Air Travel

If you are receiving medical care, it is advisable to consult with your GP about any plans to travel by air.

The environment within an aeroplane during flight may be challenging for individuals with certain health conditions. Humidity is relatively low and conditions are often noisy and cramped with long periods of sitting. Passengers are also subjected to reduced atmospheric pressure.

Inform your airline of your particular needs in good time and check the policy of your airline. It is also a good idea to arrive with plenty of time prior to flying.

Remember that there are often long walking distances within airports. With sufficient notice, airports can usually make a wheelchair available.

If you have a colostomy or ileostomy, it’s important to eat carefully the day before you travel, and avoid spicy food, fizzy drinks, alcohol and foods which cause wind. When flying, the air pressure changes may cause problems.

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Review Date:  March 2010