Full Breakdown
Concerns Rise Over Viral Airplane Sleeping Position Trend
12/26/2025, 9:21:09 PM
The Trend and Its Implications
A new trend on TikTok, where passengers pull their feet onto their seats and secure their legs with a seat belt while sleeping on airplanes, has sparked significant debate regarding passenger safety and etiquette. This viral practice, which claims to enhance comfort during flights, has raised alarms among medical professionals and etiquette experts alike.
Health Risks Associated with the Trend
Medical experts have voiced serious concerns about the potential health risks associated with this sleeping position. Carole Lieberman, M.D., a psychiatrist specializing in mental health for airline passengers, warned that the position could increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). She stated, “This trend is very dangerous because it keeps the legs in a tightly compressed position,” emphasizing that DVT can lead to life-threatening pulmonary embolisms. Prolonged sitting during flights is already known to elevate the risk of blood clots, and this trend may exacerbate that danger. The Mayo Clinic supports this view, recommending measures such as wearing compression socks and moving legs regularly to promote circulation.
Reactions from Passengers and Flight Crews
The trend has elicited mixed reactions on social media. While some users have shared their experiences of attempting the position, others have reported negative interactions with flight attendants. One commenter noted, “I tried to do this and the flight attendant made me stop,” while another recalled being “yelled at by a flight attendant” for attempting the setup. Additionally, some passengers reported discomfort, with one video creator admitting that her legs fell asleep after trying the position.
Etiquette Considerations
From an etiquette standpoint, the practice has been criticized for conflicting with standard airplane decorum. Jacqueline Whitmore, an etiquette expert and former flight attendant, stated that placing feet on the seats in front is generally considered poor etiquette. She suggested that if passengers choose to remove their shoes, they should wear socks or slippers and cover their feet with a jacket or blanket, particularly if no one is seated next to them. Whitmore acknowledged that there may be limited circumstances where this practice could be more acceptable, especially on longer flights.
Official Responses from Airlines
Fox News Digital reached out to several airlines for comments regarding the trend, but specific responses from the airlines were not detailed in the sources. The lack of official airline guidance on this issue may leave passengers uncertain about the acceptability of this practice.
Conclusion
As the TikTok trend of sleeping with feet on airplane seats gains popularity, it brings with it significant health and etiquette concerns. Medical professionals caution against the potential risks of deep vein thrombosis, while etiquette experts highlight the social implications of such behavior. Passengers are advised to consider these factors before adopting this viral practice during their travels.
