The airline has warned passengers if they don’t have these documents, they may not be able to fly
The airline has said it “can’t carry expectant mothers” who are over a certain week(Image: Getty )
Jet2 has issued a stark warning for some passengers, stressing that it is essential to have the correct paperwork in place or risk being unable to travel and missing out on their holiday. The airline enforces restrictions from 27 and 35 weeks of pregnancy, and passengers who do not meet these requirements may be refused boarding at the airport.
According to the Jet2holiday website, the airline does not permit travel after 35 weeks for single pregnancies or after 33 weeks in the case of multiple pregnancies such as twins. From 27 weeks of pregnancy onwards, passengers must have a doctor’s certificate that includes specific requirement details.
The airline cautions that failure to present the correct documentation may result in being denied boarding. It states: “We can’t carry expectant mothers after the end of the 35th week of pregnancy in the case of a single pregnancy, or the end of the 33rd week of pregnancy in the case of multiple pregnancies (for example, twins).
“After the end of the 27th week of pregnancy, expectant mothers must provide us with a doctor’s certificate confirming their stage of pregnancy and that they are fit to fly, failing which, we reserve the right to refuse carriage.”
In its FAQ section under further information about pregnancy, the airline reassures travellers: “If you’re pregnant you can travel with us, but additional conditions may apply depending on the type of the pregnancy and the stage at which you’re planning to fly.”
It also states: “If you’re travelling while pregnant, you’ll need a fit to fly certificate.” Passengers will need to provide one of the following documents:
- A Fit to Fly certificate that’s provided by a doctor or midwife on surgery/hospital headed paper, signed and dated within seven days of your departure and 16 days of your return.
- A pregnancy Fit to Fly certificate provided by us and completed by your medical professional. Please make sure this is signed and stamped for verification purposes, as this certificate will not be valid if incomplete.
Another section on the official Jet2 website under ‘Fitness to Fly’ states: “A fit to fly certificate may be needed for certain medical conditions” noting you can find out more by calling them on 0333 006 8798.
It also explains: “If you need a fit to fly certificate, it must be provided by a doctor on surgery/hospital headed paper and be dated within 30 days of departure.”
The NHS has also issued guidance for pregnant women planning to travel by air, including those flying with Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair and other airlines. It says that while air travel is generally safe for both mother and baby, it is important to consult a doctor or midwife before flying.
It advises: “Flying isn’t harmful to you or your baby, but discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your midwife or doctor before you fly.
“The chance of going into labour is naturally higher after 37 weeks (around 32 weeks if you’re carrying twins), and some airlines won’t let you fly towards the end of your pregnancy. Check with the airline for their policy on this.
“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. You may have to pay for the letter and wait several weeks before you get it.”
On longer journeys, it adds: “Long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis (DVT)). If you fly, drink plenty of water and move about regularly – every 30 minutes or so. You can buy a pair of graduated compression or support stockings from the pharmacy, which will help reduce leg swelling.”
