Flying with a cold

[neil_1821]

I know they recommend not to fly while having a cold due to pressure differences, but do you think it's acceptable to go flying in a little 152 around 2000ft with a cold?

I have been thinking no but my dad seems to keep telling me to go flying because the weathers so nice.

Bit uncertain if i should or not

[27mm]

Hi Neil - I'm sure there's a thread on this topic somewhere, but in the meantime, don't even think about it. Wait until all your cold symtoms have disappeared before going flying, or you risk needless possible damage and pain and discomfort. Oh, and never bow to peer pressure on this, even if it's your Dad!

[neil_1821]

thanks for the advice, i had a feeling it might be best to wait until they clear up, it does get somewhat annoying after a while though as you can have colds for a fair few weeks.

[gatbusdriver]

You will get higher rates of descent in a C-152 than the Boeing/Airbus. As these will descend at somewhere around 500fpm.

I tried flying once with a cold. Ended up having to climb again, then descend very slowly while holding.

Don't do it.

[gingernut]

As Gatbus states, the rate of pressure change during low level flight in a light aircraft are great. So avoid flying for now.

[neil_1821]

Thanks for the advice, my main thoughts were about my ear drums, i'm off to a concert tonight but taking ear plugs in case it's a bit loud. You know how these rock n roll things are

[londonmet]

A 757 cabin descends at a max of 300 fpm. It will climb at a max of 500 fpm.