If you have been SCUBA diving, what is the recommended waiting time before flying at cabin altitudes up to 8,000 feet?

After SCUBA diving, it is advised to wait before flying to allow the body to eliminate excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive. The recommended waiting time of 12 to 24 hours is based on the need to avoid decompression sickness, which can occur if a diver ascends too quickly in altitude after exposure to increased atmospheric pressure underwater.

Flying at altitudes up to 8,000 feet can pose a risk since the lower atmospheric pressure could lead to nitrogen bubbles forming in the body, particularly if a diver has not allowed sufficient time for this gas to be expelled naturally. The 12 to 24-hour guideline helps ensure that the body has adequately processed and removed nitrogen, thereby minimizing the risk of this potentially serious condition.

In contrast, waiting shorter periods, such as 6 to 12 hours, may not provide adequate time for many divers, particularly those who have made deep or multiple dives, to safely transition to flying. Waiting longer than 24 hours, while safer, is typically unnecessary for the majority of recreational diving activities unless there are unique circumstances or deep diving involved.