Dressing for a long flight can be tricky. You want to be comfortable, have an outfit that isn’t too warm or too cold, and maybe even look stylish. But according to aviation expert Christine Negroni, there are some clothing choices you should avoid when boarding a plane—and leggings are at the top of the list.
Negroni, a New York Times bestselling author and aviation expert, revealed why leggings are not a good choice for air travel. In an interview with IGV, she explained that leggings, made from synthetic materials, can be dangerous in the event of an emergency. “Most air accidents are survivable, but many involve fire,” Negroni said. “Leggings are made of synthetic materials, and when these chemically produced fibers get hot, they can melt and bond to the skin, causing serious injuries or scarring.”
What you wear when boarding a plane is surprisingly important, as pointed out by some experts. Credit: Alamy
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also recommended in 1999 that clothing made from natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, leather, and denim, are safer to wear in the event of a fire or other emergency. Synthetic materials like those in leggings could increase the risk of severe injury during an evacuation.
Negroni advises opting for clothing that is both practical and safe. “In case of an emergency evacuation, the ground outside the plane could be cold, wet, icy, hot, or covered in metal, fuel, or airplane debris,” she said. She also recommends wearing comfortable flats with a substantial sole, which are easy to remove, especially if you need to exit the plane quickly.
Aviation expert Christine Negroni has explained why you should never wear leggings on a plane. Credit: @christinenegroni/Instagram
While it’s not explicitly stated in the FAA’s guidelines, Negroni’s advice suggests that choosing the right attire could make a critical difference in your safety. So next time you pack for a flight, consider avoiding leggings and opting for clothing that offers both comfort and protection.
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