Is it permissible to perform tayammum aboard an airplane when it is difficult to perform ablution due to the narrowness of the washbasin during a long journey?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
If water is available and its use is possible, then ablution (wudu') is obligatory, and dry ablution () is not permissible. In this case, performing ablution will yield greater reward due to the accompanying hardship, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Shall I not tell you of something by which Allah erases sins and raises ranks?" They said: "Yes, O Messenger of Allah." He said: "Performing ablution thoroughly despite difficulties, taking many steps to the mosques, and waiting for one prayer after another. That is ribat (holding to righteousness)." The 'difficulties' include intense cold and bodily pain.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/54113
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 54113
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Read the full answer on Ftawy