How to prepare for a flight and fly fit

Make sure your carry-on bag includes essentials such as travel documents, medications, snacks, and a refillable bottle. Keep valuables and important items which you might need during your flight in your cabin bag, not checked luggage.

Wear loose, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes to accommodate potential swelling during the flight. For longer flights, consider wearing compression stockings, which are specially designed to fit tighter than regular socks. They gently squeeze your legs, improving blood flow and reducing pain and swelling, while also lowering the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other circulation problems.

Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol before your flight, opting instead for a light, nutritious meal to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

On longer flights, take time to stretch, walk around the cabin when possible, and perform simple leg exercises in your seat to reduce the risk of DVT.

Airplane cabins have low humidity, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the flight. Sugary drinks can exacerbate dehydration and lead to headaches.

Use an eye mask, neck pillow, and noise-cancelling headphones to enhance comfort and sleep quality during longer flights. Try to disconnect from distractions to relax fully. Consider reading that book you’ve been meaning to pick up, or download your favourite songs, movies, or series to enjoy. Focusing on what helps you unwind will make your flight more convenient and relaxing.

Both can contribute to dehydration and disrupt your sleep patterns. Alcohol, being a diuretic, can quickly lead to dehydration. It causes your body to remove fluids from your blood through your renal system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, at a much quicker rate than other liquids. Try to minimize your alcohol intake before and during the flight.

If you feel unwell, have a cold, or are sneezing, wear a face mask to protect other passengers. Being considerate of their health is crucial.

Always carry your medications in your cabin baggage to ensure you have access to them at all times.

If you take medication upon waking, make sure to stick to your routine, even if you have an early morning flight.

Use alarms or reminders on your phone to ensure you don't miss a dose, especially during longer flights or while crossing time zones.

If you are flying with a cold, your ears may also become blocked during the flight. Consider bringing throat lozenges or other soothing remedies and drinking some hot beverage.

If you have a visible physical disability or have recently undergone any surgery, obtain a fit-to-fly certificate from your doctor, issued within 6 days of your flight. This certificate is necessary to confirm your ability to travel safely.

Flying after surgery carries risks and it is not recommended immediately after an operation. Be cautious when considering flying, and wait for the necessary amount of time to pass before boarding a plane.

Let our well-trained crew know, so they can provide extra attention and ensure that you travel in compliance with regulations. If you feel unwell during the flight, report it immediately to the crew.

If you are 28-34 weeks pregnant, you need to obtain a fit-to-fly certificate from your doctor. If you do not have this Fit-to-Fly certificate, you will need to fill out a Disclaimer form by the gate. Flying is not permitted after 34 weeks of pregnancy, and for twin pregnancies, flying is only allowed until week 32.