How does one pray during an airplane flight?
When praying during an airplane flight, one can draw from teachings related to praying under conditions of fear or necessity. The Qur'an states: And if ye go in fear, then (pray) standing or on horseback. And when ye are again in safety, remember Allah, as He hath taught you that which (heretofore) ye knew not.
2:239 This verse emphasizes the allowance for adapting one's prayer based on the circumstances, highlighting that one can pray while standing or in a position suited to their situation.
In terms of practical application, it is commonly understood that when traveling, and especially during a flight, one can perform the prayer while seated. The Shia hadith literature also provides guidance on praying while on a mount, which can be interpreted to apply to being on an airplane. For instance, it is narrated: Two units, with no more before or after except that the traveler should pray four units after sunset and may perform voluntary prayers at night as he wishes if settled. And if he is riding, he should pray on his mount while seated with gestures; his head should be where he wants to prostrate, lowered less than his bowing.
Al-Kafi 4:744
These teachings indicate that one should strive to perform their prayers to the best of their ability, adapting as necessary based on their circumstances while traveling.
Sources
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2:239 · Al-Baqara
2:239 · Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall
فَإِنْ خِفْتُمْ فَرِجَالًا أَوْ رُكْبَانًۭا ۖ فَإِذَآ أَمِنتُمْ فَٱذْكُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ كَمَا عَلَّمَكُم مَّا لَمْ تَكُونُوا۟ تَعْلَمُونَ
And if ye go in fear, then (pray) standing or on horseback. And when ye are again in safety, remember Allah, as He hath taught you that which (heretofore) ye knew not.
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Al-Kafi 4:744
Al-Kafi · Book 4, Hadith 744
Regarding the verse "And they ask you, is it true?" he said: What do you say about Ali? Say yes, by my Lord, it is true and you shall not prevail. — OR — I asked him about the prayer while traveling. He said: Two units, with no more before or after except that the traveler should pray four units after sunset and may perform voluntary prayers at night as he wishes if settled. And if he is riding, he should pray on his mount while seated with gestures; his head should be where he wants to prostrate, lowered less than his bowing.
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