In-Flight Comfort

We want to make sure you are safe and comfortable during your V Australia flights. Your safety and well being is our primary concern.

During your flight please ensure your seat belt is fastened anytime the seatbelt sign is illuminated, and whenever you are in your seat, just in case we do come across any unexpected turbulence. If you do wish to have a stretch or go for a walk around the cabin, please ensure that the seat belt sign is off. Always drink plenty of water, juice or soft drinks on your flights, as it can be pretty dehydrating up there in the air! Drink alcohol, coffee or tea in moderation as they are diuretics and cause the body to dehydrate.

Also we propose that you:

• Occasionally move around the cabin (only if the seatbelt sign is not illuminated).
• Gently bend your neck down towards each shoulder.
• Move your shoulders upward, and then lower slowly.
• Don't cross your legs.
• Move or wriggle your toes and feet.
• Flex and rotate your ankles whilst seated.

If you experience pain or discomfort when doing any of the above exercises we recommend you stop immediately.

Blocked ears and popping

During your flight you may feel some small discomfort with your ears ‘popping’ as the cabin pressure adjusts to correct altitude during ascent (take-off) and descent (landing). To help alleviate this, we suggest you chew some gum or suck on a sweet.

As cabin service is not available during take-off or landing, please ensure that you have your own supply of chewing gum or sweets with you. For information on helping young children and infants, please refer to our Travelling with Infants page.

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

DVT is blood clotting in a major vein, most commonly in the legs or lower body, where blood flow has been slowed. Medical practitioners advise that certain people may be more susceptible to developing DVT.

These include:

• People who are immobile for periods of time.
• A personal or family history of DVT.
• People with certain blood disorders.
• Persons who have recently undergone major surgery.
• Smokers.
• People with heart disease.
• Pregnant women.
• The elderly.
• People suffering from dehydration.

To alleviate any circulatory issues we suggest you:

• Drink plenty of water and other fluids during and after the flight.
• Limit alcohol, tea and coffee.
• Take regular walks around the aircraft when the seat belt sign is off.
• Stretch, move your arms and legs at regular intervals.
• Avoid crossing your legs when seated.
• Massage your calves and thighs.
• Regularly move your ankles by circling and gently shaking your feet.

If you experience abnormal swelling, tenderness or pain after your flight we strongly recommend you see your doctor.

This is not a comprehensive list. If you have any doubts about your particular health risks, you should talk to your medical practitioner.