Airline Travel Restrictions on Pregnancy

Flight restrictions for pregnant flyers differ from airline to airline.

Different airlines have different policies when it comes to pregnant flyers. In the first two trimesters of pregnancy, travelers should not have any problems flying on commercial airlines. However, in their third trimester, they may face a number of restrictions depending on the airline.

Recommendations

Before booking a flight expecting mothers should make sure to ask the agent about the airlines policy towards pregnant flyers, as they generally won't provide this information. Some airlines won't let women fly up to 30 days before they are due to give birth, while others will let them on seven days before. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or ACOG, states that women shouldn't fly if they are over 36 weeks pregnant. Pregnant travelers should make sure that they also consider how close their return date is, as they might find that they are allowed to fly out, but can't fly back.

Permission

All airlines recommend that pregnant women see their doctor before they travel. While not all require a physician's note giving permission to travel, it is something to think about, especially if travelers are in their third trimester. Some airlines, such as British Airways, restricts travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy and require a medical statement from a physician if traveling after the seventh month. This statement will have on it the expected due date and whether a woman is fit to travel. Expectant mothers should check with the airline beforehand. If they are uncertain and want to avoid any confusion, they should get a medical statement from a physician before they fly.

Length

If women have had difficulties in previous pregnancies, it is unlikely that they will be allowed on board the flight. Most airlines restrict the length of flights for pregnant women to four hours and after they do give birth, they will probably not be allowed to fly for the first two days.

Safety

Pregnant women are not allowed to sit next to an emergency exit according to the Federal Aviation Administration, as these need to be taken by people who will be strong enough to lift the emergency door should it be required. The ACOG also suggests that pregnant women keep their seat belts fastened at all times during the flight to reduce the risk of turbulence having an effect on the passenger and their unborn baby.

Newborns

Restrictions for traveling with a newborn baby will again depend on the airline. Some airlines, such as Air Canada, require that the baby be at least seven-days-old, whereas Alaska Airlines does not have an age restriction for a newborn. Some airlines, such as Delta, will require a note from a physician stating that a baby is fit to travel.

References

• Baby Center
• Pregnancy Info