SALT LAKE CITY — A woman whose Delta Air Lines flight was diverted to Salt Lake City Wednesday morning has given birth at a local hospital.
According to Salt Lake City International Airport spokeswoman Barbara Gann, Delta flight 2566 from San Francisco to Minneapolis had to make an emergency stop in SLC because a passenger was having "pregnancy complications."
The woman was taken to University Hospital, where she gave birth via an emergency cesarean section, a hospital spokeswoman said.
Alta View Hospital Doctor Kathryn Walker says pregnancy complications during while flying are rare, in general woman can fly unrestricted.
"Airplane flight, travel is very safe," Walker said. "And going through security is also very safe."
Walker said women who have a history of pregnancy concerns or preterm labor should consult a doctor before flying. Changes in altitude can affect the body and induce labor. Walker said women who choose to fly should be aware of those effects.
"You swell a little during flights," she said. "So you want to make sure every hour, hour and a half you get up and move your circulation around, do some stretches."
A statement on the Delta Air Lines website addresses pregnancy and air travel:
"Delta does not impose restrictions on flying for pregnant women, so a medical certificate is not required to travel. Keep in mind, however, that ticket change fees and penalties cannot be waived for pregnancy. If you're traveling after your eight month, it's a good idea to check with your doctor to be sure travel is not restricted."
Gann said the emergency landing was routine and executed quickly. The Delta flight continued its course to Minneapolis with only about an hour delay.
