Going flying? Dress for success!
Here in Alaska, we depend on airplanes to get around! Small planes. Big planes. Float planes–even ski planes. Above, I caught a ride with Homer Air from Seldovia to Anchorage. It wasn’t glamorous, but together, we got the job done! And I was glad I “dressed for success”!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Several readers pointed out that synthetic materials (fleece, neoprene, etc.) are problematic if there’s a fire on an aircraft (ie–they melt to your skin=BAD). Accordingly, many rural flyers opt for sturdy cotton and leather outwear. The choice is yours–but it’s important to be MINDFUL of what you’re wearing and what the weather’s like where you’re headed!!
While it’s rare, pilots occasionally must make unplanned detours and/or landings. Perhaps there’s fog where you’re trying to land. Or, there might be a problem with the plane. Maybe the winds require your pilot to stop and get extra fuel.
Whatever the reason–as a passenger you need to be reasonably prepared in case of a delay or detour.
For example: if you’re going in a float plane to a remote location, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes. Leave the high heels and sandals at the hotel. I have two pairs of Keen shoes. They’re lightweight and waterproof.Â
Or, if you’re going sightseeing up to a glacier, be prepared in case you need to stay a little longer. Many of the glacier operators have warming tents. Still, it’s a good idea to have a hat and a jacket–just in case. Ex Officio has a couple of new jackets: “Wind Logic” and “Storm Logic” . Check ‘em out.
We all know cotton is comfortable. Hoodies, jeans, shirts and such. Alaska adventurers eschew cotton in favor of lightweight layers of fleece. Synthetic fabrics dry quickly when wet and provide some loft to help you get warm quickly. Check this out from REI.
Remember–aviation safety is everybody’s business! The Federal Aviation Administration and the Medallion Foundation have developed a “circle of safety” list for travelers. Check it out. Talk to your pilot. Learn more.
experience
Scott,
For flying, cotton clothing is recommended in case of a fiery crash. Synthetics will melt into your skin, causing greater damage.
Margaret
Federal employees in AK are required to wear non-synthetic clothing (wool and cotton) and over-the-ankle leather boots on non-scheduled fixed-wing flights (charters etc.). Helicopter requirements are even more stringent: Nomex jumpsuits, helmets, non-flammable gloves, and leather boots. While we all avoid cotton in the backcountry, your readers should know that nylon, polyester, polypro, rubber (XtraTufs) etc. will melt right into your skin in a fire. If the crash doesn’t kill you, third degree burns will.
I find it strange that the FAA is apparently telling the flying public one thing while OAS is teaching us another in our required flight safety training. The laws of physics do not discriminate between the two populations. I try to wear sturdy footwear and cotton or wool clothing on all flights (even scheduled service) while bringing more appropriate backcountry gear in my luggage because it would be stupid to be wearing nylon shorts, flip flops, or a fleece shirt in a crash.
History is the solid proof that anything can not save you in crash, Whether you are wearing cotton cloth or synthetic.