Fainting on a plane: what to know and do

Cabin conditions, a crowded aisle, missed meals and alcohol can add to light-headedness. Warning signs may include nausea, sweating, blurred vision, warmth or weakness. Anaemia, low blood sugar, dehydration or an irregular heart rhythm can also contribute, so the setting alone does not identify the cause.

Tell cabin crew immediately. Lie back if possible, or sit with your head lowered while someone supports you. Do not stand or walk alone after recovering. Loosen tight clothing, take slow breaths and sip water when fully alert and able to swallow. Avoid eating or drinking if you remain drowsy or nauseated.

Ask for urgent medical assessment if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, a severe headache, a racing or irregular heartbeat, ongoing confusion, weakness on one side, a seizure, significant injury or repeated fainting. Seek medical advice after landing if this was your first episode, happened without warning, or keeps recurring.

Ask whether you need an examination, an ECG or blood tests, and whether medicines, travel habits or an underlying condition could have played a part. Note what you ate and drank, how long you were seated, your warning symptoms and how quickly you recovered.