Holidays and travel

25) Fit to fly?

Not everyone will need a medical assessment before they go on holiday.
However, it is important to speak to your GP or specialist before booking a flight.

  • There are a variety of ways in which you may be assessed to decide if you are fit to fly.
  • The airline may also have their own medical paperwork that needs to be completed.

Medical clearance is usually required if you:

  • Have an existing unstable medical condition.
  • Have a respiratory or heart condition.
  • Use medical equipment, including oxygen, which will be required onboard.
  • Have had a recent illness, surgery, injury or hospitalisation.
  • Are travelling for medical reasons, or to receive medical treatment.

Not all airlines use the same paperwork or tests so it is important that you check this with them. Do this before you make a booking so that you can be sure that you will be allowed to fly.