Pregnant? Get your Fit to Fly Certificate from our experienced midwives and GPs. We offer expert medical assessments for expectant mothers travelling abroad, ensuring you meet airline requirements for safe travel.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
A Fit to Fly certificate is a medical document issued by a healthcare professional confirming that you are medically fit to travel by air during your pregnancy. Airlines require this certification to ensure both your safety and your baby’s wellbeing whilst flying.
The certificate verifies:
Most airlines will not permit pregnant passengers to fly without this documentation, particularly on international flights or when travelling beyond 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Please bring your scan reports and midwife notes to your appointment
Most airlines allow pregnant passengers to fly up to 36 weeks with a single pregnancy and up to 32 weeks with twins or multiples, though exact cut-offs can vary.
Please ensure you check the relevant guidelines and policies of the airline you are travelling with. Our reports will only state factual information regarding your pregnancy based on the documentation you provide. It is your responsibility to review the airline’s requirements before travelling. Please note that guidelines may differ if you are carrying twins or if there are any complications in your pregnancy.
We collated some of the guidelines from the larger airlines servicing London airports for your convenience (as of November 2025):
At Spital Clinic, we specialise in women’s health, providing expert, personalised care throughout your pregnancy journey. Our female GPs address various health concerns in a supportive environment, ensuring you feel comfortable and understood. We prioritise regular gynaecological check-ups to monitor reproductive health and detect potential issues early. For pregnant women, we offer initial assessments, referrals, and guidance to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
In partnership with the London Pregnancy Clinic (LPC), we deliver top-tier care for pregnancy, fertility, and gynaecological services. Our collaboration includes obstetricians, fetal medicine specialists, and midwives. We support you through every pregnancy stage with services like pregnancy scans and NIPT blood tests. Comprehensive fertility services, including assessments and treatment plans, are also available. For additional support and guidance during your pregnancy, please reach out to Spital Clinic. We are here to help ensure a healthy and comfortable experience for you and your baby.
Urgent Care: Contact your midwife or local maternity unit immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
You have a question about Pregnancy? We have an answer.
Yes, flying during pregnancy is generally considered safe for most women, particularly during the second trimester when symptoms such as nausea and fatigue have usually improved. Airlines and healthcare professionals agree that flying is usually low-risk if you have an uncomplicated pregnancy, although you should always check with your midwife or doctor before travelling. Staying hydrated, walking around the cabin when possible, and wearing compression stockings can help reduce the risk of swelling or deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) during flights.
Most airlines allow pregnant passengers to fly up to 36 weeks with a single pregnancy and up to 32 weeks with twins or multiples, although exact cut-offs can vary between airlines. After 28 weeks, many airlines require a ‘fit to fly’ letter confirming your due date and that you are medically safe to travel. Always check your specific airline’s pregnancy policy before booking, as rules differ and documentation may be required at the airport.
A doctor’s note or fit-to-fly letter is often required once you are past 28 weeks gestation, and it must confirm your expected due date and that you are fit for air travel. Some airlines have their own medical forms that must be completed by a GP or midwife (must be in person), while others accept a simple written statement on official letterhead. Carry the letter in your hand luggage, as airline staff may request to see it at check-in or the boarding gate.
For healthy pregnancies, the risks of flying are generally low, but there are still considerations to keep in mind. Long periods of sitting can increase the risk of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), so wearing compression stockings and staying mobile is recommended. Dehydration, swelling, and discomfort may be more noticeable during pregnancy, and women with complications—such as high blood pressure, placenta praevia, or a history of preterm labour—should seek medical advice before flying. Airlines may restrict travel if there are known medical risks.
Flying after giving birth is possible, but guidance varies depending on whether you had a vaginal birth or caesarean section. Most airlines recommend waiting at least one week after a straightforward vaginal birth and two weeks after a caesarean, although your recovery, mobility, and any complications should be considered. New mothers are also advised to stay hydrated, move regularly, and ensure the baby is fit to travel, as newborns may have additional restrictions depending on the airline.
According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.
"Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."
"I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"
"The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."
"I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
