Flying while pregnant? What you need to know

What happens if you give birth on an airplane? You wouldn't expect it, but it does happen. A baby being born prematurely is not extremely rare, but a baby being born at 10 km altitude certainly is. Everything you need to know about airplane babies is revealed in this article.

Which nationality?

The nationality of a baby born on an airplane depends on two different principles. In one approach, the baby receives the nationality of the parents, regardless of where the birth takes place.

In the other approach, the nationality is determined by the location of birth. Each country chooses which method it employs.

If the airplane is flying over Spain during the birth, the baby may be entitled to Spanish nationality, at least under the second approach. In very exceptional cases, nationality is determined based on the country where the airplane is registered.

Rules for flying during pregnancy

Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly until 32 to 36 weeks, depending on their specific policies.

It is advisable to always consult your doctor before flying, especially in the later months of pregnancy. Some airlines may request a doctor's note.

If it happens…

While the crew will typically look for a doctor on board, they can take the appropriate steps in an emergency.

If a baby decides to be born earlier, the crew is trained with the basic knowledge to assist.

The equipment on board is limited, but a birth can take place on the airplane, though this is not without risks.

Flying with a newborn baby

After birth, babies are officially allowed to fly if they are at least 7 days old, provided there were no issues during the delivery.

However, I would advise you to wait to fly with a baby until they are about 12 weeks old. This allows both the parents and the baby time to recover from the birth.

The baby belt

If your baby is younger than 2 years old, they cannot travel in their own seat but must sit on the lap of an adult. The crew provides a special belt that attaches to your seatbelt.

Did you know that only one child per row is allowed to travel on a lap? Why? There is only one extra oxygen mask available above the row.

Strollers and carriages on the airplane

Traveling with a baby also means considering strollers and carriages. Most airlines allow you to bring a stroller or baby carriage for free.

Often, you can take your stroller all the way to the gate. Just before you board the plane, it will be loaded into the cargo hold.

Free travel?

Think carefully before booking a flight if you are pregnant. A birth on board is not without risks and is incredibly rare.

Worldwide, there have been about a hundred babies born on airplanes.

Should they all be allowed to fly for free for the rest of their lives?

By: Rico Valkenborgh | February 11, 2025