Fitness to Fly

Important Information Regarding Fitness to Fly – No Certificates Issued

Please note that our practice does not issue certificates of fitness to fly.

General Advice:

Assessing a patient’s suitability for air travel is outside the scope of services provided by NHS General Medical Services (GMS), and GPs are neither specifically trained nor insured to provide this kind of assessment. Airlines are ultimately responsible for deciding whether a passenger can travel, and they often have their own medical teams who may be able to provide guidance in complex situations.

If you have a health condition that might affect your ability to fly, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) recommends sharing relevant medical information with your airline as early as possible. This allows the airline’s medical advisors to assess your circumstances appropriately.

Airlines typically require the following details:

• A summary of your medical condition, including how severe or stable it is
• A list of current medications
• Any relevant details regarding your mobility

This information can be submitted either over the phone or using a structured document known as a MEDIF (Medical Information Form), which is designed to streamline communication between healthcare professionals and airline medical departments. The MEDIF form can usually be obtained by contacting your airline’s medical or special assistance team, or by visiting their website. In some cases, a medical examination may be necessary to complete this form.

While airlines make the final decision on allowing a passenger to fly, providing comprehensive and timely medical details can assist in making an informed and safe choice.

You can request a copy of your medical summary from our practice if required. Please be aware that we are not able to assess or declare your fitness to fly. For further medical travel advice, you may wish to consult a private travel health service.

More guidance on this subject is available on the Civil Aviation Authority’s website:
CAA Guidance – Assessing Fitness to Fly