Air travel: To fly or not to fly

"The desire to fly is an idea handed down to us by our ancestors who, in their grueling travels across trackless lands in prehistoric times, looked enviously on the birds soaring freely through space, at full speed, above all obstacles, on the infinite highway of the air."                                                            -Wilbur Wright

The aviator is correct! Probably this 'constructive envy' made the Wright brothers invent the first mechanical bird that flew.... the predecessor of the modern aircraft.

Air travel is the quickest means of transportation- and today, with airlines targeting the 'common man' by reducing airfares, it certainly is an exciting and attractive travel prospect.

Nevertheless, a word of caution! It is no flight of fancy that illness or medical conditions may be exacerbated during flights. So, before you book your flight tickets, review the compatibility of your (or companion's) health with air travel. Just following a few precautions may save you an uncomfortable flight.

Here's an overview of some aviation- related medical conditions and advice for commercial air travelers. Always consult your physician if you have a health condition and want to fly. Be sure to carry all required medication and other accessories to help you enjoy a pleasant flight.