Is It Healthier to Fly in the Summer or Winter?
When it comes to air travel, most people focus on ticket prices, schedules, or vacation plans. But have you ever considered whether flying in the summer or winter has a bigger impact on your health? The truth is, the season you choose to fly can influence your physical well-being due to factors like air pollution, cabin conditions, and respiratory risks.
Let’s dive into the details of which season may be better for your health.
Air Quality and Pollution: A Summer Problem?
Air quality plays a huge role in our overall health, especially during air travel, when we are exposed to confined spaces and recycled air. Studies have shown that air pollution, particularly from particulate matter (PM10), tends to be more harmful in the summer than in the winter. The summer heat increases levels of ground-level ozone, a pollutant that worsens respiratory conditions like asthma.
One study found that mortality rates linked to particulate matter (PM10) were significantly higher in the summer than in the winter, especially in highly polluted regions (Nawrot et al., 2007). Another study showed that ozone levels in the summer aggravate respiratory issues in children, causing more frequent asthma attacks and lung function deterioration (Just et al., 2002).
Therefore, if you have any respiratory conditions or are more sensitive to pollution, summer air travel could pose a greater risk for your health.
Indoor Air Quality and Respiratory Health: Winter Woes
Although air pollution levels may be higher outdoors during the summer, flying in winter comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to indoor air quality. In colder months, homes, buildings, and even airplanes have poorer ventilation due to the use of heaters. This results in higher concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and other pollutants indoors.
One study found that NO2 levels during the winter are 2-3 times higher than in the summer, particularly in homes and spaces using non-vented stoves for heating (Matsuki et al., 1985). This means you may face increased exposure to indoor pollutants during winter flights due to the cabin environment.
Oxygen Levels: Consistent, No Matter the Season
Flying at high altitudes means reduced oxygen availability, and the airplane cabin is pressurized to mimic being at an altitude of around 6,000 to 8,000 feet. Studies show that flying can lower oxygen levels in passengers, regardless of the season. A study on oxygen saturation found that passengers experienced a significant drop during flights, with about half of them reaching oxygen levels of 94% or lower. This is particularly concerning for older adults or those with respiratory problems (Humphreys et al., 2005).
While reduced oxygen levels are a year-round issue, it’s important to be mindful of this if you have pre-existing conditions that could make you more vulnerable during a flight.
Conclusion: Which Season is Better for Flying?
If we weigh the pros and cons, flying in the summer may carry more significant health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues. Higher levels of ozone and particulate matter in the air during the summer months are more likely to exacerbate conditions like asthma or bronchitis. However, the indoor air quality during winter flights, worsened by poor ventilation and heating systems, also poses risks.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal health situation. If you are sensitive to outdoor pollution, winter flights may be slightly less risky. If indoor pollutants concern you, summer might be better—but be mindful of outdoor air quality at your destination!
Whichever season you fly, make sure to stay informed about the air quality at your destination and consider wearing a mask or using an air purifier to mitigate risks.
