Pregnant Women Travel in Flights

Pregnant Women Air Travel Policies

Traveling during pregnancy? There might be thousands of questions coming to your mind when it comes to boarding a flight while you are expecting. In general, it is safe to travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy, i.e., till the second trimester, but after that, a medical certificate and expert guidance are required to be safe. Doctors usually do not advise flight travel during the third trimester, unless urgently required. Airlines have issued different policies to ensure the safety and comfort of the would-be-mother and fellow passengers.

For those who need guidance regarding traveling during pregnancy, we have a team of experts who can assist you with the policies and facilities offered by airlines. Call our 24/7 customer care and plan hassle-free travel during pregnancy. Check out the video on flying when you are pregnant or read the policies of airlines which we have described below:

US Airlines Policies For Pregnant Women

1. Alaska Airlines
   • Alaska Airlines permits pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies to travel by air until they reach 32 weeks of pregnancy. However, you must have a certificate stating no complications to travel after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
   • Passengers must inform the crew members regarding any food allergies, meal schedules, and health complications.
2. American Airlines
   • Travelers with a due date within 4 weeks are not allowed to fly. If there is any urgency, you must provide a medical certificate for the same stating you are fit to travel.
   • Taking care of health and comfort, American Airlines provides facilities like tilting seats, wide aisles, and easy access to the business class.
   • American Airlines does not allow trips more than 4 to 5 hours to women with due dates within a week.
3. Delta Airlines
   • Women who are 27 weeks pregnant are allowed on board without any travel restrictions.
   • However one needs to consult a medical practitioner to travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy.
   • You need not submit any medical certificate while booking or boarding the flight.
   • The airline always advises pregnant women to book flights in advance to get a desired and comfortable seat with extra leg space.
4. United Airlines
   • You need no note from your gynecologist/ obstetrician to travel until the third trimester.
   • Once you reach the 36th week, you must have a letter duly signed by the obstetrician dated not more than 3 days before the departure date.
5. Southwest Airlines
   • There are no restrictions for pregnant women flying with Southwest Airlines till the 37th week. You may travel after that if your obstetrician allows.
   • The airline doesn't allow pregnant women to sit at the emergency exit due to safety issues
6. Hawaiian Airlines
   • The airline requires a letter of examination duly written and signed by your obstetrician within 48 hours of your departure date.
   • If your due date is 7 days from the state of departure, a fit-to-fly certificate is required not more than 72 hours before departure.
7. Frontier Airlines
   • There are no restrictions on pregnant women traveling within 35 weeks of pregnancy.
   • You need a medical certificate to travel after 36th weeks, stating you are fit to fly.
8. Spirit Airlines
   • No restrictions for pregnant women but consultation before travel is recommended.

Other Foreign Carriers and Their Policies

• Air Canada: Requires medical note to travel four weeks before your due date
• Cathay Pacific: Medical certificate required after 28 weeks of pregnancy
• Swiss International: A medical note is required after 28 weeks of pregnancy. No travel is allowed after the 36th week.
• Virgin Atlantic: Requires medical certificate to fly after the 28th week of pregnancy.

General Guidelines on Pregnant Women Travel

• While most airlines allow pregnant women to fly, it is always safe to consult your obstetrician.
• Avoid traveling unless urgent.
• Dress well and pack well as the body temperature fluctuates when you are pregnant and a few handy layers can be helpful.
• Stay hydrated and carry a few healthy snacks.
• If you are on a long flight, try to walk a little around to avoid any swelling.