Summary

Following this review of evidence and after due consideration, it is clear that there are few cardiovascular conditions that warrant the denial of fitness to fly as a passenger. Given the right aircraft, on-board equipment and appropriately qualified and experienced escort personnel, aircraft can act as flying intensive care units and carry extremely ill passengers.1

For those with cardiovascular disease who are not critically ill but who wish to fly on commercial aircraft, the aircraft environment does not pose a significant threat to their health. It is only when their underlying condition is associated with a significant risk of acute deterioration that reasonable restrictions should apply. For those at the more severe end of the spectrum of their specific cardiovascular condition, services exist to help make the journey more easily and safely. Most carriers and airport authorities provide assistance on the ground and in the air. Oxygen is available on most major carriers, although this is sometimes subject to a charge and at least 7 days notice is normally required.2

Passengers are advised to plan their arrival at the airport in plenty of time to avoid having to rush and to warn the carrier and/or airport authority of any requirements for assistance, including requirement for in-flight oxygen, well in advance of the date of departure. They are strongly advised to ensure they have an appropriate supply of their medication, a clear list of the medications and doses they take and a letter of explanation from their doctor regarding their condition, drugs, allergies and devices (eg, pacemaker).

Physicians are advised to consider the stability of a passenger's condition and apply the guidance herein.

The authors have contributed to this document in good faith and consider it to be an honest conclusion of the review of evidence and assessment of the …