Changes in Travel Policies
Previously, Ryanair’s travel policies for expectant mothers were somewhat lenient, allowing travel up to 28 weeks of pregnancy without any additional documentation. However, recent updates have introduced new requirements for certain passengers, particularly those traveling beyond this threshold.
New Requirements
As of March 9, 2026, passengers traveling with Ryanair and Jet2 will now require an additional document to board their flights. For Ryanair, travel is permitted up to 28 weeks of pregnancy, but a ‘fit to fly’ letter is mandated after that point. Furthermore, travel is not allowed beyond the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies.
In contrast, Jet2 has established that expectant mothers cannot travel after the end of the 35th week for single pregnancies and requires a doctor’s certificate confirming the stage of pregnancy after the end of the 27th week. This certificate must be dated within 7 days of the outbound date and 16 days for the inbound date.
Expert Perspectives
EasyJet’s policy allows travel until the end of the 35th week for single pregnancies and the end of the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Ryanair has stated, “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 advice underscores the importance of medical consultation for expectant mothers considering air travel.
Both Ryanair and Jet2 have similar policies regarding pregnant passengers, which reflects a broader trend in the airline industry to prioritize the health and safety of expectant mothers. This alignment may lead to increased scrutiny of travel policies across airlines.
Legal Challenges
In addition to these policy updates, Ryanair and Ryanair Sun are currently challenging the European Commission’s approval of German state aid for Condor Flugdienst GmbH. The case, lodged on January 20, 2026, highlights ongoing regulatory dynamics within the European aviation sector.
The European Commission had previously authorized aid for Condor on April 28, 2025, which may have implications for market competition and operational strategies among airlines.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential outcomes of this legal challenge, but it is clear that Ryanair is actively engaging in both operational adjustments and regulatory disputes as part of its strategic framework.