Medical clearance and oxygen
At airBaltic, we know that travelling with medical needs can take extra planning. We’re here to help you feel safe, supported, and ready – from booking your flight to landing at your destination.
Planning your flight
Do I need medical clearance before flying?
Some passengers need permission from airBaltic before they can fly. This is called medical clearance. You need to get it if you:
- have a disease that may be contagious and communicable;
- need special medical care or medical equipment during the flight;
- have a medical condition that could get worse in the air;
- can’t sit upright in a standard aircraft seat;
- have a full leg cast or a fused knee.
To get medical clearance, ask your doctor to fill out a medical information form and send it to airBaltic at least 2 working days before your flight.
Please note: If you have cerebral palsy, you don’t need to fill out a form or get medical clearance.
Medication tips
- Keep your medication in your cabin bag, not in checked baggage.
- Bring a doctor’s note (in English) for any medication or syringes.
- If your medication needs to stay cold, bring a cooling bag or thermos – there are no fridges on board.
- If you’re travelling with medical equipment like a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), CPAP machine, nebulizer, or automated external defibrillator (AED), here’s what you need to know.
Onboard medical oxygen
airBaltic provides medical oxygen for a fee of €100 per direction. To arrange this service, you must:
- let us know at least 2 working days before your flight;
- send us a medical information form from your doctor showing how much oxygen you need;
- arrange your own oxygen supply at the airport and during any layovers, as we provide oxygen only on board;
- travel with a qualified medical professional if you need oxygen during the flight.
Who can travel with you
If you need help during the flight, you must be accompanied by a capable assistant. This person can be a nurse, doctor, or any other responsible adult, depending on your medical condition and needs. This person must:
- be 18 years or older;
- not require assistance themselves (no reduced mobility);
- not also be responsible for assisting another passenger (like a baby or another person needing assistance);
- sit next to you during the flight.
Standard ticket terms apply.
Seat assignment
You’ll be given a seat that is not next to an emergency exit. If you’re travelling with a medical personnel, we’ll do our best to seat you together.
At the airport
Assistance on the ground
Let us know in advance if you need help at the airport. Airport staff can assist with:
- boarding and getting off the aircraft;
- getting to and from your gate, the airport exit, or your connecting flight.
Please note: We cannot provide full-time assistance at the gate. If medical supervision is needed, you must travel with a qualified medical professional.
Security checks
All passengers must go through airport security screening.
If needed, security staff can do a manual check instead of using machines.
During the flight
Cabin crew support
Our cabin crew are here to help, but there are some things they can't do:
- they can’t feed you, help with personal hygiene, or give you medication;
- they can’t lift or carry passengers;
- they can't carry you to or from the toilet (although they can help you walk to and from it).
If you need help with any of the above, bring a medical professional with you.
Our cabin crew are trained to recognize life-threatening situations and provide first aid until medical assistance arrives. They know basic life-saving algorithms (such as CPR – cardiopulmonary resuscitation), how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), and how to help passengers in cases of sudden illness, injury, or other medical emergencies.
After the flight
Aftercare and health considerations
After air travel, especially if you’ve used in-flight oxygen or other medical support:
- Check your health: if you notice any changes in your symptoms or feel unwell, contact a medical professional immediately.
- Stay hydrated and get some rest: cabin air is dry, and air travel can be physically demanding. Drink fluids and take time to recover.
Airport assistance on arrival
If you’ve requested assistance at your arrival airport, airBaltic will coordinate with the local airport staff to help you:
- exit the aircraft safely and comfortably;
- reach your next mode of transportation, such as your connecting flight;
- navigate customs and baggage claim (where available).
Please note: while our team will assist with mobility support on the ground, we do not provide medical supervision after the flight. If ongoing care is needed, you must travel with a qualified medical professional.