Navigating Air Travel with Food Allergies

The upcoming holiday season often leads to increased air travel as families embark on trips both domestically and internationally. However, for individuals with severe food allergies, flying can present distinct challenges.

According to a comprehensive survey conducted in 2024, which included over 4,700 participants with food allergies and their caregivers, a staggering 98% reported experiencing heightened anxiety related to air travel due to food allergy concerns. Despite these worries, research indicates that allergic reactions during flights are quite rare.

Understanding the Risks

A recent analysis of multiple studies found that approximately seven allergic reactions occur per 10 million airline passengers. Even more concerning cases, such as those requiring emergency adrenaline injection, are even less common, with about eight instances per 100 million passengers. In fact, the likelihood of experiencing an allergic reaction in-flight is lower than in everyday circumstances.

One common source of anxiety for travelers with food allergies is the fear of airborne food particles causing a reaction. However, studies have shown that food proteins typically do not become airborne. In the unlikely event that they do, advanced air filtration systems on commercial aircraft are designed to quickly eliminate any airborne allergens.

Research involving peanuts, a common allergen, indicates that peanut proteins are only detectable in minimal quantities and for brief periods near the source. No severe allergic reactions have been reported from individuals consuming peanuts in confined spaces.

Practical Strategies for Safety

For travelers at risk of anaphylaxis, it is crucial to take specific precautions:

• Keep adrenaline auto-injectors, such as EpiPens, in your carry-on luggage rather than checked bags. Store them where they are easily accessible during the flight.
• Prepare a detailed travel plan and an anaphylaxis action plan, signed by a healthcare professional, outlining your allergy status and emergency procedures.
• Inform the flight crew of your food allergies and make them aware of the location of your adrenaline and action plan, especially if traveling alone.

For those with food allergies in general, consider the following recommendations:

• Notify your airline of your food allergies when booking your flight and inquire about their food policies.
• Bring allergy-safe snacks from home, as airlines may not provide allergen-free options.
• Wipe down your seating area and tray table with sanitizing wipes upon boarding to minimize exposure to allergens.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before eating, as this is more effective than using hand sanitizer alone.
• Consider seating arrangements carefully, placing allergic individuals away from areas where food is served.
• If you suspect an allergic reaction, immediately inform the flight crew for assistance.

Community Support and Airline Responsibility

Passengers can also contribute to a safer environment by cleaning their surroundings before leaving the aircraft and being vigilant about food sharing. Airlines should maintain clear, accessible policies regarding food allergies and consistently apply them, including offering early boarding for those who need it.

For additional resources on traveling with food allergies, the organization Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia provides a dedicated Food Allergy Travel Hub that offers guidance and support for travelers.