Travel health and safety

Learn more about how to plan ahead if you have a health condition, and find out how we create the safest possible environment for our passengers.

Deep-vein thrombosis

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of blood clots within vessels that can obstruct the flow of blood to a vital organ. During air travel, or any other scenario where a person is sitting down for a prolonged period of time, DVT can occur in the lower legs.

A series of six illustrations showing a man in an airplane seat performing leg exercises to improve circulation during flights. He wears a white shirt, red tie, and brown pants. The exercises include ankle rotations, leg lifts, knee lifts, and crossing legs, with arrows indicating movement directions.

How can I exercise inflight?

We encourage you to try these simple movements to loosen your muscles next time you fly. If you feel any pain or discomfort while doing any of these exercises, please stop immediately.

  1. Start by sitting comfortably, with your seat in an upright position.
  2. Rest both feet on the floor. Flex both feet – point your toes upward, and downward – repeating as many times as comfortable.
  3. Bend your upper body slightly forward and clasp your hands around one knee. Raise your knee gently towards the chest for a few seconds and then release, placing your foot back on the floor. Continue with the other leg, repeating 5 times on each side.
  4. Place your hands under one thigh and gently lift it up towards your chest. Rotate your ankle in a circular motion for 5 seconds before placing back downwards. Continue with the other leg, repeating 5 times on each side.

What if I have a history of DVT or active symptoms?
In case you have a history of suffering from a DVT, please consult with your treating doctor for further advice. If you have active symptoms you will be required to submit a MEDA-form for medical clearance.

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