By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Recently, a woman who concealed her pregnancy and gave birth mid-flight in an attempt to secure U.S. citizenship for her child made headlines. Though both mother and baby were safe and the story was initially hailed as heartwarming, the incident has sparked public debate over the risks to aviation safety and the waste of social resources involved in traveling abroad to give birth for citizenship. The topic has also drawn increased attention to important considerations for pregnant women flying—experts strongly advise against risking travel close to the due date or taking extreme measures to obtain foreign nationality, which can affect the rights and safety of many.
Pregnant women must follow airline regulations when flying—not only to ensure their own safety but also to avoid causing panic among flight attendants and passengers, which could impact flight safety. This image is unrelated to the news event. (Image provided by EVA Airways)
Most airlines prohibit pregnant women who are more than 32 weeks along from flying. If a pregnant woman needs to fly, she must provide a fitness-to-fly certificate and should not conceal her condition. Since airplanes do not have doctors or medical equipment on board, any pregnancy-related risks, discomfort, bleeding, or miscarriage that may occur during the flight are difficult to handle immediately. This is not only a matter of life safety but can also cause unnecessary panic on the plane. Regulations vary slightly by airline, so it’s essential to check in advance.
Additionally, if you must travel abroad while pregnant, it’s advised to avoid countries that require long-haul flights. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and research the destination country’s entry regulations for pregnant travelers in advance. Prepare for any potential discomfort you might experience and inform the airline. Avoid overly packed itineraries, and take diet and any necessary medications into careful consideration.
Regulations for Pregnant Women / New Mothers Flying with Major Domestic Airlines:
EVA Airways
1. Pregnant women who are 36 weeks or more along (within 4 weeks of the due date) and new mothers within 7 days postpartum are not allowed to fly. EVA Airways also does not accept pregnant women expecting multiples who are over 32 weeks along. For those between 12 to 4 weeks before the due date (28 to 36 weeks pregnant), or expecting multiples between 12 to 8 weeks before the due date (28 to 32 weeks pregnant), a MEDIF (fitness-to-fly) certificate completed by their attending physician within ten days before the flight and approved by EVA’s medical team is required. Please call to make a reservation at least 48 hours before departure.
2. To facilitate entry checks at your destination and smooth boarding, it’s recommended to carry a medical certificate from your attending physician indicating your due date.
3. Some countries have specific entry restrictions for pregnant women. It’s advised to inquire with the local office of the destination country before departure.
(Source: EVA Airways Official Website)
China Airlines
1. Pregnant women who are less than 32 weeks along or more than 8 weeks away from their due date and are in good health may fly as regular passengers.
2. Pregnant women who are more than 32 weeks along and are due to give birth within 4 to 8 weeks must fill out a liability waiver and provide a fitness-to-fly application signed by an obstetrician within 7 days of departure.
3. In principle, women due to give birth within 4 weeks are not accepted for boarding.
4. For safety reasons, women who have given birth within 14 days are not accepted for boarding.
(Source: China Airlines Official Website)
TransAsia Airways
1. Women who are less than 32 weeks pregnant, with no signs of premature labor, habitual miscarriage, or pregnancy complications, may generally be accepted for boarding.
2. Passengers who are 32 weeks pregnant or more must provide a “Fitness-to-Fly Certificate” issued by a qualified obstetrician, and the airline will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to allow boarding.
3. Immigration authorities in various countries have different restrictions for late-stage pregnancies. It is recommended to check the relevant regulations before traveling to avoid being denied entry.
4. If a passenger is uncertain about the course of pregnancy, the due date is unknown, or there is concern about complications during childbirth, a “Fitness-to-Fly Certificate” issued by a qualified obstetrician is required for boarding. The airline will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to accept the passenger.
5. The Fitness-to-Fly Certificate must be issued within seven days before the flight. There is no fixed format, but it must include: desired travel dates and suitable flight period, due date, key points to observe during the flight, and the handwritten signature of the passenger or their spouse.
(Source: TransAsia Airways Official Website)