Fit to Fly with Chickenpox — What You Need to Know in 2025

Flying with chickenpox can be stressful — for you, your child, and the airline. Many families discover, often at the airport, that their travel plans must change due to airline health policies about infectious illnesses. In this article, we explain when it’s safe (and allowed) to fly after chickenpox, how to get a fit to fly certificate, and what current UK and airline regulations in 2025 say.

Can You Fly with Chickenpox?

In most cases, you can’t fly while contagious with chickenpox. Airlines have a duty to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and may refuse boarding if visible spots are open, blistered, or inflamed. The general guidance from UK airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, and Jet2 (as of 2025) is:

• You’re not fit to fly until at least 7 days after the last new spot appears.

• You must have a fit to fly letter from a GP or doctor stating that you (or your child) are no longer infectious.

Even if you or your child are feeling better, gate staff or cabin crew may still refuse travel without official medical confirmation.

How Long After Chickenpox Can You Fly?

Chickenpox usually becomes non-contagious once all spots have crusted over — this typically happens around 5–7 days after the final new spot.

Your GP or a licensed doctor can assess your recovery and write a fit to fly certificate confirming that you’re no longer a risk to others.

Remember: different airlines apply slightly different rules. Always check your airline’s policy before your trip, and notify them early if you or your child develop chickenpox.

Do Airlines Check for Chickenpox?

Yes, they can. Airline staff are trained to identify infectious rashes, particularly chickenpox, measles, and shingles.

If your child has visible scabs or scarring, staff might request a doctor’s note to confirm they are safe to travel. Without one, you may be denied boarding even if symptoms have improved.

How to Get a Fit to Fly Letter for Chickenpox

At DrNote.co.uk, our GPs can issue a fit to fly letter for chickenpox quickly and securely. You can request one online within minutes — no need to visit your GP surgery.

Your certificate will include:

• Confirmation that the patient is no longer contagious

• The recovery date and medical clearance

• GP name, GMC number, and date of issue

• Airline-friendly wording accepted by most UK and international carriers

Turnaround: usually within 1–2 hours for verified medical records.

Accepted by: British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, TUI, Ryanair and most UK-based airlines.

Tips for Flying After Chickenpox

• Check before booking: If chickenpox is going around your household, consider flexible tickets.

• Document recovery: Keep photos showing all spots have crusted over.

• Carry your letter: Keep a printed and digital copy for airport staff.

• Travel insurance: Verify your insurance covers illness-related cancellations or delays.

Summary

• You cannot fly while chickenpox is still infectious.

• Wait at least 7 days after the last new spot appears.

• Secure a fit to fly chickenpox letter from a doctor before travelling.

• DrNote.co.uk offers quick, verified online letters accepted by most airlines.

Need a “fit to fly after chickenpox” letter today?

Request one now from a registered UK GP at DrNote.co.uk. Get verified documentation securely online – fast, affordable, and airline-approved.