Can airlines refuse pregnant passengers?

Every airline can have its own standard for when pregnant women are no longer permitted to fly or need medical clearance before doing so. However, the general rule of thumb is up to 36 weeks pregnant. Passengers over 36 weeks pregnant could risk adverse effects if they fly too far into their pregnancy.



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After 36 weeks of pregnancy, your health care provider may advise against flying. And some airlines don't allow pregnant people to fly after 36 weeks. The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised.

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If you're pregnant and traveling before your 36th week, you can travel on a United flight without medical documentation. If you've reached your 36th week or after, you'll need an obstetrician's certificate — the original and two copies — stating that you're fit for air travel.

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Flying while pregnant Most airlines won't let you fly if you're within about a month of your due date. Some will need a letter from your GP or midwife saying you're fit to fly when you're 7 months pregnant. Check with the airline before you book.

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Pregnant travellers can normally travel safely by air. In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women can safely fly up to 36 weeks gestation. Most airlines restrict travel in late pregnancy or may require a written confirmation from a physician.

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After 36 weeks of pregnancy, your health care provider may advise against flying. And some airlines don't allow pregnant people to fly after 36 weeks. The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised.

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If a flight attendant is found to be pregnant, they will stop flying. They will be placed on medical maternity leave until the pregnancy ends. During this time, she may receive some form of compensation (allowance) and health benefits from her employer, but will not be able to work or fly during her pregnancy.

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Ryanair: You can travel with the airline up to 28 weeks in, after which they require a 'fit to fly' letter from your midwife or doctor. You can fly with the airline until the end of the 36th week of a single pregnancy, or the 32nd week if you're expecting more than one baby.

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Emirates said it has a policy whereby female cabin crew that become pregnant in the first three years have to leave.

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