Doctor Explains Why You Can’t Avoid Farting On Planes

If you've ever noticed that you're unusually gassy while on a plane, you're definitely not the only one.

Needing to fart when you’re cramped on a flight with hundreds of other passengers is, let’s face it, one of the most awkward situations to be in.

With the cabin warm, air circulating, and everyone breathing the same air for hours at a time, the last thing you want to do is let one slip and make everyone around you uncomfortable.

Farting on a plane is definitely a travel no-go Getty Stock

But that increase in flatulence isn’t entirely your fault – unless, of course, you went heavy on the Brussels sprouts right before takeoff.

Explaining why people tend to feel gassier in the air, TikTok's resident doctor, Dr. Karan Rajan, shared some insights on social media.

"When you fly, the cabin pressure decreases so the air inside your intestines increases by up to 30 percent more than usual," he explained.

"Since your colon has limited space and can only expand so much, a natural consequence is to release these fumes."

Even if you try to hold in that dreaded fart, chances are some gas will still escape, despite your best efforts.

This is also why airlines make sure that meals served on board are generally low in fiber and higher in carbs, as these foods are less likely to cause bloating or gas buildup.

People might feel more of an urge to fart while flying because of decreased cabin pressure Getty Stock

Dr. Rajan noted that some airlines even go the extra mile by installing charcoal filters in the air conditioning system to help “absorb your sulphurous fumes.”

In fact, a 2018 study suggested that having “charcoal-equipped HEPA filters” on board can noticeably improve air quality.

If you're worried about feeling gassy during a flight, Dr. Rajan also advised avoiding foods like dairy, garlic, onions, seeds, and certain kinds of bread before boarding.

He also recommended eating slowly to help reduce any air swallowed along with your food.

Dr. Rajan’s advice comes after an incident earlier this year when a passenger forced a plane to turn around after aiming a fart at someone during a disagreement.

The man got into an argument with another passenger over a reserved seat, eventually deciding to "let one rip" in the direction of the person he was upset with.

The situation escalated, leading to a dispute with other passengers.

In the end, the airline chose to turn the plane around, and the man was escorted off.

Lesson learned: don’t fart and fly, folks.