There are several commercial US airlines Policies for Pregnant women. It’s often OK to stop during the first or second trimester, but the final 13 weeks are when limits get more difficult since, let’s face it, nobody wants their kid to burst at 45,000 feet. While taking a trip with a newborn presents its own set of difficulties, pregnant women face additional difficulties.
One reason is that there’s usually a ton of paperwork required. Before booking a ticket on any of these 14 airlines, expectant women should be aware of the following restrictions, which vary depending on the airline:
Air Canada:
There are no exceptions; you can only travel up to four weeks before your due date.
Air France:
No requirement for a medical clearance.
Alaska Airlines:
No limitations.
American Airlines:
Unless your doctor fills out a passenger medical form (asked over the phone) and gives a letter, traveling on domestic flights up to seven days prior to your due date is not recommended. The same paperwork is required for foreign travel up to four weeks prior to the departure date, and it may only be completed 48 hours before takeoff.
British Airways:
If there are more than one bun in the oven, you cannot fly after 36 weeks or after 32 weeks. A pregnancy record and a doctor’s letter are needed to board the aircraft after 28 weeks.
Cathay Pacific:
A comprehensive medical certificate, issued no later than 10 days prior to the journey, is necessary after 28 weeks. The good news is that travelers are permitted to be up to 36 weeks along in a healthy pregnancy.
Delta Airlines:
JetBlue:
Like American Airlines, paperwork must be completed 48 hours before takeoff and up to four weeks prior to the delivery date.
Ryanair:
Have your doctor complete this fit to fly form if you are between 28 and 36 weeks pregnant.
Southwest Airlines:
No limitations; however, you could be requested to move from the emergency exit row (we know, that additional leg room would have been fantastic).
Spirit Airlines:
Although the company doesn’t expressly want any official documentation, its website does suggest getting a medical exam.
Swiss International:
After 36 weeks, no more flights. Compression stockings and a doctor’s note are advised after 28 weeks.
United Airlines:
A medical certificate (and two copies) dated within 72 hours of departure are required for travel during the ninth month of pregnancy.
Virgin Atlantic:
A pregnancy information form must be completed by a doctor if the patient is traveling between 28 and 36 weeks along. A flight is then permitted only for “urgent medical or compassionate reasons” after that.
Is it Safe To Fly When Pregnant
As long as the pregnancy is healthy, flying is usually safe until 36 weeks. Before the 36th week of pregnancy, most US airlines let pregnant passengers travel domestically throughout the third trimester. Travel beyond 28 weeks is restricted on many international flights.
If you suffer any of the following pregnancy-related complications, flying is generally not advised:
- pre-eclampsia
- premature membrane rupture
- premature delivery
To be sure flying is safe for you while pregnant, always check with your doctor.
A doctor’s certificate may also be needed for some airlines in the final month of pregnancy. To discover their policies and any documentation you might need, give the airline a call in advance.
Are Metal Detectors Safe During Pregnancy
Modern imaging technologies and X-rays at airports are usually regarded as safe for all travelers, including expectant mothers.
You ask to be patted down rather than going through a metal detector if you’re worried. Inform the airport security officer that you would want a pat-down and that you are pregnant. You will be screened and informed about the procedure by a female security officer.
Personal Tips For Safe Travel During Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant and planning a trip, heed these safety and health advice beside of US airlines policies for pregnant women:
- Put on flat shoes and loose apparel for a comfortable look.
- Choose an aisle seat to allow for easy legroom and bathroom breaks. Get up and stroll the aisles at least every two hours. Prior to your trip, stay away from meals and beverages that release carbon dioxide and gas.
- Bring a bottle of water to remain hydrated during the journey, and prepare some nutritious snacks for when you start to get hungry.
Seeing your doctor before your vacation is also a smart idea. They are able to verify that traveling is safe for you.