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Posted On: 15 July 2020 07:00 pm
Updated On: 12 November 2020 10:18 am

Here's what you need to know if you are flying with Qatar Airways while pregnant

Khadiza Begum
Khadiza Begum
Content Writer
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Travel

Planning to travel during your pregnancy? With essential precautions, and armed with proper information, you are safe to travel during your pregnancy unless there's a complication or you're very close to term. Most of the airlines allow pregnant women to travel up to the eighth month, however, during the ninth month, you are permitted to travel if your health care provider approves.

Qatar Airways' website mentions some terms and conditions on travel while pregnant, scroll all the way down to know more!

When can I travel?

Prior to booking your ticket, Qatar Airways recommends that you visit your doctor and inquire about your fitness to fly the length of the trip you intend to take. Depending on the stage of your pregnancy and certain details, you may be required to carry certain medical forms. Check out below to know under what conditions you can travel from the 28th week to the end of the 35th week.

Source: Qatar Airways

When am I not allowed to travel?

You are not allowed to travel if you have multiple or complicated pregnancy in the 33rd week or beyond. For your own safety and the well being of your child, Qatar Airways will not accept expectant mothers who are pregnant from their 36th week or beyond.

What kind of information does a medical certificate include?

The medical certificate must be dated within 10 days of the scheduled date of the passenger's initial departing flight and remains valid for the entire journey. Medical certificates must be written in English and include the following information:

  • Patient's name and date of birth
  • Estimated date of delivery
  • Proposed dates of air travel
  • Confirmation of an uncomplicated single pregnancy or a multiple or complicated pregnancy
  • Confirmation that patient is "fit to travel" for the entire journey, including return (where applicable)
  • Date, stamp and contact details of a qualified doctor

Click here to download the FORM.

What is the purpose of the Medical Information Form (MEDIF)?

MEDIF is used for providing confidential information of passengers requiring special assistance. The information enables Qatar Airways Medical Centre to assess fitness of the passenger for air travel and to determine the use of medical equipment during travel e.g. stretcher, incubator, ventilator, etc. It is, therefore, necessary that information (MEDA 01 to 16) required on MEDIF - PART 2 needs to be completely filled out. Click here to download the FORM.

What is the difference between a Medical Report and a Medical Certificate?

A Medical Report is more detailed containing diagnosis, a summary of hospitalisation and recent general condition of the patient. A Medical Certificate includes a brief diagnosis and states whether the passenger is fit for air travel and must state if any precautionary measures are required.

When does Medical Certificate is sufficient and MEDIF is not required?

A Medical Certificate is required from a qualified doctor for the following.
1. Beginning of 29th week up to 32nd week of single uncomplicated pregnancy
2. Controlled Diabetic passengers on insulin injections.
3. Passengers having recent leg fracture with a HALF PLASTER CAST (i.e. boot type - applied below the knee).
4. In case of any recent communicable or infectious ailment. The certificate must state whether the passenger is fit or unfit to air travel and should include precautionary measure/s if necessary.
5. Passengers using portable kidney dialysis machines and/or any medical equipment on-board provided the medical condition is stable and to make advance notice at least 48 hours prior to the date of travel.
6. Medical Certificate must be dated within 10 days of the flight date.

Note that MEDIF forms must be written in English and filled and submitted to Qatar Airways no less than 48 hours and no more than 7 days prior to departure of each flight (outbound and return). In case no new MEDIF is required for the return journey then this will be indicated within Part 2 of this form as “Approved (full journey).”

Tips for a comfortable travel

  • For your comfort, request a bulkhead bassinet seat, or an aisle seat near a lavatory.
  • During check-in, ask for a seat with a leg rest to keep your legs elevated during the flight.