Flying in pregnancy

Woman in airplane
It's absolutely safe to fly throughout most of your pregnancy, but from 28 weeks of pregnancy, you'll need a signed letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date. The doctor's letter should also state that you're safe to fly and unlikely to go into labour on the flight. You may not be asked for it on every flight but make sure you keep a copy in your hand luggage just in case.

If this is your first baby, now's your chance to enjoy the luxury of uninterrupted time alone, with your husband or with friends. It's also a last opportunity to make the most of travelling light. For the next few years, you'll have to take a car seat, pushchair, nappies and toys with you wherever you go!

Follow our tips for a relaxing and safe flight.

Is it safe to fly during my first and second trimesters?

Yes, but check with your doctor before flying if you've had medical problems during your pregnancy such as:

You may find your second trimester (14 weeks to 27 weeks) is the best time to fly. If you've had morning sickness, it should hopefully be behind you by then. In addition, your energy levels will be higher and your hormones will be giving you a boost, so you'll be looking and feeling great.

Is it safe to fly during my third trimester?

Generally yes, but this will depend on whether you've had any medical problems during your pregnancy. Always check with your doctor first.

If you've had a healthy pregnancy, you can fly on most airlines until you're 36 weeks pregnant. If you're carrying twins, this will usually be up to 32 weeks. Remember that this applies to how many weeks pregnant you are on the day you fly back home, and check with your airline before you book.

Travel agents and airlines won't ask if you're pregnant when you book your ticket. But if your bump is showing, you may be asked at the check-in desk. Check your airline or travel agent’s rules on their website before you book. Some airlines have a prewritten letter that you can print off and get your doctor to sign.

Will airport security scanners harm my baby?

No. When you walk through the security scanner at the airport, you pass through a metal detector which won’t harm your baby. Only your luggage is X-rayed. The full-body backscatter X-ray systems used at some airports are also safe during pregnancy.

Will flying harm my baby?

There is no evidence that flying, or being in a pressurised cabin, is harmful to your unborn baby.

However, it's best not to fly in a small plane that doesn't have cabin pressure. The air is significantly thinner at high altitudes. In an aircraft without cabin pressure, your body has to work harder to supply you and your baby with enough oxygen.

How can I stay comfortable while flying?

Keep your blood circulating by moving around as often as possible. Sitting still anywhere for long periods of time can make your feet and ankles swell and your legs cramp.

Try to walk around for three minutes to four minutes every hour. Walking up and down the aisle and doing some simple stretches will help to avoid the risk of blood clots (thrombosis).

Sitting or standing, stretch your leg out heel first and gently flex your foot to stretch your calf muscles. When you're sitting, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes. Roll your shoulders in both directions, and roll your neck by dropping ear to shoulder and slowly rolling your head back and forth. Repeat all exercises 10 times.

Take an aisle seat where possible. It'll give you extra leg room and make it easy to take short strolls and bathroom breaks.

Cabin pressure is likely to make your feet swell during the flight, so wear comfortable shoes. If there's an empty seat next to you, why not slip your shoes off and put your feet up?

Flying can also make you dehydrated because the cabin air has very little moisture in it. Keep a bottle of water with you and sip from it regularly.

Flying during pregnancy can slightly increase your risk of blood clots and varicose veins. Wear compression stockings (flight socks) when you fly to help keep your circulation flowing. Put the stockings on before you get out of bed in the morning and keep them on until you go to bed after your flight.

If you notice swelling, soreness, tenderness or redness in one of your legs, particularly at the back of your lower leg, get medical help. This could be a sign of a blood clot.

How can I enjoy my flight when I'm pregnant?

It doesn't hurt to ask if it's possible to be upgraded to business or first class, for a bit of extra space and pampering. If that's not possible, you can still aim for a stress-free travelling experience:
  • Check in online as soon as possible. You’ll be more likely to get the seat you want if your airline provides a choice of seating.
  • If you can't check in online in advance, arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Rushing through check in and security isn’t a pleasant experience, especially when you’re pregnant.
  • Wear lightly layered, loose-fitting clothes that you can peel off if you get too hot, and choose comfortable shoes.
  • Adjust your seat belt under your bump and across your pelvis. If it's too small, tell the cabin crew. Seat belt extenders are usually kept on board.
  • Head to the toilet as soon as you're on the plane, in case it’s kept waiting to take off and you can’t leave your seat.
  • Drink plenty of bottled water and fruit juice to stay hydrated.
  • Try to relax and enjoy the trip, you're going on holiday after all!

If you're still weighing up your travel options, check out our article on travelling by car during pregnancy.

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