If you’re on your final month of pregnancy, most airlines are cool with you traveling as long as you have permission from your doctor. However, some airlines are stricter than others, and Travel + Leisure breaks down the many airline rules for pregnant travelers.


While most airlines are fairly lenient, some have surprisingly strict policies. Here are the policies for a few of the most popular airlines:

American Airlines Whether she is traveling within the U.S., or to Canada, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Airlines will not allow a pregnant woman to board one of their aircrafts if she’s within seven days of her baby’s due date. When flying internationally, AA doesn’t advise expectant mothers to fly within 30 days (approximately 4 weeks) of their due date. If they need to travel during that time, they will be required to visit their doctor less than 48 hours before their flight and obtain a letter that states they are medically fit for flying. If a pregnant woman needs to travel within 10 days of her baby’s due date, she must receive authorization from AA’s Special Assistance Team in addition to a letter from her doctor. United If traveling during her ninth month of pregnancy, an expectant mother will need a doctor’s note—plus two photocopies‑stating that it’s safe for her to fly and specifying both her baby’s due date and the date of the last flight on her itinerary. United asks that the note be dated within 72 hours of flight departure. Air France While Air France suggests that expectant mothers avoid travel during the final month of pregnancy, the airline has no restrictions for pregnant travelers. In fact the their website even encourages traveling while pregnant, offering helpful suggestions on how to stay comfortable during your journey including reserving an aisle seat and wearing your seatbelt below your abdomen. British Airways After 28 weeks of pregnancy, British Airways requires expectant mothers to carry a medical certificate (including a letter and pregnancy record) confirming her due date and a note saying that it’s safe to fly. Pregnant women will not be allowed to board a BA flight after 36 weeks of pregnancy.


If you’re planning to travel while pregnant, it helps to be aware of the policies and paperwork you may need to have on hand. For Travel + Leisure’s full list, head to the link below.

Airline Rules for Traveling While Pregnant | Travel + Leisure

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