from the space in your row, filtered and returned to the same area. This reduces the risk of infection spreading throughout the cabin. The air in each zone is filtered 15 to 30 times per hour. Fine filters of the general ventilation system remove up to 99% of dust and microbes from the air.

However, to protect against airborne infections, it does not hurt to turn on the personal air conditioner above the chair.

If one of your neighbors is clearly unwell, this is the only way to protect yourself from infection.

How the air conditioner will help

The measles virus and the bacteria that cause tuberculosis are transmitted in the form of an airborne suspension of infectious particles, which can remain in the air for up to 5 hours. Viruses that cause diseases of the upper respiratory tract are larger and heavier, and therefore settle faster.

By turning on the air conditioner at medium or even low power, you will create an invisible air barrier around you, which will also contribute to the rapid settling of even the lightest particles.

As you know, the humidity in the aircraft cabin is very low, which causes dryness of the mucous membranes throughout the flight. In this state, the chances of catching an infectious disease increase, which means that contact with viruses must be avoided by all possible means.

Do not forget also that already settled particles rise into the air whenever it vibrates: for example, when someone coughs, sneezes, or just talks loudly. If possible, wipe down all surfaces you touch, and try not to touch anything with your hands unless absolutely necessary.