Archive · 28 Dec 2025
Viral Airplane Sleeping Trend Sparks Safety Concerns
A new trend on TikTok shows people trying to sleep on airplanes by sitting cross-legged and strapping the seat belt around their legs instead of their waist.
Some people say it helps them sleep better, but others, including flight attendants and doctors, say it's not safe or polite.
Doctors warn that it can cause problems with blood flow and even lead to dangerous blood clots.
Flight attendants often ask passengers to stop doing it because it can make other people uncomfortable and is not very clean.
Experts suggest stretching, moving around, and staying hydrated instead to make long flights more comfortable.
A viral TikTok trend involves passengers sitting cross-legged and strapping the seat belt around their legs for better sleep on airplanes.
Some passengers claim it relieves lower-back strain and makes sleeping upright more comfortable.
Flight attendants often ask passengers to stop the practice, and some report being yelled at for trying it.
Medical experts warn that the position can restrict circulation and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms.
Etiquette experts disapprove due to hygiene concerns and the inconsiderate nature of placing feet on seats.
- Who
- Passengers, flight attendants, and medical experts.
- What
- A viral TikTok trend involving a specific sleeping position on airplanes.
- When
- Currently trending online.
- Where
- On airplanes and discussed on social media platforms like TikTok.
- Why
- Passengers claim it helps with comfort, but experts warn of health and etiquette issues.
- Trend Description
- Passengers sitting cross-legged or tucking feet onto the seat, fastening the seat belt around their legs.
- Claimed Benefit
- Relieves lower-back strain and makes sleeping upright more comfortable.
- Reported Issues
- Numbness, tingling, digestive discomfort, and circulation restriction.
- Medical Warning
- Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms.
- Etiquette Concerns
- Placing feet on seats is considered inconsiderate and unhygienic.
- Recommended Alternatives
- Stretching, moving legs regularly, staying hydrated, and wearing compression socks.
- Flight Crew Response
- Flight attendants often ask passengers to stop the practice.