How long should a passenger refrain from flying after diving requiring a controlled ascent?

After a dive requiring a controlled ascent, it is recommended that a passenger refrain from flying for 24 hours before boarding an aircraft. This guideline is in place to minimize the risk of decompression sickness (often referred to as "the bends"), which can occur when nitrogen bubbles form in the body due to rapid changes in pressure, such as those experienced during flight. The 24-hour waiting period allows the body sufficient time to safely eliminate excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive, thus significantly reducing the likelihood of any related health issues when ascending to the higher altitude associated with flying. This precaution is particularly crucial if the dive involved deep water or prolonged exposure, as the risks increase with those factors.