What is the MEDIF Form?
MEDIF (Medical Information Form) is a standardised form developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for medical assessment of passengers. Airlines require MEDIF to be completed by a doctor when a passenger's medical condition may affect their ability to travel safely, or when they need special assistance during the flight.
The form typically covers:
- Patient's current diagnosis and medical history
- Stability of the condition and recent treatment
- Specific requirements during flight (supplemental oxygen, wheelchair, stretcher, special seating)
- The doctor's assessment of fitness to travel
- Any medications to be taken in-flight
Airlines use their own versions of the MEDIF form, though all follow the same IATA structure. When you contact your airline for clearance, they will tell you which form they require and how to submit it.
Who Needs Medical Clearance to Fly?
Medical clearance is most commonly required for passengers who:
Recent surgery
Most airlines require 7–10 days post-general anaesthetic (longer for some procedures including thoracic or abdominal surgery). This is due to gas expansion at altitude.
Cardiac or stroke events
Recent heart attack, unstable angina, cardiac surgery, or stroke. Clearance timelines vary by airline; typically at least 7–14 days post-event for stable cases.
Respiratory conditions
Passengers who require supplemental oxygen, or whose respiratory conditions may be affected by the reduced cabin oxygen pressure at cruising altitude.
Late pregnancy
Most airlines require medical clearance after 28 weeks, and many refuse travel after 36 weeks without documentation. Individual airline policies vary.
MEDIF vs Fit-to-Fly Letter: What's the Difference?
These serve different purposes:
- MEDIF form: A structured airline form submitted to the airline's medical department for formal clearance. Required when the airline has initiated a MEDA (medical) process for your booking.
- Fit-to-fly letter: A GP letter confirming fitness to travel. Required by travel insurers for claims related to pre-existing conditions, or as general documentation. Not a substitute for MEDIF when the airline requires formal clearance through its own process.
Lambert Medical can provide both. Check with your airline and insurer what they specifically require before booking your appointment.
How to Get Medical Clearance Quickly
- Contact your airline first. Ask them to send you their specific MEDIF form and instructions for their medical clearance process.
- Book your GP appointment. Same-week appointments are available at Lambert Medical. Bring the airline's form, any relevant hospital letters, and a list of your current medications.
- The GP will assess and complete the form at your appointment, or write a fit-to-fly letter if that is what is needed.
- Submit to the airline's medical department. Processing times vary by airline — allow a few days if possible.
Allow enough time: Airlines' medical departments can take several working days to process MEDIF forms. Book your GP appointment and submit the form as early as possible before your travel date.
Book Your Appointment
Lambert Medical Practice offers fit-to-fly letters and MEDIF form completion with same-week appointments in Surbiton.