A little forward planning can make your journey safer and more comfortable. Here is all you need to know about health risks, equipment and luggage regulations.

Looking after your health

There is no scientific evidence to link aircraft air conditioning systems with the spread of disease. Infectious diseases like common colds are likely to be spread simply by sitting or standing near an infected person before, during or after a flight. Most aircraft are fitted with air filters and cabin air within them is changed every three to seven minutes.

Air in the cabin environment is fine for most passengers. But if you have severe lung disease you should get advice from your GP or the airline's medical service, especially before a long-distance flight.

Using electronic equipment

Research suggests the onboard use of mobile phones, and other portable electronic equipment like computer games, may interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems. For safety reasons please switch off mobile phones during the entire flight and don't use other portable electronic equipment during take-off or landing.