Khaberni - A British flight attendant warned of a common practice among travelers of placing one leg over the other while sitting on board a plane, indicating that this posture could increase the risk of blood clots during long flights.
According to the "Daily Express" site, the flight attendant, Barpibac La Azafata, explained that sitting cross-legged for long periods can disrupt blood flow in the legs, which raises the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis, a condition defined by the UK National Health Service (NHS) as a blood clot that typically forms in the leg.
Health guidelines advise not to place one leg over the other while sitting, especially during air travel, in addition to maintaining enough hydration, wearing comfortable and loose clothing, and trying to move or walk around the plane whenever possible.
The attendant also emphasized the importance of changing the sitting position several times during the flight, and avoiding putting feet on the front seat or sleeping leaning against the window, considering that these behaviors might affect comfort and overall health inside the cabin.
She said: "Sitting in a wrong position for a long time causes various pains, and with long flights, it may increase the risk of clots. It is best to change positions regularly."
In a related context, a former aviation expert, Sherry Peters, who has worked in the field for 27 years, offered tips for improving the travel experience, recommending choosing a window seat for those who wish for comfort and sleep, as it offers privacy and the possibility to lean on the plane's wall.
She also warned against seats near the bathrooms and the kitchen due to the frequent movement and noise there, making them less suitable for rest during flights.
