Updated information as of September 9, 2021.
Embarking on air travel with a baby in tow can feel like a herculean task. It often involves navigating airports with a stroller, a car seat, and a seemingly endless supply of baby essentials. While the prospect might seem daunting, air travel remains a significantly faster alternative to lengthy road trips. However, flying with a baby presents its own unique set of challenges, and understanding the specific airline ticketing policies is paramount to ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey. This article provides a comprehensive overview of those policies to help you prepare for your flight. You will learn about Airline Ticketing Policies for Traveling With a Baby and other important tips.
General Rules
The landscape of airline regulations regarding infants is dynamic and varies significantly from carrier to carrier. While it’s crucial to confirm the most up-to-date policies with your specific airline before traveling, several general guidelines typically apply to Airline Ticketing Policies for Traveling With a Baby.
Infant Fares
One of the most significant considerations is the cost of a ticket for your infant. The term "infant fare" refers to discounted or free tickets for children under two years old who travel on a parent’s lap. However, the availability and specifics of these fares differ considerably among airlines.
Several major airlines, including Delta, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Alaska Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Allegiant Airlines, and Virgin America, do not offer infant fares. On these carriers, if you wish to secure a separate seat for your baby and utilize a car seat during the flight, you will be required to purchase a full-fare ticket.
Southwest Airlines takes a slightly different approach, offering what they term "affordable infant fares" for children under two years old when they are secured in an approved car seat. These fares are not available for online booking and must be arranged by calling Southwest Airlines directly at 800-435-9792. This policy allows families to travel with the added security and comfort of a car seat without incurring the full cost of an adult ticket.
American Airlines provides both domestic and international infant fares. For international flights, the infant fare is typically discounted by 90 percent of the adult fare. As with Southwest Airlines, these fares are not available online and must be booked by contacting American Airlines customer service at 800-433-7300.
Hawaiian Airlines adopts a similar approach to American Airlines, charging full adult fares for infants on domestic flights. However, they offer a special child fare for international flights. To inquire about and book these tickets, you can contact Hawaiian Airlines at 800-367-5320.
International Flights
When embarking on international travel with a lap infant (a child under two years old who does not occupy their own seat), airlines often have specific regulations and associated fees. Typically, airlines charge approximately 10 percent of the adult fare for infants traveling without a seat on international routes. This fee covers the cost of necessary documentation and ensures the infant is properly accounted for on the flight manifest.
JetBlue Airways has a specific policy for lap infants on international flights, requiring the payment of applicable fees and taxes. A ticket must be issued for the infant, clearly displaying the collection of these fees and taxes.
Alaska Airlines also charges fees for lap infants on international flights, specifically when traveling from an international location back into the United States. It’s essential to note that the exact amount of these fees can vary depending on the origin and destination of the flight.
Questions to Ask
Beyond the crucial aspects of airfare and car seat usage, several other questions can significantly impact your travel experience with a baby. Proactive inquiry can help you prepare for potential challenges and ensure a smoother journey.
One important question to ask the airline is whether the car seat you plan to bring on board will be counted as one of your carry-on items. Airlines often have restrictions on the number of carry-on bags allowed per passenger, and understanding how the car seat is classified will help you avoid any unexpected baggage fees or complications at the gate.
Pre-boarding is another significant consideration for families traveling with young children. Many airlines offer pre-boarding privileges to families with infants, allowing them to board the aircraft before the general passenger flow. This can provide valuable time to settle in, install the car seat, and organize your belongings before the cabin becomes crowded. Inquire with the airline about their pre-boarding policy for families with infants.
Access to diaper-changing facilities is essential for maintaining your baby’s comfort and hygiene during the flight. While most airplanes have restrooms equipped with changing tables, the availability and cleanliness of these facilities can vary. It is advisable to ask the airline about the location and condition of diaper-changing facilities on the specific aircraft you will be flying on. Additionally, consider bringing a portable changing pad and your own diaper-changing supplies to ensure a clean and comfortable experience for your baby. Knowing all about the Airline Ticketing Policies for Traveling With a Baby helps to be prepared for the flight.
By understanding the nuances of airline ticketing policies and proactively addressing potential concerns, you can transform the experience of flying with a baby from a stressful ordeal into a manageable and even enjoyable journey. Remember to contact your specific airline directly to confirm their most up-to-date policies and to address any specific questions or concerns you may have. With careful planning and preparation, you can confidently navigate the skies with your little one.
