First and foremost, once you get to about 24 weeks, it’s advisable to get a doctor’s letter certifying your due date and that you are fit to fly. Most airlines don’t require anything until 28 weeks, but every woman shows differently, and some women are questioned for proof upon check-in. Here’s a quick rundown of the rules for various Asia-based carriers.
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#1 Singapore Airlines
No certification required prior to 28 weeks, but a doctor’s letter is required between 29-36 weeks for uncomplicated single pregnancies, and the letter should be dated within 10 days of your first flight. Mamas with uncomplicated multiple pregnancies are restricted from flying after 32 weeks, while single pregnancy mamas can fly up to 36 weeks.
#2 AirAsia
Any time up to 27 weeks, a pregnant passenger must sign a limited liability statement at check-in absolving the airline of any liabilities. Between 28 and 34 weeks, a doctor’s medical certificate dated within 30 days of departure is required along with the liability release form. Mamas cannot travel after 35 weeks.
#3 Jetstar
A doctor’s letter is required from 28 weeks onward, dated within 10 days of departure, stating the estimated date of delivery (if it’s a single or multiple pregnancy), and whether there are any complications. On flights under 4 hours, single pregnancy mamas are permitted to fly up to 40 weeks (it’s restricted to 36 weeks for longer flights). Multiple pregnancy mamas can fly on flights under 4 hours through 36 weeks, and on longer flights until 32 weeks. Looking for some extra space? Bear in mind that mamas 28 weeks pregnant and beyond cannot sit in the exit row.
#4 Tigerair
Travel is restricted beyond 34 weeks, while a doctor’s letter is required between 30 and 34 weeks. The letter must be dated within 14 days of departure.
Tips:
- Staying comfortable during the flight: It goes without saying if you can get yourself a business class seat, do it! There’s no better time to cash in those miles if you have them because your back and legs will never ache more. Every extra inch of space to recline and stretch out is so worth it.
- Premium Economy is another good option, and depending on the airline may cost just a couple hundred dollars more than coach – again, best money you’ll ever spend.
- Take up an aisle seat. No matter what class you fly, try to get an aisle seat because chances are you’ll be peeing a lot. It’s also good to get up and stretch your legs frequently, and lots of mamas recommend wearing tights or compression socks to help avoid deep vein thrombosis.
- Request for extra pillows as soon as you get on the plane, and depending on your carrier make sure to bring along plenty of water. Consider bringing along some healthy snacks too because airplane food is always a gamble!
- Talk to your baby and massage your bump, as both are great means of bonding – plus it’s actually kind of exciting to tell your baby that you’re on an airplane taking a trip together! I also brought along an extra pair of earphones to play music for my bump – I figured it would be more pleasant than the noisy whirr of the engine!
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Photo credits: Main, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.
