Are you fit to fly? A helpful guide

How do you know if you are medically ready to fly before heading to the airport.

It is important to be declared “fit to fly” by a medical practitioner if you have a pre-existing condition or an illness that could affect others on the flight.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know to ensure you are fit to fly.

1. What does ‘fit to fly’ really mean?

Airline and insurance providers need to know that it is medically safe for you to take a flight. You don’t have to state this when booking a flight, but if you know of any problems, you should speak to the airline in advance, as staff do have the right to refuse boarding to anyone who looks to be unwell at the time.

You may not be allowed to fly if it is clear, you have a condition that may worsen during the flight or a contagious illness that can infect other passengers. If there is cause for any concern, you may be asked to provide a fit-to-fly certificate from your doctor.

These issues may seem like extra admin to deal with, but they are put in place to ensure all passengers are kept safe from a medical perspective. Restrictions do vary between airlines, so if you have any specific concerns, it’s worth checking before you book. Sites usually have a medical advisory service that can provide more details.

2. Discuss when you might need a fit to fly letter or certification from your GP

You may be required to provide a fit-to-fly certificate in order to be granted medical clearance by your airline. If your condition is stable, then it is very unlikely, but you could be asked if you fall under the following:

●  You’ve recently been discharged from hospital

●  You’re in recovery from an operation

●  You’re over 28 weeks pregnant

●  You’re travelling for medical reasons (i.e. going for treatment or surgery)  

Each airline will have different requirements for fit-to-fly certificates, so always check the fine print before booking.

3. Flying after surgery or hospital stays

Generally, it is best to consult your doctor about flying after surgery, as the exact timeframe depends on the type and complexity of the procedure and your response to it.

Some operations will be less but it’s often advisable to wait at least 7-10 days before flying after undergoing major surgery.

4. How to get a fit to fly certificate in Ireland

You will need to contact your GP or consultant in Ireland in order to receive a fit-to-fly certificate. They will need to give you a medical assessment to determine if you are indeed fit enough to travel by air - and will issue a certificate if necessary.

The certificate itself could include a number of things such as a confirmation of fitness, details of your medical condition, any precautions and recommendations for travel as well as any medications or equipment required.

5. What airlines check – and why it’s crucial

Irish airlines will check that fit-to-fly certificates adhere to regulations set by aviation authorities such as the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) as well as prioritising the well-being of other passengers and your own medical condition.

If you get sick before a flight, contact your airline as soon as you can - ideally with a doctor’s note - if you want to cancel your flight and rebook for another time. You will also need to contact your travel insurance provider if you are making a claim.

Airlines at Irish airports like Dublin, Cork and Shannon have specific rules for providing oxygen onboard or those at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVP) as a result of a flight.

6. Why travel insurance is essential – especially if you have a condition

Travel insurance is essential - especially if you have a medical condition - to ensure you have financial protection for medical emergencies as well as any issues with your trip itself.

It is very important to declare pre-existing conditions too as this could cause you problems further down the line if you don’t. The risks of flying without suitable cover are not worth the small price to pay to get yourself protected.

You will need to be fit to travel to purchase travel insurance. If you intend to travel by plane, this means you must be fit to fly. You will only need certificated documentation that you are fit to fly in the event of you needing to make a claim.

7. Preparing for your flight: a fit to fly checklist

Before your flight you may want to consider using a fit-to-fly checklist:

●  Check if your medication needs refrigeration

●  Pack prescriptions in hand luggage

●  Have your fit-to-fly certificate ready

●  Check with your airline for medical support needs

8. What happens if you’re deemed unfit to fly?

If the unthinkable happens and you are deemed unfit to fly, you are likely to be denied boarding and potentially face up to the costs of rescheduling or missing your flight - depending on the airline’s policy and the circumstances.

Travel insurance can provide financial cover if you want to rebook or get a refund so make sure sort your cover when you first book your trip.

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