Flying is generally safe during pregnancy until about 36 weeks, and the second trimester is often the most comfortable. Check airline rules and ask your doctor.
Best time
The second trimester (weeks 14 to 27) is usually most comfortable and carries the lowest risk.
Cutoffs
- ACOG says flying is safe until 36 weeks for uncomplicated pregnancies.
- Many airlines require a letter after 28 to 36 weeks.
- International flights: often limit at 32 to 35 weeks.
Risks
Blood clots (DVT) and turbulence. Move often and drink water.
Tips
Choose an aisle seat and wear compression socks.
Check
Ask your provider first, especially with complications or twins.
Airline and medical limits
Most airlines allow flying until 36 weeks for single pregnancies and 32 weeks for twins, though some set 28 weeks as the point to carry a doctor’s letter. Qantas, for example, requires a medical certificate from 28 weeks. ACOG states that travel is generally safe until 36 weeks for those without complications.
- The second trimester, weeks 14 to 28, is generally seen as the most comfortable window since nausea eases and risk of miscarriage is lower.
- Cabin radiation on typical flights is low, but frequent flyers such as crew are monitored.
- Pregnancy raises the risk of venous thromboembolism roughly 4 to 5 fold, so long flights call for hydration, walking every 1 to 2 hours and calf exercises.
- Compression stockings may be advised on flights over 4 hours.
When to avoid flying
Women with preeclampsia, risk of preterm labor, placenta previa, severe anemia or uncontrolled diabetes should ask a doctor first. Know the location of medical care at the destination, and check insurance. Zika-affected regions are not advised during pregnancy, according to the CDC. Wear the seat belt below the belly.
Typical rules
Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies and 32 weeks for multiples, and may require a doctor’s letter after 28 weeks. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that air travel is safe for healthy pregnant women, with the best time being the second trimester, weeks 14 to 28.
Safety tips
Walk the aisle and flex calves every hour to reduce clot risk, wear compression stockings, choose an aisle seat and stay hydrated. Avoid flying if you have severe anemia, preeclampsia, placenta problems, preterm labor risk or complications. Travel insurance should include pregnancy care.
Complications to avoid
Air travel at altitude cabin pressure of 6,000 to 8,000 feet reduces oxygen slightly but is safe for healthy pregnancies. Long flights raise the risk of deep vein thrombosis; pregnancy itself raises the risk 4 to 5 times. Wear compression stockings of 15 to 30 mmHg, walk every hour and stay hydrated.
Cabin radiation and security
Frequent flyers receive extra cosmic radiation, and ACOG says occasional flights are not harmful. Airport body scanners are safe. Carry prenatal records, know the hospital location at the destination and check that insurance covers pregnancy abroad. Zika risk areas should be avoided during pregnancy per CDC travel notices.
Based on data from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the CDC
