What is the recommended wait time to fly after a scuba dive that requires a controlled ascent?

• A. At least 12 hours
• B. At least 24 hours
• C. At least 6 hours
• D. At least 48 hours

Answer: (B)

Flying after a scuba dive increases the risk of decompression sickness because the cabin pressure at altitude is lower than at the surface, which can cause dissolved nitrogen in the tissues to form bubbles. If the dive involved a controlled ascent, there’s a higher likelihood that inert gas remains in the body, so more time is needed to off-gas safely. Waiting 24 hours gives the body enough time to return toward equilibrium under normal pressure, reducing the chance of bubbles forming during flight. While no-decompression dives might allow shorter waits, the safer standard for dives with a controlled ascent is a 24-hour wait before flying.