From the Guidelines
Conditions that are not fit to fly include active cardiac conditions, recent surgeries, uncontrolled psychiatric disorders, pregnancy beyond certain gestational ages, infectious diseases, severe anemia, recent stroke or TIA, ear or sinus infections, and decompression sickness. These conditions can worsen during flight due to hypoxia, gas expansion in body cavities, immobility leading to blood clots, and potential for disease transmission 1. Some specific conditions that are not fit to fly include:
- Active cardiac conditions like recent heart attack or unstable angina
- Respiratory issues such as severe COPD or pneumothorax
- Recent surgeries (especially abdominal, thoracic, or neurological procedures within 10-14 days)
- Uncontrolled psychiatric disorders
- Pregnancy beyond 36 weeks for domestic flights or 32 weeks for international flights
- Infectious diseases like tuberculosis or COVID-19
- Severe anemia with hemoglobin below 8.5 g/dL
- Recent stroke or TIA
- Ear or sinus infections
- Decompression sickness It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before flying if you have any medical concerns, as some conditions may be permitted with medical clearance or supplemental oxygen 1.
From the Research
Conditions Not Fit to Fly
The following conditions may not be fit to fly due to the unique physiologic challenges posed by air travel:
- Pulmonary conditions where the patient is unable to walk 50 m or has oxygen requirements exceeding 4 L per minute 2
- Recent surgery, casting, ear, nose, and throat issues, or dental issues due to the risk of trapped gases expanding at high altitude 2
- Pneumothorax, bronchogenic cyst, and severe pulmonary hypertension 3
- Chronic lung disease with very poor performance status or severe lung disease 4
- Recent thoracic surgery or unresolved pneumothorax, with recommended delay of air travel for 1 to 3 weeks 5
Additional Considerations
Patients with the following conditions may require special consideration or evaluation before flying: