Sleeping on Long-haul Flights: The Hidden Dangers of Drinking Alcohol Before Bed

Long-haul flights can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. A recent study has found that consuming alcohol before sleeping on a long-haul flight can pose health risks even for young and healthy passengers. The combination of alcohol consumption, sleep, and the low oxygen concentration at high altitudes can put stress on the cardiovascular system and prolong low levels of oxygen in the blood, known as hypoxaemia.

Researchers at the German Aerospace Center’s Institute of Aerospace Medicine and Aachen University recommend that airlines restrict the inflight consumption of alcoholic drinks to improve sleep quality. The study showed that alcohol consumption during inflight sleep can further decrease blood oxygen saturation, increase heart rate, and reduce deep sleep.

Even young and healthy participants in the study experienced clinically significant decreases in blood oxygen saturation and heart rate increases during sleep. The study warns that higher doses of alcohol could worsen these effects, potentially increasing the risk of health issues and medical emergencies during flight, particularly for older individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

In light of these findings, the researchers recommend avoiding alcohol consumption while flying to maintain overall health and reduce potential risks during long-haul flights. It’s important for passengers to prioritize their health during travel to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.