Wanderlust or wooziness

But you’re not just navigating Jack Frost’s playground; you’re playing in-flight medic to passengers experiencing the notorious upheaval of their stomachs: motion sickness.

Decoding the midair malaise

Airsickness could be coined the “turmoil of the tummy.” It’s what happens when your passenger’s eyes and inner ear play tug-of-war with their stomach caught in the middle. This joust results in a passenger looking greener than the Grinch on Christmas Eve.

Who’s on the naughty (sick) list?

Certain folks aboard your sleigh...er...airplane are more likely to break into an impromptu waltz of wooziness:
Flight novices: First-timers boarding the sky-bound holiday express? Their bellies might be singing a slightly more nervous tune.
Tiny tots: Kids aged 2 through 12 are motion sickness magnets.
Car-sick Carl: If he’s nauseated reading in a car, airborne adventures might not be smooth.
Nervous Nellies: Passengers singing, “I believe I can fly,” with less gusto and more trepidation.

How passengers can prep

Seating strategy: Sitting wing adjacent (or closest to the center of gravity) is the VIP section against airsickness. It’s the Goldilocks zone.
Eyes on the prize: Staring at the horizon can be a game-changer. Plus, it’s scenic.
Dress for (airborne) success: Pack the bulky Santa sweaters. Dress less to impress, more lightweight and breathable.
Snack smart: Avoid feasting like Father Christmas pre-flight. Embrace light bites.
Trust the gingerbread man: A bite of ginger, peppermint candy, or over-the-counter remedies can be the co-pilot for their stomach.
Breathe, believe, be merry: Deep, purposeful breaths bring joy and bid adieu to those unwelcome nausea vibes.

Santa's sack of tricks

Ho, ho, ho! As the pilot in command, your bag isn’t filled with toys but strategies:
Captain’s calm chat: Preflight pep talks go a long way. “Expect turbulence and embrace the rollercoaster.”
Santa’s route: Just as Santa avoids stormy patches, use your meteorological insights to skirt turbulence.
Deck the halls (cockpit): Fresh air works wonders, almost like holiday magic. Open those vents.
Smooth sleighing: Your maneuvers should be as smooth as that glass of eggnog waiting post-flight.
Jingle all the way: A touch of humor and regular communication can be as warming as mulled wine. Keep the chatter light, informative, and reassuring.
Stock the stockings: Have ready airsickness bags, wet wipes, and a ginger candy or two to conquer queasiness.

Wrapping it up

Winter flights during the festive season are both a challenge and a charm. With Jack Frost nipping at the leading edge of your wings and passengers possibly combating their insides, the journey can be an adventure. Yet, with the right blend of preparation, humor, and wisdom, each flight can be as magical as the tales spun around Christmas fires. Here’s to soaring spirits and stable stomachs.

[email protected]

airsafetyinstitute.org