How do airlines enforce pregnancy restrictions?

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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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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After week 28 of pregnancy, the airline may ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date, and that you are not at risk of complications.

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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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You can often arrange for priority boarding on airplanes and even some cruise ships if you are pregnant and require additional time or assistance to get to your seats or accommodations. For air travel, making such arrangements in advance is usually unnecessary: Simply speak to a representative from your airline.

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All our machines receive a variety of tests to ensure they are safe. They DO NOT use X-rays to produce an image. Still not comfortable? You can always opt out and request a pat-down.

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Popular rumor claims that people born on airplanes get free flights for life. Any truth in that? Sadly, it seems to be something of a myth. Very few airlines are known to have granted a newborn free flights for life.

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To prove your child's age to an airline, one of the following documents will suffice:
  • Child's passport (how to get a U.S. passport for an infant and things to know about children's passports)
  • Child's birth certificate.
  • Child's immunization form or other medical records may also work domestically.


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Age: 0 to 2 Years Old
Unless your child already has a passport that can be used to prove their birth date, you may need to bring a copy of their birth certificate. While some airlines are more lenient than others, it's always best to come prepared.

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Pregnant women can fly in most cases. Travel during first and second trimesters is generally safe. Third trimester travel may require medical clearance. Pregnant women should stay hydrated and move regularly.

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An aisle seat will make it easier to get in and out for walks and trips to the bathroom. A bulkhead seat is the most spacious, but a seat over the wing will probably give you the smoothest ride.

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Sitting in an aisle seat is probably your best bet for the extra space, and easier access to the toilet. You should also take care to ensure that your seatbelt does not cut off any circulation to Baby.

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“This fluid accumulation is what causes aches and swelling in the lower legs, and flying can also cause temporary edema due to changes in cabin pressure and air circulation,” she explains. This makes compression socks an invaluable item to keep on hand.

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