What are the rules for flying while pregnant?
  • 26 Jun, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

What are the rules for flying while pregnant?

If you love to travel, the craving for traveling never stops, even when you are pregnant. Many Airlines have issued rules and regulations for safe and comfortable journeys to make travel easier for pregnant passengers. Most airlines allow you to travel domestically or internationally until 36 weeks of pregnancy. In the following data, you will find all the relevant details of basic rules and answers to the questions related to traveling while pregnant.

  • According to most Airline Pregnancy Policies, pregnant women can fly without a medical certificate during the First and Second Trimester.
  • If your pregnancy is further along or once you reach 36 weeks, you need to carry a medical certificate from your obstetrician stating that it's okay to travel.
  • You should remember a few things about the letter from the Obstetrician: It should be dated within three days of the trip, including both departure and arrival dates, and, most importantly, mention the baby's estimated birth date, which should be after the return flight.
  • Airlines recommend pregnant travelers select seats over the wings, which typically offers the smoothest ride during turbulence.
  • You should book the Aisle seats, as these seating options are convenient for getting in and out of the restroom. Otherwise, you can choose the premium cabins, which are more spacious.

Who should not fly during pregnancy?

Generally, Airlines do not allow pregnant women to fly after 36 weeks of pregnancy for domestic flights; however, pregnant women are not supposed to travel by Air after 28 weeks of pregnancy. There are certain situations as well under which women should not prefer flying either domestically or internationally, such as if the pregnant passenger has certain complications that require emergency care or if you have severe anemia, miscarriage, or high blood pressure that is not well controlled.

How many weeks pregnant can I fly?

Most airlines let you travel during pregnancy in the first and second trimesters without medical proof until up to 36 weeks. But suppose you wish to travel after 36 weeks. In that case, it is mandatory to carry the medical letter provided by the certified Gynac, including the due date and the estimated birthdate of the baby, which should be after the return flight date. It is applicable only for domestic flights. But if you want to travel internationally, then make sure to plan the trip before 28 weeks of pregnancy as per the Airline policy. You are not allowed to fly internationally after 28 weeks of pregnancy. 

Can I fly at seven months pregnant?

Yes, it is considered safe to travel during your seventh month of pregnancy if you aren't dealing with any pregnancy complications. However, it is always safe to speak with your healthcare provider before you travel by Air, whether Airestic or international. Also, you should check the specific Airline Pregnancy Policy because some airlines do not allow women to fly during the third trimester or 37 weeks of pregnancy, as you could go into labor anytime after those dates.

Are airport scanners safe for pregnancy?

If you are traveling by Air to any domestic or international destination soon while pregnant, a few questions may strike your mind. Are Airport Scanners Safe for Pregnancy? It is absolutely safe to pass through Airport security as it does not pose any risk to both pregnant women and their unborn babies. Thus, the metal detectors do not pose any health risks to individuals; they are used to scan the carry-ons so you can easily pass through them without stress. Get detailed information about How many weeks pregnant can a passenger fly with Philippine Airlines? 

What are the risks of flying while pregnant?

Pregnant women should take a few safety measures to fly safely because turbulence is unpredictable, which is quite risky. Therefore, Airlines suggest pregnant women use seat belts continuously to avoid inconvenience. Here, you will find a few tips for staying healthy in flight.

  • It would be best if you kept yourself hydrated.
  • Do not choose to fly on exit row seats as you may be required to help the staff during any emergency.
  • You should wear compression stockings, which will help with the blood flow.
  • Passengers should keep rotating and flexing their ankles while sitting. It will help with swelling.
  • In case you are in your first trimester and prone to morning sickness, then ask your health care about nausea remedies.
  • Pregnant women can ask for a seatbelt extender if they need one.