Frequently Asked Questions

In the vast majority of cases, children with heart abnormality can travel by air without difficulties or special precautions.

Air travel is very much part of our way of living, is a means by which many local and overseas patients come to us, and need not be seen as a problem. There are a few special situations to consider.

These include conditions where blood oxygen levels are lower than normal (cyanotic conditions) prior to surgery and others where lung blood pressure is increased (pulmonary hypertension). Situations where your child’s cardiac condition has recently been unstable also deserve special consideration.

In airplanes at high altitude, just as at the top of high mountains, the oxygen levels in the air are lower than at ground level. Long flights may also produce dehydration because of the air conditioning systems used. These can be important considerations for vulnerable children. Short flights of less than 2 hours are usually well tolerated.

We would suggest discussing you intentions with your cardiologist if:
(1) your child has one of the types of conditions mentioned above,
(2) your child is due to have or has just had cardiac surgery,
(3) your child has had recent problems with their heart condition stability, or
(4) you are still concerned.

If necessary, the option exists to provide a supply of oxygen on board a flight after application by you to the airline. This may incur a cost. Maintaining good fluid intake to avoid dehydration is also important.