Neurologists dismiss claims suggesting in-flight entertainment screens emit EMF, need to wear cap on planes: ‘These exploit fear, not science’

Neurologists dismiss claims suggesting in-flight entertainment screens emit EMF, need to wear cap on planes: ‘These exploit fear, not science’

On a flight, should you wear a cap to protect yourself against EMF (or electromagnetic field) exposure from the in-flight entertainment screen attached behind your headrest? While social media seems to believe it, renowned neurologists quash the claim, calling it scaremongering that creates “unnecessary panic”. “As a neurologist who deals with real brain disorders every day, I want to clarify a few important scientific facts because many people reading this may get unnecessarily scared. Aircraft seat screens do NOT emit harmful EMF,” said consultant neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad.

According to Dr Kumar, the small entertainment screens in aeroplanes emit very low-power radiofrequency signals, similar to or lower than those of a mobile phone on standby, a WiFi router across the room, Bluetooth earphones, or car infotainment systems. “These screens are regulated, tested, and designed to minimise exposure since they are just inches away from passengers. There is no scientific evidence showing that these low levels of EMF cause brain inflammation, fatigue, or neurological damage. The intensity is much lower than what you encounter daily from your phone, home Wi-Fi router, or even walking near a power line,” added Dr Prashant Makhija, consultant neurologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central.

Stressing that the power output is far below international safety limits (FCC, ICNIRP), Dr Kumar said, “There is no evidence these screens cause brain inflammation, fatigue, or cognitive problems. The main cause of post-flight fatigue is not EMF”. “Well-established causes include low cabin humidity (which causes dehydration), Mild hypoxia (lower oxygen pressure), sleep disruption, long sitting (that causes muscle stiffness), time-zone shift (resulting in true jet lag), and noise + vibration (which increase stress hormones),” said Dr Kumar, adding that none of these have anything to do with EMF.

In simple words, reduced movement affects circulation, which can lead to fatigue and mild headaches. It’s jet lag, dehydration, and poor sleep quality, not EMF, said Dr Makhija.

EMF-blocking hats have no proven medical benefit. “Zero peer-reviewed studies show that wearing EMF-blocking hats reduces inflammation, prevents fatigue, improves brain function, or protects against radiation. If anything, these exploit fear, not science,” described Dr Kumar.

If someone feels better using such hats or caps, Dr Makhija said it’s often because they feel more in control. This is known as the placebo effect, not because the hat is shielding the brain from harmful radiation, said Dr Makhija.

If aeroplane EMF were dangerous, crew would be the first affected, reasoned Dr Kumar, considering pilots and cabin crew spend thousands of hours per year in the aircraft environment. “Large studies show no increase in neurological or cognitive diseases due to EMF exposure,” said Dr Kumar.

So, what should passengers do to avoid fatigue, headaches, or brain fog after flying?
A few simple habits are much more effective than any EMF-blocking accessory, said Dr Makhija:

*Hydrate well before and during the flight.
*Avoid heavy meals and alcohol.
*Try to adjust your sleep schedule to match the destination if crossing time zones.
*Move or stretch every 1–2 hours to improve circulation.
*Use an eye mask or neck pillow for better sleep.

Your brain responds well to these basics, much more than to unfounded fears about EMF, said Dr Makhija.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.