EasyJet advises passengers to ‘move about in seat’ on flights

The airline shared an important reminder for passengers, especially travellers making long journeys

easyJet has urged passengers to stay hydrated and keep mobile during flights. The airline shared the guidance on its website, alongside other health tips, to help keep passengers safe in the air.

On a dedicated page about boarding and flying, easyJet highlights the risks of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), which is a blood clot in a vein. While rare, the condition can prove fatal, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital explains. The NHS hospital explained: “Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot (also known as a thrombosis) that forms in a deep vein, most commonly in your leg or pelvis which can cause pain and swelling.

“If a clot becomes dislodged and passes through your blood vessels it can reach your lungs, this is called a pulmonary embolism which can cause breathlessness.” People who make long journeys face a higher risk of getting DVT.

According to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital: “The risk of DVT within the general population is 1:1000. This risk is increased with long journeys (more than four hours), particularly flying. The evidence is less conclusive for shorter journeys and flights but if you are at high risk it would be worth taking precautions.”

easyJet shared similar advice on its website, alongside a number of practical tips for flyers. The airline said: “Sitting for long periods poses the greatest risk in developing DVT. Here are some useful tips:

• Drink plenty of water before, during and after the flight
• Keep mobile – walk around the cabin whenever you can
• Move about in your seat and change position
• Avoid crossing your legs
• Wear support tights.”

What does the NHS say about DVT and planes?

The NHS website states that you have a higher chance of getting DVT if you go on a long journey of more than four hours, by train, plane, or car. The guidance said: “If you’re travelling for four hours or more by plane, train or car, there are things you can do during the journey to lower your chances of getting DVT. These include:

• wearing loose clothing
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding alcohol
• walking around when possible.”

According to the NHS, DVT is more likely for some people, including people who are aged over 60, smoke, have varicose veins, or take certain contraceptives. The NHS added that sometimes DVT happens for no obvious reason, reports the Mirror.

Health experts say symptoms of DVT in the leg include throbbing pain in one leg, swelling in one leg, swollen veins, and red, blue or darkened skin around the painful area. These symptoms could also appear in your arm if the clot is there.

“Sometimes the only symptom you may have is pain in your lower tummy. This is a symptom of pelvic vein thrombosis, but this is rare,” the NHS added.

The NHS said you should ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if you think you have DVT. Call 999 or go to A&E if you have symptoms and feel short of breath or have chest pain.

The health authority explained: “DVT can be very serious because blood clots can travel to your lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening and needs treatment straight away.”