Aircraft cabins are notoriously cold. Cabin temperature typically hovers around 71 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit to counteract the freezing atmospheric conditions that impact the cabin as the plane ascends. While 71 to 75 degrees doesn’t seem that cold on paper, it’s another thing to experience, as even those who prefer the cold can feel frigid on an airplane.
There is a practical reason why airlines keep the air inside cabins cool and crisp; it’s a calculated decision to keep passengers comfortable while preserving their health.
Why It’s Safer to Have a Cold Aircraft
One major reason to have a colder cabin is dehydration. Because the air at cruising altitude is drier, it’s easier for passengers to become dehydrated, which can produce headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps and weakness. A cool cabin temperature helps to mitigate this effect, minimizing moisture loss to limit your risk.
Changes in air pressure, lower oxygen levels and extended sitting are all potential conditions in cabins that can increase the likelihood of passengers fainting. Being hot results in blood vessel dilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure, which in turn further increases the risk of fainting. Cooler temperatures are essential to reducing the frequency of these types of health emergencies as well as other health risks.
A colder cabin can potentially lower the risk of passengers contracting an illness on a flight. By minimizing the amount of moisture in the air and removing microorganisms using a robust air conditioning system, cooler temperatures can reduce the spread of germs and bacteria that would be more active in a warmer cabin.
Aside from protecting passenger and crew health, a cold cabin also has practical uses. For instance, people tend to be more alert and aware in colder temperatures, which can enable them to better heed safety instructions and be more responsive in emergency situations.
Aircraft systems also operate more efficiently in colder conditions. Cool air is essential for avionic cooling systems to dissipate heat and maintain an optimal cabin and engine temperature, which means that maintaining a cooler temperature can enhance the system’s overall effectiveness and longevity.
How Can In-Cabin Technology Help Keep the Air Cabin Cold?
Materials and Insulation: Technological advancements in materials and insulation contribute to better temperature control within the aircraft. From high-tech fabrics to improved insulation materials, these innovations play a role in minimizing heat transfer and ensuring that the cabin remains cool even in varying external conditions.
Advanced Air Conditioning Systems: Aircraft are equipped with state-of-the-art air conditioning systems that have been designed to effectively regulate airflow, providing a reliably consistent and comfortable cabin temperature.
Zone-Based Climate Control: With zone-based climate control, passengers can now customize the temperature in their immediate area, either by using the dials above them or with a press of a button on their seat’s interface. Zoning allows them to stay cool without being uncomfortably cold, creating a more pleasant flying experience for everyone.
Thermal Imaging and Monitoring: Some aircrafts are able to assess the cabin environment in real time with thermal imaging and monitoring systems. This technology helps identify areas that may be prone to temperature variations, allowing for prompt adjustments to maintain a consistently cool cabin.
Outfit Your Aircraft With State-of-the-Art IFE Technology
With the continuous evolution of cabin technology, airlines are always seeking the perfect balance between optimal performance and passenger comfort. Our team has been at the forefront of balancing safety, comfort and functionality for decades. At Rosen Aviation, we have designing personalized, cutting-edge in-flight technology for over 40 years, pushing the industry forward by integrating the latest tech into airline cabins to maximize passenger comfort and convenience.
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