Prior Expectations
Before the recent updates, Ryanair had established clear guidelines for pregnant passengers. The airline allowed travel up to 28 weeks of pregnancy without a ‘fit to fly’ letter, while travel was prohibited beyond the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies. Similar policies were in place for Jet2, which did not carry expectant mothers after the end of the 35th week for single pregnancies.
Decisive Changes
As of March 9, 2026, Ryanair announced that certain passengers traveling with them and Jet2 would now require an additional document to board their flights. This change reflects a growing emphasis on passenger safety and compliance with health regulations. Ryanair continues to require a ‘fit to fly’ letter after 28 weeks of pregnancy, while Jet2 mandates a doctor’s certificate confirming the stage of pregnancy after the end of the 27th week.
Direct Effects on Passengers
The immediate effect of these changes means that expectant mothers must ensure they have the necessary documentation before traveling. For Ryanair, travel is not permitted beyond the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies, and for twin or triplet pregnancies, a ‘fit to fly’ letter is required between 28-32 weeks, with travel not allowed beyond the end of the 32nd week. Jet2 has similar restrictions, reinforcing the need for passengers to be informed about their travel eligibility.
Expert Perspectives
Industry experts note that these updates align Ryanair’s policies more closely with those of easyJet, which allows travel until the end of the 35th week for single pregnancies and the end of the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. This alignment may help streamline travel for expectant mothers across different airlines.
Ryanair has advised passengers, “If you have any doubts about your suitability to fly or if you have had any complications while pregnant, please consult your doctor before booking your flights.” This statement underscores the airline’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers.
Jet2 also emphasizes its policy, stating, “We are not able to carry expectant mothers after: the end of the 35th week of pregnancy in the case of a single pregnancy; or – the end of the 33rd week of pregnancy in the case of multiple pregnancies.” This consistency among airlines may provide clarity for travelers.
In addition to these policy changes, Ryanair and Ryanair Sun are currently challenging the European Commission’s approval of German state aid for Condor, which may impact the competitive landscape of air travel in Europe. The case, lodged on January 20, 2026, reflects ongoing regulatory scrutiny in the aviation sector.
Overall, these updates signify a shift in how airlines manage travel for pregnant passengers, with an increased focus on safety and regulatory compliance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further implications of these changes on flight availability or pricing.