How do viruses spread on airplanes like those on United Airlines?

Respiratory viruses primarily spread through the air and close contact, not typically from surfaces like tray tables. However, stomach bugs can survive on surfaces.

What is the best seat to avoid getting sick on a plane?

A window seat is recommended as it offers fewer people brushing past and less exposure to aisle traffic.

What are the best practices for staying healthy during holiday travel on planes?

Frequent hand washing and sanitizing, avoiding touching your face, and using overhead air vents can help reduce illness risk.

Home / Health / Holiday Flights: Avoid Germs on Planes

Holiday Flights: Avoid Germs on Planes

13 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Respiratory viruses spread through air, not surfaces, on planes.
Stomach bugs are hardy and can survive on surfaces for days.
Window seats offer less exposure to aisle traffic and close contacts.

As millions prepare for holiday travel, concerns grow over declining air travel manners and health risks. Experts emphasize that while respiratory viruses like flu and COVID-19 primarily spread through the air, hardy stomach bugs can survive on surfaces for days.

High-touch areas on planes, such as tray tables and bathrooms, pose a greater risk for transmission of intestinal infections. Dr. Neha Pathak suggests that the risk from surfaces might be higher for 'stomach bugs' than for airborne viruses.

To mitigate risks, Pathak recommends choosing a window seat to limit contact with others and frequent hand washing and sanitizing. Avoiding touching one's face, especially the mouth and nose, is also a critical step in preventing illness during crowded holiday flights.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.