Flying When Pregnant: 5 Top Tips

Flying during pregnancy can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, visiting loved ones, or handling work obligations, the journey requires a little extra preparation to ensure both your safety and comfort and that of your baby. While air travel is generally safe for pregnant women, there are vital considerations to remember—from understanding your health status to navigating airline rules and mitigating potential inflight health risks.
Related Baby Boy Enters The World On A flynas A320neo Flight To Cairo A doctor on board delivered the baby with help from the cabin crew.
For expectant mothers, flying can present unique challenges, such as swelling, fatigue, and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Additionally, navigating airline policies regarding pregnancy and knowing the right time to travel is vital for a smooth journey. Thankfully, with expert insights and a proactive approach, pregnant travelers can take to the skies confidently and safely.
1 Consult your healthcare provider before traveling
Doctors can assess your ability to travel safely
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Before booking any flights, discussing your travel plans with your healthcare provider is crucial. They can assess your health and the progression of your pregnancy to determine if flying is advisable. Certain conditions, such as severe anemia, sickle cell disease, or a history of preterm labor, may necessitate special precautions or even a recommendation to avoid flying. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, having a prenatal check-up before you leave to confirm your due date and ensure you’re up-to-date on vaccinations is essential.
Here’s a checklist for traveling while pregnant:
Time Activity Products Needed 1–2 Weeks Before Travel Prepare for travel Travel insurance, doctor’s approval letter, prenatal records Pack essentials Maternity clothing, compression socks, travel-sized pregnancy pillow Day of Travel (Morning) Hydrate and prepare snacks Water bottle, healthy snacks, prenatal vitamins Dress comfortably Comfortable shoes, loose maternity clothing Prepare for relaxation Noise-canceling headphones, eye mask At the Airport/Station Ensure comfort and hygiene Toiletry kit (moisturizer, lip balm), small pillow for back support Stay mobile and comfortable Lightweight bag for essentials During Travel (First Few Hours) Support posture and circulation Maternity support belt, compression socks Stay entertained Books, podcasts, music Perform stretches No additional products (seated stretches recommended) Midway Through Journey Take a bathroom break No additional products Eat light meals/snacks Pre-packed healthy snacks Arrival (First Day) Adjust to destination Local hospital/clinic contact info Relax and settle in Extra pillows for sleeping comfort Unpack essentials Body lotion, hand sanitizer, wipes Daily Routine During Stay Stay comfortable and healthy Prenatal vitamins, nutritious food, comfortable bedding Explore or rest as needed Travel stroller (if applicable), portable fan (for warm climates) Emergency Preparedness Have essentials ready First aid kit, emergency contact list, phone charger
Related Singapore Airlines Will No Longer Fire Pregnant Flight Attendants The flag carrier states that expecting cabin crew may work in a temporary ground attachment and resume flying duties after maternity leave.
2 Understand airline policies and prepare the necessary documentation
After 36 weeks, many airlines have restrictive travel policies
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Airlines have varying policies regarding pregnant travelers, especially as you approach your due date. Many airlines restrict travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy; some may require a letter from your doctor confirming your due date and that you’re fit to fly. It’s advisable to check with your specific airline before flying. As noted by the National ChildbirthTrust, some airlines require written documentation from your practice nurse, birthing specialist, or obstetrician to confirm you are in good health, that your pregnancy is uncomplicated, and your due date.
Photo: Chicago Midway Airport
Despite all the regulations and advisories, many women still fly while pregnant for a multitude of reasons, and that sometimes leads to unexpected deliveries on the aircraft:
Date Airline Route Event Description January 19, 2023 Emirates Tokyo Narita to Dubai International A mother gave birth during the 12-hour overnight flight. September 2021 Turkish Airlines Istanbul to Chicago A Moroccan passenger delivered a child mid-flight. July 2019 Unspecified Doha, Qatar, to Beirut, Lebanon A baby was born, prompting a diversion to Kuwait for immediate medical care. August 2020 MIAT Mongolian Airlines Unspecified Twins were born aboard the flight; the airline granted them free flights for life. February 2020 Qatar Airways Bound for Bangkok The flight diverted to Kolkata after a baby was born onboard. October 2019 Air India Enroute to Kochi The flight diverted to Frankfurt following an in-flight birth. April 2017 Jet Airways Dammam to Kochi A baby boy was born mid-flight; the airline offered him free travel for life. June 2015 Cebu Pacific Air Dubai to Manila A baby girl was born at 36,000 feet; the airline awarded her 1 million frequent flyer miles. October 2011 AirAsia Kuala Lumpur to Kuching A baby boy was born mid-flight; the airline provided a gift and free flights. December 2009 Northwest Airlines Amsterdam to Boston A woman gave birth over the Atlantic Ocean; the flight continued to its destination. March 2004 Virgin Atlantic Johannesburg to London The airline experienced its first in-flight birth at 36,000 feet; the baby was named Virginia, and the airline named an aircraft in her honor.
3 Take measures to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
A common and dangerous side effect of traveling while pregnant
Pregnancy increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, often in the legs. Long flights can further increase this risk due to prolonged immobility. To mitigate this risk, consider the following strategies:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to maintain good circulation.
Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to maintain good circulation. Move regularly: Take short walks around the cabin every 30 minutes and perform in-seat exercises, such as ankle circles and foot flexes.
Take short walks around the cabin every 30 minutes and perform in-seat exercises, such as ankle circles and foot flexes. Wear compression stockings: These can help improve leg blood flow and reduce swelling.
The National Health Service advises wearing graduated elastic compression stockings to help reduce leg swelling and the risk of DVT.
Related Frontier Airlines Settles Pregnancy Bias Lawsuit The airline allegedly banned on-duty breast pumping and penalized absences.
4 Choose the optimal time for travel.
14 to 28 weeks is considered the best time to fly
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The timing of your trip can significantly impact your comfort and safety. The second trimester (14 to 28 weeks) is often considered the safest and most comfortable time to travel. Morning sickness has typically subsided during this period, and energy levels are higher.The National Health Service notes that many women find the best time to travel or take a holiday in mid-pregnancy, between 4 and 6 months.
Airline Flying While Pregnant Policy American Airlines Medical certificate required after 36 weeks for domestic flights Delta Air Lines No restrictions; consult with your doctor United Airlines Doctor’s note required within 7 days of due date Emirates Medical certificate required after 29 weeks Qantas Clearance needed for multiple pregnancies after 28 weeks Lufthansa Medical certificate needed after 28 weeks Ryanair Travel restricted after 36 weeks; 32 weeks for multiples JetBlue No formal policy; consult your doctor British Airways No flying after 36 weeks; doctor’s note after 28 weeks
5 Pack essential items and plan for comfort
Comfort is critical while traveling pregnant.
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Ensuring your comfort during the flight can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Consider the following tips:
Bring your maternity records: Carry a copy of your prenatal records if you need medical attention during your trip. The National Health Service recommends taking your maternity medical records with you so you can give doctors the relevant information if necessary.
Carry a copy of your prenatal records if you need medical attention during your trip. The National Health Service recommends taking your maternity medical records with you so you can give doctors the relevant information if necessary. Dress comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes to accommodate any swelling.
Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes to accommodate any swelling. Use a seatbelt properly: Fasten the seatbelt under your bump and across your pelvis for safety and comfort.
Fasten the seatbelt under your bump and across your pelvis for safety and comfort. Stay nourished: Pack healthy snacks to maintain energy levels and prevent nausea.