Airline Policies for Pregnant Travellers

Pregnant women can travel on commercial airlines without any restrictions during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. But in the third trimester there may be certain restrictions for pregnant travellers. Pregnant travellers are readily allowed by airlines till their 27th week of pregnancy. However, it is always safe and wise to get permission from your doctor before traveling during pregnancy.

Every airline has different policies and rules for pregnant travellers. Mostly airlines say ‘no’ to pregnant travellers on beyond their 36^th week of pregnancy. Women with multiple pregnancies such as those pregnant with twins can also be refused by airlines. Factors that influence airline policies are the duration of pregnancy, overall health of women and whether one is expecting multiples or a single baby.  Airline policies for pregnant travellers include:

• Expectant mothers are allowed to travel till the 32^rd week of pregnancy.
• In case of uncomplicated pregnancies, women are allowed to travel till the 32^nd week of pregnancy. However, medical clearance is required after 32 weeks of pregnancy.
• Most of the airlines such as Air India requires medical certificate at the time of booking. If there is more than a month's gap between booking and departure date then another certificate is needed before 3 days of departure. American airlines require fitness certificate within 18 hour of departure.
• The airlines such as AirIndia do not allow women with multiple pregnancies or with any complication after the 32^nd week. However, in event of any emergency, an expectant mother may be allowed to travel. A pregnant woman is also required to sign an indemnity bond and must be accompanied by a physician during the flight.
• Airlines such as Kingfisher and Jet Airways permit pregnant women to travel between 36^th and 38^th week of pregnancy. However, they must have a fitness certificate from an obstetrician and be accompanied by MBBS doctor.
• All the relevant certificates need to be submitted to the medical department of the airline.

Given that policies vary from one airline to another, it is wise to check the policies chosen airline. This can be done by talking to them or by simply checking their official website.

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