Airline Warns Against T-shirts on Planes: Safety & What to Wear

Passengers preparing for air travel may want to reconsider their clothing choices, according to recent advice from airline personnel. While comfort is often a priority, a flight attendant with American Airlines is urging travelers to avoid wearing t-shirts on flights, citing potential safety concerns.

Andrea Fischbach, a member of the American Airlines cabin crew, explained the reasoning behind this recommendation in interviews. Her advice stems from the potential need to evacuate via emergency slides. Emergency slides are not fun to go down and hurt – a lot – and it’s not a smooth landing once you reach the end of the slide, Fischbach stated, as reported by multiple news outlets. The friction from sliding on these inflatable evacuation routes can be significantly increased by wearing clothing that exposes skin.

The core issue is protection. Fischbach emphasizes that the more you cover the surface of your skin, the more protection for your largest organ. In an emergency evacuation, the slide’s surface can cause abrasions and injuries and having more skin covered can mitigate the severity of these potential wounds. This advice echoes a personal rule Fischbach followed throughout her own travels, instilled by her mother.

This isn’t the only clothing consideration for air travel. Fischbach also advises against wearing tight-fitting clothing, high heels, and excessive jewelry or accessories. These items can potentially cause delays at airport security checkpoints, creating inconvenience for everyone involved. The goal is to streamline the boarding process and minimize potential disruptions.

The concern over clothing and air travel isn’t limited to emergency evacuations. Other airlines have also weighed in on the topic, though with different focuses. Ryanair previously urged passengers to avoid wearing jeans on flights, though the airline did not initially provide a specific explanation. Dr. Hugh Pabarue, speaking to the Huffington Post, suggested that the restrictive nature of skinny jeans could increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long-haul flights. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, typically in the legs. Prolonged sitting, especially in a confined space, can contribute to this risk.

Beyond DVT, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also offers guidance on appropriate airport attire. Experts suggest avoiding bulky clothing, hoodies, and items with a lot of metal, as these can trigger additional security screenings. T-shirts with potentially offensive or politically charged slogans could also lead to further questioning by security personnel. The TSA’s priority is maintaining security, and clothing choices can sometimes impact that process.

The advice from Fischbach and other travel professionals highlights the importance of considering practicality and safety when choosing an outfit for a flight. While comfort is important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of preparedness. Choosing clothing that provides some protection in the event of an emergency, and that won’t cause delays at security, can contribute to a smoother and safer travel experience.

It’s important to note that these recommendations are based on potential risks and are not mandates. Passengers are not prohibited from wearing t-shirts or jeans, but being aware of the potential downsides can help individuals make informed decisions about their travel attire. The focus remains on passenger safety and a streamlined travel process.

While the risk of needing to use an emergency slide is statistically low, preparation is key. Understanding the potential hazards and taking simple precautions, like choosing appropriate clothing, can make a significant difference in the event of an unexpected situation. This advice underscores the idea that a little forethought can go a long way in ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.