Dining on a Plane Still Comes with Risks. Here’s How to Navigate It.

In April, as I boarded a flight at the pandemic's onset to reunite with my family in California, I went through about 14 sanitizing wipes, scrubbing every inch of my seat, the windows, and even the ceiling. I observed in horror and bemusement, behind my double-masks, as every passenger around me mirrored my actions. The absurdity was only eclipsed by the realization that this might become my travel routine for the foreseeable future.

Fast forward 18 months, and during a morning flight, I lowered my mask with reckless abandon to munch on the snack just handed to me. Looking around, I noticed that everyone else had their masks similarly resting beneath their chins, munching on the disappointing nut and seed bars provided by the crew. I hadn't even thought to bring a wet wipe.

Perhaps we've all grown a bit too relaxed. According to the Wall Street Journal, a recent study from the University of Greenwich in London found a '59% higher risk of viral transmission during a one-hour meal service on a 12-hour flight compared to remaining fully masked throughout.' I’m no expert, but that’s a significant risk for the minimal benefit of an often subpar in-flight meal. While our understanding of COVID-19 has evolved since those early days when flying felt perilous, and effective vaccines offer considerable protection, removing masks in the cramped quarters of an airplane—despite the constant influx of fresh, filtered air—is still risky, something I clearly overlooked while indulging in one of the driest snack bars imaginable.

At the pandemic's start, airlines focused on keeping masks on passengers by reducing or eliminating food service. However, airline meals are now definitely back on tray tables. While it’s true that planes have advanced air filtration systems—one particularly cheerful flight attendant mentioned that our cabin air gets completely refreshed every three minutes—it's crucial to wear a mask for as much of your flight as you can manage.

Naturally, the solution isn’t simply to avoid eating for 12 hours. The primary concern, as highlighted by the study's researchers—and something that should be obvious by now—stems from many passengers removing their masks at the same time. Their recommendation for airlines: stagger meal times, so groups of passengers can eat while others keep their masks on. However, airlines have been slow to adapt to public health advice, especially if it risks upsetting some of the delicate adults who purchase tickets. So, don’t expect any changes to meal service protocols anytime soon.

My advice for everyone: Wait a bit longer to enjoy your snacks, sip your coffee, or peel back the plastic on that sad tray of mashed potatoes and boeuf bourguignon. It may not be ideal with those around you unmasked, but keeping your mask on while others eat adds an extra layer of safety. Plus, just think how much more enjoyable that airplane meal will be 20 minutes after everyone else has finished, knowing you’re among the few savoring the fresh cabin air—mask off.