A last holiday together before the birth, or a visit to family abroad: many pregnant women fly, and with an uncomplicated pregnancy that is usually not a problem. There are, however, airline deadlines and a few health points to bear in mind, as well as some destinations best avoided at this time. Talk to your gynaecologist before any flight.
Which week, which rule?
Airlines set their own limits for carrying pregnant passengers. These values are common:
| Period | What usually applies |
|---|---|
| Up to week 27 | Flying without special documents, take your Mutterpass |
| From week 28 | A doctor’s certificate that you are fit to fly, often no more than a few days old |
| Until the end of week 36 | Last possible flight with one baby |
| Until the end of week 32 | Last possible flight with twins or more |
Some airlines set earlier limits. Think about the return flight too. What counts is the week of pregnancy on the day of the flight, not when you book. If you fly out in week 33 and stay two weeks, you are already in week 35 on the way back.
The best time to fly
In the first trimester many women suffer from nausea and tiredness. In the last, sitting for long periods becomes hard work and the airline deadlines draw closer. The second trimester, roughly weeks 14 to 28, is therefore the most comfortable time to travel for most.
Health on board
Blood clots: during pregnancy the blood clots more easily. On long flights the risk of thrombosis is therefore somewhat higher. Move your legs regularly, drink plenty of water and get up more often. Well-fitting compression stockings are strongly recommended on long-haul flights.
Radiation: at high altitude the natural radiation from space is slightly stronger than on the ground. For occasional holiday flights this is considered harmless. It can be different for people who fly a great deal for work.
Seat belt: fasten the lap belt below your bump, across your hips. That way it does not press on the baby in turbulence.
Seat: an aisle seat is ideal. You get up more easily and reach the toilet without climbing over anyone. Pregnant women are not allowed to sit in exit rows, by the way.
Destinations best avoided
Not every destination is suitable during pregnancy. Experts advise pregnant women not to travel to areas with the Zika virus, because it can harm the unborn child. Regions with malaria are also best avoided at this time. The disease is often more severe during pregnancy, and not all medicines are allowed.
Some vaccinations recommended for long-haul travel must not be given during pregnancy. Get advice early, before you book a long-haul trip. Current health advice is on the website of the German Federal Foreign Office. If you hold another passport, your own government’s travel advice is worth a look too.
Check your insurance
Look at the terms of your travel health insurance. Some policies pay only limited amounts for treatment related to pregnancy and birth abroad, for example only up to a certain week. A premature birth abroad can be very expensive. If in doubt, ask your insurer.
Cancellation insurance is also worthwhile at this time. If complications make the trip impossible, cancelling is often covered. Check, though, whether a pregnancy that was already known is included.
Tips for a relaxed flight
- Choose short flights: destinations four or five hours away are more comfortable than a long-haul trip.
- Dress comfortably: loose clothing and flat shoes that still fit swollen feet.
- Pack snacks: small meals help against nausea.
- Be at the airport early: this avoids a rush at security and boarding.
- Know the hospital at your destination: note down a clinic near your accommodation before you go.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
