Excited for your sun-filled vacation, you’ve done all the prep and are now seated on the aircraft, but to your surprise, it feels more like the arctic than the aisle to paradise. If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so chilly when flying to a hot destination, there’s actually a logical explanation behind the frosty cabin temperatures. Yes, it’s cold, but there’s a good reason for it.
Vanessa Settimi, a seasoned flight attendant with Swoop Airlines, shared with Reader’s Digest the behind-the-scenes details on aircraft climate control. She said, “Temperature in the cabin is controlled by the pilots.” Despite passenger requests for warmer settings, the cockpit typically opts to maintain cooler conditions. Curious about the typical temperature range? Aircraft cabins are generally kept between 22°C and 24°C, reported AeroTime Hub. This range might not sound too bad, but it can feel quite chilly as passengers are seated and inactive for long periods.
The cooler temperatures actually serve several purposes. According to Vanessa, keeping the cabin on the cooler side helps alleviate symptoms of travel sickness, assists in coping with turbulence, and reduces the likelihood of fainting, particularly in those susceptible to it. So, while it might be tempting to wander the aisles or perform some in-seat exercises to stay warm, a simpler solution might just be to dress in additional layers to combat the chill.
Vanessa also offers a piece of practical advice for flyers: avoid boarding in typical tropical attire like shorts and flip-flops. The chill factor is real!
She humorously remarks, “Now this might just be the flight attendant in me, but you will never catch me flying as a traveler in sandals and a tank top!”
Additionally, a more technical rationale provided by Rosen Aviation suggests that the lower temperatures are intended to counterbalance the frigid atmospheric conditions encountered as the aircraft climbs higher into the sky. While it’s an amalgam of science and precaution, the exact reasoning might vary.
Regardless of the scientific specifics, it’s wise to come prepared. Remember to pack a hoodie, jumper, or a few extra layers when you fly. You can always switch into your vacation gear once you land and start enjoying the warmer climate on the other side.