All Major Airline Rules for Pregnant Travelers
If you are in your last month of pregnancy, most airlines do not mind traveling as long as you have permission from your doctor. However, some airlines are stricter than others, and Travel + Leisure violates many of the airline’s policies for pregnant travelers.
While most airlines are fairly lenient, some have surprisingly strict policies. Here are the rules for some of the most popular airlines:
american airlines
Whether she is traveling in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands, American Airlines will not allow a pregnant woman to board one of its planes if she arrives within seven days of due date.
On international flights, AA advises mums-to-be to fly 30 days (approximately 4 weeks) before the due date. If they need to leave during this time, they will have to visit their doctor less than 48 hours before departure and receive a letter stating that they are fit for the flight for health reasons. If a pregnant woman is required to travel within 10 days of due date, she must obtain permission from Special Assistance Group AA in addition to a letter from her doctor.
Combined
If you are traveling in the ninth month of pregnancy, the expectant mother will need a certificate from a doctor, as well as two photocopies stating that it is safe for her to fly and indicating both the due date of her baby and the date of the last flight on her route. United asks for the note to be dated within 72 hours of the flight’s departure.
French airlines
While Air France advises pregnant women to avoid traveling in the last month of pregnancy, the airline has no restrictions on pregnant women. In fact, their website even encourages pregnancy travel by offering helpful tips on how to stay comfortable while traveling, including reserving an aisle seat and using a lower belly belt.
British airways
After 28 weeks of pregnancy, British Airways requires expectant mothers to carry a medical certificate (including letter and pregnancy record) confirming the due date and a note that it is safe to fly. Pregnant women will not be allowed to board a BA flight after 36 weeks of pregnancy.
If you are planning to travel while pregnant, it is helpful to know the rules and documents you may need. To see the full list of Travel + Leisure, click on the link below.
Air Travel Regulations During Pregnancy | Travel + Leisure