Can I fly on an airplane during pregnancy? Yes, flights on an airplane during pregnancy are not prohibited. But airlines have special requirements for pregnant women. For example, at 32-36 weeks of pregnancy flights are prohibited, also some companies prohibit women from flying during pregnancy if they expect two or more children. In order for a pregnant woman to fly on an airplane at an early pregnancy, she must submit a medical certificate, or a written doctor's consent to fly. Medical examination must be completed no earlier than a week before the start of the flight. Below we present a table, which briefly describes the requirements of some airlines for flights to pregnant women.
Table of airline requirements for the flight of pregnant women
| Name of airline | Requirements |
|---|---|
| British Airways, Easyjet, British European, Air New Zealand | A medical certificate is required before the 36th week of pregnancy, after 36 weeks the flight is not allowed |
| United Airlines, Delta, Alitalia, Swissair, Air France, Lufthansa | A medical certificate is required after 36 weeks of pregnancy |
| Northwest Airlines, KLM | Women are not allowed to travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy |
| Iberia | No limits |
| Virgin | Flight after 34 weeks of pregnancy is allowed only when accompanied by a doctor |
| Air New Zealand | Flight is forbidden for multiple pregnancies |
The decision to fly on an airplane during pregnancy is better to take, before consulting with a doctor. The personal doctor knows about all the features of the course of your pregnancy, and whether you have any contraindications to the flight. It will help you determine exactly whether it is possible to fly on an airplane during your pregnancy or better to refrain from flying.
Pregnancy and flight on an airplane: what do you need to know?
- The first thing to remember is that during the flight the body quickly dehydrates. During the flight it is necessary to drink a lot of liquid, better that it was mineral water without gas.
- To avoid footstools, stroll around the cabin of the airplane if the flight is long. It is recommended to stroll periodically, for example, every 30 minutes.
- Choose the right shoes for the flight. It is desirable to have a low heel or without a heel at all. It is best to take off your shoes while on the airplane and wear warm socks.
- Clothing should be as comfortable as possible and do not restrict movement when sitting in the seat of an airplane. Ideal will be loose clothes for expectant mothers.
- It is preferable to fasten the seat belt over your belly.
- If possible, tilt the back of the seat to reduce the burden on the back.
- During the flight, use thermal water, it tones and moisturizes the skin, and also protects against dryness during the flight.
If you have any difficulties during the flight, please contact the flight attendants, they will always help you. Stewardesses are advised on pregnancy and even able to take delivery.
Good luck!