Understanding what Fit-to-Fly Certificates are

Last updated on December 8th, 2023 at 10:16 am

If you’re one of the many holidaymakers jetting off – you may need a fit-to-fly certificate if you have a pre-existing medical condition.  Below, we’ve detailed what a fit-to-fly certificate is and when it is necessary.

What are Fit-to-Fly certificates and when are they necessary?

Standard Fit-to-Fly certificates are proof that a GP has deemed it safe for you to fly. It means a GP assessed your pre-existing medical conditions believes your pre-existing medical conditions will not be adversely affected by flying.

Airlines may require a standard Fit-to-Fly Certificate if you are:

• recently discharged from a hospital
• recovering from an operation
• more than 28 weeks pregnant
• travelling for medical reasons

Certificates may be necessary for travellers with a wide range of conditions – from broken bones to infectious diseases. So, you may want to consult the airline as far in advance as possible.
Pregnant women will need a certificate to travel with most airlines after the 28th week of pregnancy. Either your GP or midwife will need to confirm that:

• you are healthy
• your pregnancy is normal
• the expected date of delivery

Some airlines may also require you and/or your GP to complete a more in-depth form about your condition. British Airways are one of those airlines, and often seek clarification on whether you travel with medical devices or need additional oxygen. So be sure to start this process far in advance of departure for peace of mind.

The cost of a Fit-to-Fly Certificate

The cost of a Fit-to-Fly Certificate is determined by your GP surgery. The price can differ significantly depending on your region.

These fees may be available on your surgery’s website but typically range from around £20-40.

The British Medical Association (BMA) publishes a list of suggested fees which doctors can use to price their services.

How long is your Fit-to-Fly Certificate valid for?

Your certificate must indicate that you are Fit-to-Fly at the time of your trip. So a letter from six months ago may not be suitable.

If you suffer from a long-term complaint then this certificate will probably need to be updated each time you travel. As your condition may have changed, the airline could refuse to allow you to board.

Hopefully, we’ve cleared up any questions that you might have!

Whether you have an existing policy or are looking to buy new travel insurance for medical conditions with enhanced cover for Coronavirus, we can help.

How to travel with confidence in 2022

Now that covid restrictions have eased across the UK and in many places abroad, travel is back on the agenda. So, once you have your fit-to-fly certificate sorted – here are a few guides to help you plan everything else.

• Guide to booking your 2022 holidays
• What to expect when you arrive at your destination
• Pre-travel checklist 

Author

Written by Lydia Crispin, MA Content Creator at AllClear
Edited by Letitia Smith, M.Sc. Content Manager at AllClear

1 Based on research carried out by YouGov on behalf of AllClear on 26 October 2021 among a nat rep sample of 2,011 adults. The survey was conducted online.

Article sources:

• Civil Aviation Authority
• British Medical Association
• Medical Protection

The information in this blog post is not intended to replace professional medical advice. It is a general overview of a broad medical care topic. Blog posts are not tailored to one person’s specific medical requirements, diagnosis or treatment. If you do notice symptoms or you require medical advice, you should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider to obtain professional medical help. Read through your disclaimer for more information.