Time to Fly
Definition
Time to fly is the recommended surface interval a diver should observe before boarding a plane to avoid decompression sickness.
More on Time to Fly
After diving, it’s essential to wait before flying to allow nitrogen to off-gas from body tissues. Flying too soon after diving increases the risk of decompression sickness due to lower cabin pressure at altitude. General guidelines from diving agencies recommend a minimum of 12 hours after a single no-decompression dive and 18–24 hours after multiple or decompression dives. Dive computers often calculate this automatically, and divers should err on the side of caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lower air pressure in aircraft cabins can trigger bubble formation in your tissues after diving.
12 hours after a single no-decompression dive; 18–24 hours after multiple or deco dives.
Yes. Most show a countdown or alert you when you're cleared to fly.
You should wait at least 18–24 hours. The deeper the dive, the longer the recommended interval.
You risk decompression sickness—symptoms can include joint pain, dizziness, or more severe issues.