When Can You Not Fly Pregnant? Airline Policies and Safety Guidelines

Travelling while pregnant can be an exciting prospect, whether it’s for a babymoon, visiting family, or work commitments. With proper planning and awareness, many women can travel safely throughout their pregnancy. However, when it comes to flying, there are specific considerations and restrictions, particularly concerning how many weeks pregnant you are. Understanding airline policies and potential health risks is crucial for ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your baby.

Airlines, while generally welcoming pregnant travelers, implement guidelines primarily focused on the well-being of expectant mothers and the prevention of in-flight births, which pose logistical and medical challenges at high altitudes. These policies aren’t designed to discourage travel but to ensure safety. It’s essential to remember that while flying itself isn’t inherently harmful during pregnancy, certain stages and pre-existing conditions can make air travel less advisable.

Understanding Airline Restrictions on Flying While Pregnant

Airline policies regarding pregnant passengers are not uniform and can vary significantly between carriers. It’s imperative to check directly with your chosen airline for their specific regulations before booking and again closer to your travel date, as policies can change. Generally, restrictions become more stringent as your pregnancy progresses, particularly as you approach your due date.

Weeks of Gestation and Flying Policies

Most airlines categorize pregnancy into trimesters and apply different rules accordingly:

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): Generally, flying is permitted without any airline restrictions during the first trimester. However, it’s worth noting that the first trimester is often associated with common pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness and fatigue, which could make travel less comfortable. Furthermore, the risk of miscarriage, though not increased by flying itself, is statistically higher in the first three months of pregnancy.
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27): This is often considered the most comfortable time to fly during pregnancy. Morning sickness usually subsides, and you’re not yet experiencing the physical discomfort of late pregnancy. Airlines typically have minimal restrictions during this period. It is still wise to inform the airline of your pregnancy at booking or check-in.
Third Trimester (Weeks 28 onwards): This is when airline restrictions become most pronounced. The primary concern is the increased risk of going into labor. Policies vary, but generally:
- Up to 36 weeks (single pregnancy): Many airlines will allow you to fly domestically and on shorter international routes. However, you’ll likely need a doctor’s letter or midwife confirmation stating your due date and confirming that you are fit to fly and have a low-risk pregnancy. This letter is often required to be dated within a specific timeframe (e.g., 7-10 days) before your outbound and return flights.
- Beyond 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy): Most airlines will not permit you to fly. This is due to the significantly increased risk of labor and potential complications arising at a time when medical facilities in-flight are limited.

Alt: A pregnant woman comfortably seated in an airplane seat, gently touching her baby bump, suggesting safe and comfortable air travel during pregnancy.

When Airlines May Refuse Travel

Beyond gestational age, airlines can refuse travel if there are concerns about your health or the pregnancy itself. This includes:

Pregnancy Complications: If you have pre-existing conditions or pregnancy-related complications such as pre-eclampsia, placenta previa, or a history of premature labor, airlines may restrict travel to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Uncertainty about Gestational Age: If you are unsure about your due date or the stage of your pregnancy, airlines may err on the side of caution and refuse travel, particularly if you appear to be in late pregnancy.
Signs of Labor: If you are showing signs of labor, regardless of how many weeks pregnant you are, you will be denied boarding.

Doctor’s Letter and Medical Clearance

For pregnancies beyond 28 weeks, airlines commonly require a “fit to fly” letter from your doctor or midwife. This letter should include:

Confirmation of single or multiple pregnancy.
Estimated due date.
Confirmation of a low-risk pregnancy without complications.
Statement that you are fit to fly for the intended journey.
The letter’s date of issue (ensuring it falls within the airline’s specified timeframe).

Be aware that you might need to pay for this letter, and obtaining it can take a few days or weeks, so plan accordingly.

Medical Considerations: When Flying Might Be Risky

While airline restrictions are primarily based on gestational age, certain medical factors can also make flying less advisable at any stage of pregnancy.

First Trimester Concerns

Although airlines don’t restrict first-trimester travel, consider:

Morning Sickness: Nausea and vomiting can be exacerbated by air travel and cabin pressure changes, making your journey uncomfortable.
Fatigue: Early pregnancy fatigue can make travel more tiring.
Miscarriage Risk: While flying doesn’t cause miscarriage, the first trimester carries a naturally higher risk. If you experience any bleeding or concerning symptoms while traveling, access to prompt medical care might be crucial.

Third Trimester Discomfort and Labor Risk

In later pregnancy:

Discomfort: Physical discomfort from increased size, swelling, and back pain can be amplified by prolonged sitting and cabin conditions.
Labor Risk: The risk of spontaneous labor increases significantly closer to your due date. While unlikely, in-flight labor poses considerable risks.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Risk

Long-distance travel (over 4 hours), regardless of the mode of transport, carries a slightly increased risk of DVT. Pregnancy itself also elevates this risk due to hormonal changes and reduced mobility. When flying:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain blood circulation.
Move Regularly: Get up and walk around the cabin every 30 minutes if possible. If seated, perform ankle and calf exercises.
Compression Stockings: Consider wearing graduated compression stockings to improve blood flow and reduce leg swelling.

Pre-existing Conditions and Pregnancy Complications

Discuss air travel with your doctor or midwife if you have pre-existing medical conditions or have developed pregnancy complications. Conditions like anemia, heart or lung problems, diabetes, or a history of ectopic pregnancy or premature birth might necessitate extra precautions or make flying inadvisable.

General Safety Tips for Flying While Pregnant

Regardless of your stage of pregnancy, these tips can help ensure a safer and more comfortable flight:

Before You Fly: Consult Your Doctor and Airline

Medical Check-up: Discuss your travel plans with your doctor or midwife, especially if you have any health concerns.
Airline Policy Check: Confirm the airline’s specific pregnancy policy regarding gestational limits, documentation requirements, and any restrictions.
Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance comprehensively covers pregnancy-related medical care, including premature birth and changes to travel dates due to pregnancy complications.

During the Flight: Stay Hydrated, Move Around, Compression Stockings

Hydration: Drink water frequently throughout the flight. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks.
Movement: Walk in the aisle regularly, and perform seated exercises to promote circulation.
Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes.
Seat Selection: Choose an aisle seat for easier bathroom access and movement.
Seatbelt Positioning: Wear your seatbelt low across your hips, under your baby bump.

Travel Insurance and Healthcare Abroad

Comprehensive Insurance: Double-check your travel insurance covers pregnancy-related emergencies and medical care at your destination.
Healthcare Research: Research healthcare facilities at your destination in case you need medical attention.
Medical Records: Carry your maternity medical records with you, including details of your pregnancy and any relevant medical history.

Alt: A pregnant woman safely wearing a seatbelt in a car, emphasizing the importance of safety measures during travel, even beyond air travel.

Conclusion

Knowing when you can and cannot fly pregnant is vital for safe and stress-free travel. While flying is generally safe for most pregnant women, airline restrictions, particularly in the late stages of pregnancy, are in place to minimize risks. Always prioritize consulting with your healthcare provider and checking with your airline about their specific policies. By being well-informed and taking necessary precautions, you can make informed decisions about air travel during your pregnancy and enjoy your journey with greater peace of mind. Remember, your health and the well-being of your baby are paramount.