Flying is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel, but it’s not always safe for everyone. Certain medical conditions make flying risky—both for your own health and for the safety of other passengers and crew. In some cases, airlines will refuse boarding to passengers with these conditions, while in others, medical professionals strongly advise against air travel until you’re cleared.
If you’re planning a trip, it’s important to understand which medical conditions you should not fly with and why. Here are the key ones to know.
Common Medical Conditions That Make Flying Unsafe
1. Infectious Diseases
If you have a contagious illness like influenza, chickenpox, measles, or another infectious disease, you should avoid flying until you’ve fully recovered and your doctor has given clearance. Not only can flying worsen your symptoms, but you risk infecting other passengers in a closed cabin environment.
2. Late-Stage Pregnancy
Airlines often restrict travel for passengers in the final weeks of pregnancy. Flying during late pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots due to reduced mobility and cabin pressure changes. Always check airline policies and consult your doctor before booking a flight.
3. Heart Conditions
Recent heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled heart failure, or severe chest pain at rest are strong reasons to avoid flying. Cabin pressure, high altitude, and reduced oxygen levels can put significant strain on your cardiovascular system.
4. Respiratory Diseases
Any lung condition—whether chronic (like COPD) or temporary—can make air travel dangerous. If you experience shortness of breath at rest, you may struggle in the lower-oxygen environment of an airplane cabin. Some passengers can fly with supplemental oxygen if their doctor approves.
5. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Prolonged sitting and reduced mobility during a flight can increase clotting risks, and cabin pressure changes can make the condition worse.
6. Unstable Mental Health Conditions
While many passengers with psychiatric disorders can travel safely, flying may be risky if symptoms are currently unstable. In some cases, an escort or special accommodations are required.
Additional Health Concerns That May Delay Air Travel
Even if your condition isn’t on the primary list, certain pre-existing medical issues may require medical clearance before you fly, including:
- Severe hypertension
- Asthma or chronic lung disease
- Epilepsy
- Cancer or anemia
- Recovery from recent surgery or hospitalization
If you’re unsure, consult your physician to determine whether flying is safe for you.
When Commercial Flights Aren’t an Option
Sometimes, travelers develop serious medical issues abroad and can’t safely return home on a commercial airline. In these cases, air ambulance services can provide a safe, medically equipped alternative.
REVA specializes in transporting patients with medical conditions that make commercial air travel unsafe. Whether you need to travel across the state or across the world, our private air ambulances are staffed with highly experienced medical and aviation teams to ensure you receive continuous care in transit.
Fly Safely With REVA Air Ambulance
If you or a loved one has a medical condition that prevents safe commercial flying, REVA can help you get home for treatment. We manage the entire process—from coordinating with your medical providers to ensuring you arrive safely at your destination—so you can focus on recovery.
Request an online quote today to learn how REVA can help you travel safely when commercial flights aren’t an option.
FAQs About Medical Conditions Unsafe for Flight
What medical conditions make it unsafe to fly?
Flying can be unsafe if you have conditions like recent heart attack or stroke, serious respiratory disease, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), unstable mental health conditions, late-stage pregnancy, or an active infectious disease. Always consult a doctor before traveling.
Why are some medical conditions not compatible with flying?
Air travel can lower oxygen levels, change cabin pressure, and limit mobility, which can worsen certain health problems. For some passengers, these changes can cause life-threatening complications mid-flight.
Can I fly after recent surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery and your recovery. Many people need to wait days or weeks before flying, as cabin pressure changes and prolonged sitting can increase risks like blood clots or wound complications. Always get medical clearance first.
What should I do if I can’t fly commercially due to a medical condition?
If your condition makes commercial air travel unsafe, an air ambulance like REVA can provide medical transport with onboard healthcare professionals to ensure your safety until you reach your destination.
Can pregnant women fly?
Yes, but most airlines limit air travel during the final weeks of pregnancy due to increased risks. Always check airline policies and get your doctor’s approval before flying.