Flying While Pregnant: Airline Policies You Need to Know 2025

Welcome to the first part of our new Family Travel Series.

We're starting right at the beginning of your flying journey with a family, travelling while pregnant.

First things first: we're not medical professionals, and this article is not intended to offer medical advice. That’s best left to the experts. What we can do, however, is guide you through the pregnancy travel policies of some of the most popular UK airlines, so you know what to expect before you book.

Flying whilst pregnant can be daunting

Before we dive in, a quick note: only you, and your doctor, can decide whether flying is right for you during pregnancy. Always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure, and above all, make the choice that feels safest and most comfortable for you and your baby.

Flying While Pregnant: Airline Policies You Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Planning a holiday or essential travel while pregnant? Understanding the airline rules for expectant mothers is crucial for a smooth, stress-free journey. Each airline has its own guidelines on how far into pregnancy you can fly and whether you’ll need medical clearance. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of major UK and European airlines’ pregnancy policies for 2025.

British Airways

British Airways allows pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks for a single pregnancy and up to 32 weeks for a multiple pregnancy. After 28 weeks, a medical certificate confirming that your pregnancy is uncomplicated and you are fit to fly is required. This should include your estimated due date and confirmation that you are not at risk of complications.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic permits flying until the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies, and until the end of the 32nd week for twins or more. A doctor’s note is needed after 28 weeks, confirming your fitness to travel and the absence of complications. The letter should also include your due date.

Wizz Air

Expectant passengers can travel with Wizz Air up to the 34th week of pregnancy. If you are between 28 and 34 weeks, you must carry a medical certificate stating that you are fit to fly. Wizz Air does not allow passengers to fly after the 34th week of pregnancy under any circumstances.

Jet2

Jet2 permits flying up to 34 weeks if you’re expecting one baby, and up to 32 weeks if expecting multiples. From 28 weeks onwards, a medical certificate is required confirming that you are fit to travel. This certificate must be issued within seven days of the outbound flight and should cover your return date as well.

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Ryanair

Ryanair allows travel up to the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies, and up to the end of the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. If you are more than 28 weeks pregnant, a “fit to fly” letter from your doctor or midwife is mandatory. This letter must be dated within two weeks of your flight and state that there are no complications.

Loganair

Loganair follows the general industry guidelines, allowing travel up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies and 32 weeks for multiples. A doctor’s note is required from 28 weeks onward, confirming that you are fit to fly and that your pregnancy is proceeding without complications.

Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus permits pregnant travellers to fly up to 36 weeks in the case of a single pregnancy, and up to 32 weeks for twins or more. From 28 weeks onward, a letter from your healthcare provider is advised. While the airline may not always ask for it, carrying one is recommended to avoid being denied boarding.

easyJet

easyJet allows flying up to the end of the 35th week for single pregnancies, and up to the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. They do not strictly require a doctor’s note, but it is recommended to have one after 28 weeks, especially if any health issues are present or if your pregnancy is considered high-risk.

Key Things to Remember When Flying While Pregnant

• After 28 weeks, most airlines will require or strongly recommend a doctor’s note confirming your fitness to fly.

• Cut-off weeks vary between 32 and 36 weeks, depending on whether you’re carrying one baby or more.

• Always check with the airline before your flight, as policies can change and certain routes may have additional restrictions.

• Choose your seat wisely, an aisle seat will make moving around and frequent bathroom visits easier.

• Travel insurance should cover pregnancy-related medical issues, but always verify this before departure.

• Lastly, check the rules for your travel destination regarding pregnancy. Some countries have specific regulations to prevent what's known as 'birth tourism', when someone travels with the intention of giving birth there so their child can obtain citizenship and therefore a more favourable passport.

  
  

There is plenty of advice out there to follow

Final Thoughts

Travelling while pregnant is generally safe for healthy individuals, especially during the second trimester. However, every airline has different rules about when you can fly and what documentation is needed. Plan ahead, carry the necessary paperwork, and speak with your healthcare provider before booking your flight.

Always make the decision that you feel is best for yourself and for your bundle of joy, you can of course never be too safe but make sure you are doing everything you can to make you feel safe and confident in your decisions.

Whether it’s a baby-moon or essential travel, being well-informed can help you enjoy a comfortable journey.

Helena

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