Can you fly with bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a contagious disease, which means that commercial flights can refuse to have you on board. There are several other conditions linked to bronchitis that prevent flying commercially because the change in air pressure is risky for patients.



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Patients with active or contagious chest infections should avoid traveling until they are no longer infectious, as they may infect those sitting next to them. Flying is usually possible 7 to 10 days after the infection, even though the cough and mucus can last up to 3 weeks.

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The most important preventive measure is to avoid flying when symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection are present. When this is not possible, passengers should yawn, swallow, or chew to relieve pressure in the middle ear. Use of the Valsalva maneuver and decongestants or antihistamines may be helpful.

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Low air pressure during air travel also decreases the amount of oxygen in the air. This effect is modest and generally not noticeable for healthy travelers. For patients with significant lung disease, a small decrease in available oxygen can cause significant symptoms, especially with exercise.

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Having a lung condition should not stop you from travelling by air. Whether you are going on holiday, a business trip or a visit to family and friends, it should be possible to make the necessary arrangements - as long as you plan ahead.

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