Is It Tiring to Fly a Plane for Long Hours?

One of the most common concerns regarding long flights is the fatigue that sets in during the journey. This fatigue can be influenced by various factors including the duration of the flight, the type of aircraft, and the passenger's overall health and body position. In this article, we will explore the reasons why flying for long periods can be tiring and discuss the measures passengers can take to mitigate this fatigue.

Fatigue During Extended Flights

One of the flight crew members who shared their experience emphasized the physical and mental strain of extended flights. The longest they ever flew was a six-hour leg in formation to Hawaii and back, but the most tiring was a night double cycle barcap that lasted about four hours from launch to recovery. This highlights the significant impact long flights can have on the human body and mind.

Factors Contributing to Passenger Fatigue

The extended duration of flights is one of the primary causes of fatigue. However, passengers on long haul flights are not the only ones experiencing this issue. Flight crew members also face long hours, often required to make thoughtful decisions and follow plans. Just the act of maintaining a high level of awareness for prolonged periods can be quite fatiguing.

Adding to the fatigue, cabin air pressure in some aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, can be pressurized at a higher level, providing more oxygen and helping passengers feel less dehydrated due to the faster evaporation of water at higher altitudes. However, the benefit of a higher pressurized cabin may not be as significant on smaller commuter planes, which operate at lower cabin air pressures.

Two well-known reasons for feeling fatigued during flights are dehydration and the physical strain from maintaining a fixed position. Cabin air, especially at high altitudes, is very dry, which can lead to dehydration. Drinking water consciously can help mitigate this issue. Additionally, sitting in a fixed position can tire out a passenger's muscles, making it more challenging to move around as freely as one would on the ground.

Cabin Air Pressure and Its Impact

The cabin air pressure in modern aircraft is typically at a level that mimics an altitude of 8,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. This altitude is lower than the typical cruising altitude of an aircraft (approximately 35,000 feet), but it is still high enough to cause the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue, in some passengers.

Passengers on smaller commuter planes may experience even more pronounced effects due to the lower cabin air pressure, which may further contribute to dehydration and discomfort during the flight. This is a significant factor when considering the overall experience and comfort of passengers on extended flights.

Psychological Fatigue and Its Causes

The psychological aspect of fatigue during flights is equally important. Being in a fixed position combined with the stress of various pre-flight and post-flight activities, such as getting to the airport early, standing in long lines, removing shoes and belts for security checks, and waiting for baggage, can all contribute to a state of psychological fatigue. This is especially true for early morning flights that require significant preparation and can be quite challenging for travelers.

For instance, a traveler’s typical journey might involve getting up at 4:00 AM, arriving at the airport by 5:30 AM, and boarding a flight that departs at 7:30 AM. The early start and long waiting times at the airport can add to the overall stress and fatigue, further compounding the physical discomfort of the flight.

Conclusion

While long flights can indeed be tiring, understanding the factors contributing to passenger fatigue can help in taking proactive measures to mitigate the effects. Maintaining proper hydration, moving around when possible, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can all contribute to a more comfortable and less tiring flight experience.

You are not alone in experiencing fatigue during long flights. Many passengers find themselves in similar situations. By understanding the causes and taking necessary precautions, you can reduce your physical and mental strain, making even long flights more bearable.