Allergies in the cockpit: an underestimated risk
Hundreds of thousands of people in Central Europe suffer seasonally from Pollen-related allergiesespecially against birch, grass and herb pollen. For many professionals, this simply means an increased level of discomfort. However, for pilots - whether private or commercial - the symptoms can be safety-relevant:
- Itchy or burning eyes make it difficult to see and react
- Sneezing fits during critical flight phases can lead to disorientation
- Runny nose or breathing difficulties disturb the concentration
- Tiredness and drowsiness impair the ability to react and make decisions
These symptoms often occur unexpectedly - and especially in the Take-off or landing phase fractions of a second can be decisive.
Medication: Yes - but with the utmost caution
The good news is that hay fever can now be treated quite well with medication. Modern antihistamines of the second generation such as loratadine, cetirizine or fexofenadine are regarded as non-sedatingThis means with little or no influence on the reaction speed. However, caution is also required here:
- Individual reactions vary: What is harmless for one person can lead to a lack of concentration or delayed perception for another
- Interactions with other medications (e.g. painkillers or tranquillisers) cannot be ruled out
- Delayed side effects may only become apparent after several hours
That is why the golden rule is: Test medication on the ground - not in flight!
Medical advice: test first, then fly
If you suffer from seasonal allergies as a pilot, you should Coordinate with a doctor trained in aviation medicine in good time before the start of the pollen season. They can assess which preparations are suitable for use in the cockpit. In addition to antihistamines Nasal sprays containing cortisone, anti-allergic eye drops or locally acting treatments which have a more targeted and less risky effect - but usually require a prescription.
Additionally important:
- Read the package leaflet carefully: Warnings for car drivers also apply to pilots
- Advise the pharmacist of your fitness to fly
- No spontaneous medication changes during the flight season
Pollen check: keep an eye on the weather and surroundings
In addition to drug treatment, it is also worth taking a look at Regional pollen count forecastse.g. via the German Pollen Information Service Network (PID) or specialised weather apps. After Rain showers the air is usually low in pollen - a suitable time for planned flights.
Take-aways for pilots with hay fever:
- ✅ Check the pollen count report
- ✅ Testing the compatibility of medicines on the ground
- ✅ Seek medical advice In case of uncertainty or side effects
- ✅ Clear personal responsibility: If in doubt about the suitability Postpone flight
- ❌ No experimenting with new medication immediately before the flight
Conclusion: safety first - even with seasonal allergies
Hay fever is not a flight ban per se - but it is a risk factor if symptoms are underestimated or medication is taken without due consideration. Those who are prepared, tolerate their medication well and prefer the ground to the cockpit when in doubt are acting responsibly - towards themselves, their passengers and the airspace.
Source references:
Staysafe.aero