G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
A viral TikTok trend claiming to improve sleep on planes has drawn serious warnings from aviation experts and medical professionals. The so-called "seatbelt sleep hack," which involves passengers wrapping their seatbelts around their ankles while pulling their knees to their chest, has gained millions of views on social media. While some travelers praise the technique for making economy-class seating more comfortable, flight attendants and safety authorities are sounding the alarm about its risks.
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, has strongly condemned the practice, calling it "extremely dangerous." She emphasized that seatbelts are specifically designed to sit low and tight across the lap to protect passengers in case of turbulence, emergency landings, or accidents. Incorrect seatbelt use not only endangers the individual but also poses a risk to nearby passengers. Turbulence is a leading cause of in-flight injuries, and being improperly restrained increases the likelihood of being thrown from the seat, potentially injuring others.
Beyond safety concerns, attempting this hack could lead to legal consequences. Nelson warned that failure to follow proper seatbelt regulations is a violation of federal aviation laws, and passengers who refuse to comply could face fines of up to $35,000. Airlines enforce strict safety protocols for a reason, and disregarding them could have serious implications.
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions online. Some travelers argue that cramped economy seating forces passengers to seek unconventional ways to sleep comfortably. Others criticize airlines for reducing legroom and making long-haul flights increasingly uncomfortable. However, aviation experts insist that passenger safety must take priority over convenience. The dangers of securing a seatbelt around the ankles, particularly in the event of sudden turbulence, far outweigh any perceived benefits.
Medical experts have also raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with this sleeping position. Dr. Nathan Connell, a hematologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School, cautions that restricting blood flow in the legs could increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). While flight durations of more than four hours may slightly raise the likelihood of blood clots, flights over eight hours pose a more significant risk. Connell advises travelers to avoid positions that limit circulation, stay hydrated, and move around the cabin when possible.
Blood clots are a serious health risk for long-haul travelers, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. Although the overall incidence of travel-associated clots is low, certain behaviors—such as sitting in a restricted position for extended periods—can increase susceptibility. Passengers should prioritize proper posture, wear loose clothing, and stretch their legs periodically to maintain healthy circulation.
Despite its popularity on social media, the seatbelt sleep hack is a clear example of how viral trends can promote unsafe behaviors. Aviation safety regulations exist to protect passengers, and disregarding them can lead to serious consequences. As airlines and regulators continue to address passenger comfort, travelers must remember that safety should always come first. Finding alternative ways to rest comfortably on a flight is essential, but following proper seatbelt protocols remains non-negotiable.
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