How long is the recommended waiting period after scuba diving before flying?

The recommended waiting period after scuba diving before flying is 24 hours. This guideline is crucial for preventing decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," which can occur if a diver ascends to altitude too soon after diving. When underwater, divers are exposed to increased pressure, which allows more nitrogen to dissolve into their bloodstream. If a diver ascends to altitude too quickly after diving, the decreased pressure can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the body, leading to serious health complications.

The 24-hour rule provides a sufficient amount of time for nitrogen levels in the body to decrease to safer levels, thus reducing the risk of suffering from decompression sickness while flying. This waiting period is particularly vital for divers who have completed multiple dives or deep dives, as these factors can influence how much nitrogen is retained in the body.

Other waiting periods, like 12 hours or longer intervals, may not be based on as widely accepted recommendations, making 24 hours the generally acknowledged standard in the diving and aviation communities.