How long are you allowed to fly when pregnant - Plan your trip with confidence

Considering air travel while pregnant is completely normal - and for many, it's perfectly feasible. But the answer to "how long can you fly while pregnant" depends on three things: how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is uncomplicated, and the specific airline's rules. Below, you'll find a practical guide to help you plan with peace of mind and avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in.

Many pregnant women can fly for much of their pregnancy if there are no complications and if their doctor or midwife has not advised against it. The second trimester is often experienced as the most comfortable period to travel, as nausea and fatigue may be less prominent for some, and the belly is typically not yet as heavy.

In the third trimester, there may be more restrictions - not necessarily because flying itself is "forbidden," but because the risk of sudden discomfort, swelling, or the need for assessment can be greater, and because many airlines have stricter rules closer to the due date.

Contact your doctor/midwife before booking or flying if you have experienced bleeding, severe pain, signs of premature birth, previous blood clots, high blood pressure, or other conditions that complicate the pregnancy. This is not to alarm you - but to ensure that you travel in the safest possible way.

It is typically the airline's own terms and conditions that determine how long you can fly while pregnant. Many airlines require documentation from around week 28 onwards, such as a doctor's or midwife's certificate with the due date and confirmation that the pregnancy is uncomplicated. Some also set an upper limit close to the due date, and rules may be stricter for twin pregnancies.

Your most important action here is simple: Check the rules with your airline before you travel, even if you have flown earlier in your pregnancy. Keep documentation both on paper and on your phone so you can show it quickly.

If you are asked for a "fit to fly" certificate, it is a good idea to ensure that it contains at least:

• Your name and date of birth (to match your passport)
• How far along you are (gestational week)
• Due date
• Confirmation that the pregnancy is deemed uncomplicated at the time of issue
• Date, stamp, and contact information from the doctor/midwife

Please note that some airlines may require the certificate to be issued within a certain number of days before departure.

Pregnancy itself increases the risk of blood clots, and prolonged sedentary travel can be an additional strain. You cannot eliminate the risk entirely, but you can do a lot to reduce it in practice.

• Get up regularly and move your legs and ankles during the flight
• Drink water continuously
• Preferably choose a seat where it is easier to get to the aisle
• Avoid tight clothing that constricts your stomach and groin

If you have previously had a blood clot or have particular risk factors, you should seek individual advice from healthcare professionals before flying.

To make it easy right before departure, you can use this short checklist:

• Check the airline's pregnancy rules (week limits and documentation)
• Book an aisle seat if possible
• Bring your health card/travel insurance information and relevant phone numbers
• Pack any documentation (doctor's/midwife's certificate) in your hand luggage
• Agree with your midwife/doctor on what to do if you experience symptoms before departure

Comfort is very important on a flight, especially when your body is changing. Many pregnant women prefer soft, flexible underwear without underwire and clothes that do not constrict the stomach.

A few products that may be relevant to consider for your trip are:

• Seamless Original Maternity Nursing Bra
• Maternity Support Belt

Sources (background for general advice): Statens Serum Institut (travel advice for pregnant women), If Travel Insurance (general descriptions of airline practices), Gravid.dk (practical travel advice).