A domestic flight scheduled to depart from Chengdu, Sichuan, faced significant disruption earlier this week after an expectant mother reportedly refused to comply with airline policy regarding late-term pregnancy travel, resulting in a 90-minute delay. The incident, which took place on Monday, November 12, 2025, involved a Tibet Airlines service traveling from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) to Shijiazhuang, Hebei.
The controversy arose after the passenger, who was allegedly beyond the permitted gestational period for air travel without stringent medical clearance, attempted to board. Despite extensive negotiations by the cabin crew and highly visible online footage showing the confrontation near the aircraft’s entrance, the individual reportedly remained seated, delaying the flight’s timely departure. Law enforcement eventually intervened to facilitate the passenger’s disembarkation, allowing the service to continue its journey.
Understanding Airline Pregnancy Travel Policies
Airlines worldwide maintain strict protocols for expectant mothers to ensure both the safety of the mother and child, and to mitigate the risks associated with in-flight medical emergencies. Following the incident, Tibet Airlines clarified its specific guidelines for pregnant travelers.
The carrier’s customer service department confirmed that expectant mothers beyond 35 weeks of gestation are prohibited from flying on their services. This policy aligns with industry standards aimed at preventing unexpected deliveries in the air, which pose serious logistical and medical challenges.
For those travelers who fall in a transitional window, specific documentation is required:
- 32 to 35 Weeks: Passengers must present current medical certification from an approved healthcare professional. This certificate must confirm fitness to fly and specify the estimated date of delivery. Travelers must also complete and sign mandatory risk acknowledgment forms provided by the airline.
- Under 32 Weeks: Travel is generally permitted without restriction, provided there are no other underlying medical contraindications documented by a physician.
Impact and Compensation
The two-and-a-half-hour delay was officially attributed to passenger-related circumstances. While the flight eventually departed, the airline confirmed that it would not be providing compensation to the other affected travelers. Typically, carriers differentiate between delays caused by operational issues (e.g., maintenance or staffing) and those stemming from external factors or passenger actions, often limiting compensation liability for the latter.
This event serves as a crucial reminder for all travelers, particularly those with specific medical requirements, to meticulously review and adhere to airline regulations well in advance of their travel dates. Failure to do so can lead not only to personal disruption but also inconvenience hundreds of fellow passengers.
Actionable Takeaways for Expectant Travelers
To ensure smooth air travel, pregnant individuals should take the following preemptive steps:
- Check Specific Carrier Rules: Policies vary between airlines; always check the specific rules of the operating carrier regarding gestational limits and required documentation.
- Obtain Necessary Documentation: If traveling between weeks 32 and 35, secure a signed “Fit to Fly” certificate dated close to the departure (usually within 72 hours).
- Consult Your Physician: Discuss your travel plans with your obstetrician, who can assess potential risks, especially concerning blood clot prevention and high-altitude effects.
Ultimately, adherence to these safety protocols is designed to protect all parties involved, ensuring a smoother journey for everyone on board.