German researchers have completed a study recommending that passengers avoid drinking alcohol on flights due to increased health risks. The combination of alcohol consumption, sleep, and the low oxygen concentration at high altitudes was found to have negative effects on the body. These effects included reduced blood oxygen saturation, increased heart rate, and poor sleep quality. The risks were found to be even greater for older individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
A common practice on long-haul flights is drinking alcohol before falling asleep, however, this practice can be harmful to even young and healthy passengers. The study revealed that alcohol consumption combined with sleep and low oxygen levels challenges the cardiovascular system and extends periods of low oxygen in the blood, known as hypoxaemia.
German researchers recommended that airlines restrict alcohol consumption on flights due to the negative effects it can have on passengers. The study showed that inflight sleep already decreases blood oxygen saturation due to reduced atmospheric pressure in airplane cabins. Adding alcohol consumption to the mix resulted in further decreases in blood oxygen saturation, increased heart rate, and reduced deep sleep.
The study also found that even young and healthy participants experienced clinically relevant desaturations and heart rate increases during sleep when alcohol was involved. The study warned that higher doses of alcohol could amplify these effects and increase the risk of health complications and medical emergencies during flights. This is especially concerning for older individuals and those with existing medical conditions. As a result, it is recommended that passengers avoid alcohol while flying to ensure their health and safety.