Is it safe to fly after a collapsed lung?

Not for 6-8 weeks: It usually takes 6-8 weeks for lung to heal itself especially if the collapsed lung was caused by an air leak in the chest (pneumothorax). In this case, you should also avoid playing wind instruments, scuba diving & take precautions to avoid having constipation. Collapsed lung from other causes (there are many others) can recover sooner. Talk to your doctor to discuss your specific circumstances.

Collapsed lung: Flying after a collapse lung is safe depending on the following: 1. You must usually wait at least 6 weeks 2. It depends on whether you are flying commercial or general aviation. If the later, it depends on how high you plan to fly. 3. It depends on how the lung collapse was treated and how effective the treatment was. 4. It depends on whether you have underlying lung disease.