Flying during pregnancy: is it still allowed?
Flying during pregnancy raises questions for many expectant parents: is it still allowed, until when, and is there anything specific to take into account? The rules differ between airlines, but there are some general principles that commonly apply.
Up to which week can you fly?
Most airlines allow flying until somewhere between weeks 36 and 38 in the case of a singleton, uncomplicated pregnancy, although this varies by airline.
With a multiple pregnancy, this limit is often earlier, sometimes around week 32.
From a certain week onwards, almost every airline requires a medical certificate from a doctor or midwife confirming that flying is medically responsible.
When is a medical certificate required?
In addition to the stage of pregnancy, a medical history, such as a previous premature birth, pre-eclampsia or a multiple pregnancy, may also be a reason for requiring a medical certificate, even earlier in the pregnancy.
It is best to request this certificate from your own midwife or gynaecologist well before the flight date, as some airlines use a specific form.
Without this certificate, an airline may refuse boarding, even if the pregnancy is otherwise progressing without complications.
Is flying itself medically risky?
For most healthy pregnancies, flying is not considered to pose an increased medical risk, provided that you move around sufficiently during the flight to limit the risk of thrombosis.
Cabin pressure and oxygen levels on board are generally not a problem for a healthy pregnancy, although this may be different in the case of existing lung problems or other medical conditions.
If in doubt, it is always advisable to discuss this specifically with your midwife or gynaecologist before departure.
Practical tips for on board
Where possible, choose an aisle seat for greater freedom of movement, and get up regularly to stretch your legs.
Wear comfortable clothing and, if necessary, compression stockings to limit the risk of thrombosis, especially on longer flights.
Make sure you have enough water on board and avoid long periods without moving whenever possible.
What about a long flight or a distant destination?
On a long flight, it is especially important to consider in advance how accessible medical care will be at the destination, should something happen en route or while there.
Travel insurance also deserves specific attention here: does the policy cover pregnancy-related care at this specific destination?
If you are unsure whether a distant trip is feasible at an advanced stage of pregnancy, seeking targeted advice from your own healthcare provider is recommended.
When is it best not to take a plane?
In the case of active preterm labour, severe pre-eclampsia, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or a medical situation requiring urgent care, flying is generally not an option.
In such cases, local stabilisation is addressed first; further transport is only considered when it is medically responsible.
See also our article about pregnancy complications abroad for more information about these types of situations.