Chili served at airports raises concerns about inflight comfort

Nevertheless, United Airlines thought it was a good idea to offer chili at their club in Denver International Airport (DEN).

“The @united club at the @DENAirport used to have these bizarrely huge uncovered bowls of chili available as soon as you walked in,” tweeted Emily Witko (@witkoochocinco) on August 5, 2024.

Instances of flatulence have caused significant issues on flights before. Flatulence from goats once caused a Singapore Airlines aircraft to make an emergency landing. Similarly, hot cows caused issues for a Boeing 747 near Heathrow. A passenger's gastrointestinal issues led to a British Airways flight turning back to London. There was also the infamous Delta diarrhea flight.

“Someone had diarrhea on a delta flight from Atlanta to Barcelona forcing the plane to land early,” reported Ding News (@DingNewsCorp) on September 6, 2023.

While such incidents rarely reach the point of declaring an emergency, passing gas on planes happens frequently due to changes in air pressure causing increased gas production.

An average person passes gas ten times daily. This multiplies across passengers on long-haul flights without considering altitude changes.

The odor primarily results from sulfur compounds and is exacerbated in cabins with leather seats (traditionally first class). Fabric seat covers are more absorbent.

To mitigate this issue inflight, passengers are advised against consuming beans or fried foods before flying or while onboard. Cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts should also be avoided.

At Washington National Airport and elsewhere:

Consider taking Gas-X or Beano if prone to excessive gas production. Excusing oneself to the lavatory can help alleviate discomfort for fellow passengers; however, waits are common in economy class. If seated next to someone who passes gas, try ignoring it to prevent escalating tensions within the confined space of an aircraft cabin.