TRAVELING WHILE PREGNANT

Pregnancy should not be seen as a condition which limits your lifestyle or a reason to postpone your travel plans. As long as you are not suffering from any medical complications during this special time, you can travel as you normally would. 

Planning to fly while pregnant 

Pregnant passengers can fly between the start of the 28^th week of pregnancy and the end of the 35^th week, as long as they can present a medical report indicating that there are no issues with flying. However, pregnant passengers in the 36^th week of their pregnancy or later will not be allowed to fly, even if they present a medical report.

Medical report specifically for flying 

There are a few steps to follow before you plan to travel while pregnant: 

• Be sure to see your doctor before flying. Have any inoculations you might require. 
• If you have suffered complications during your pregnancy, do not fly. 
• Even if you have no concerns about flying, still consult your doctor. 

If there are risks concerning diabetes, hypertension, premature birth or miscarriage, your doctor may not permit you to fly. 

Flying is safe 

Flying is not dangerous for expectant mothers enjoying normal pregnancies; in fact it is one of the safest methods of transport. 

Changes experienced during a flight 

When leaving sea level, there is a reduction in atmospheric pressure and levels of oxygen. These changes pose no risk to pregnant passengers. 

In-flight cabin pressure

Pressurized aircraft cabins pose no risk to healthy expectant mothers. 

Long flights 

Inactivity can increase the risk of edema in the legs, clots behind the knees and deep vein thrombosis. Do not remain inactive on long flights, and be sure to get up at least once every two hours. 

Exercises you can do while flying 

Doing exercises in the flight cabin can help improve circulation. You can do the following exercises while seated: 

• Foot circles 
• Foot raise 
• Knee exercises 
• Arm stretches 
• Knee to chest raise 
• Bends 
• Upper body stretches 
• Neck rotation 
• Shoulder stretches 

Seat selection 

Pregnant passenger should choose aisle seats for a more comfortable journey. 

Clothing 

Pregnant passengers should dress comfortably for their flight. 

Detectors at the airport 

Magnetic detectors do not emit light, they rely on magnets to work. This poses no danger to pregnant passengers. 

Situations in which pregnant passengers should not fly 

Flying should be avoided if you have experienced bleeding during your pregnancy, are at risk of premature birth, have high blood pressure or are anemic. 

Tips for pregnant passengers 

• Find out your airline's pregnant passenger policy and any pregnancy week limits they may have before flying. Find out more on our pregnant passengers page.
• Request a medical report from your doctor stating that there is no risk associated with you flying. Find out more on our pregnant passengers page.
• Research medical institutions near your destination which you can visit in an emergency situation, and check whether you are covered by health insurance. 
• Dress comfortably and wear elastic stockings to promote circulation. 
• Avoid sitting still for too long. 
• Keep your seatbelt fastened while flying. Be sure that your seatbelt is fastened underneath your stomach. 
• Choose a seat in the middle of the aircraft around the wings for a more comfortable flight. 
• Support your lower back with a pillow on long-haul flights. 
• Carry an anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes with you to disinfect your hands regularly. 
• Avoid food and drinks which cause gas before and during your flight. 
• Drink plenty of water to help combat the dehydrating effects of flying. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. 
• Wear glasses rather than contact lenses while flying. 
• Try to sleep on longer flights. 
• Carry snacks with you. 
• Be sure you carry any medication you use with you. 

Contractions and labor pains while flying 

If you experience contractions or labor pains while flying, alert the cabin crew immediately. 

We would like to assure you that our cabin crew have received extensive training in assisting pregnant passengers.