Taking a baby on a plane is indeed something that makes many parents worry. However, with careful preparation and a thorough understanding of regulations and practical advice, flying with children can become much easier.
Appropriate Age for Children to Fly
Legally, there are no specific regulations about the minimum age for children to fly. However, most airlines require babies to be at least 7 days old before allowing them to fly. Some airlines even require a higher age, such as Southwest Airlines which requires children to be 14 days old for international flights.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), it’s best to wait until the child is 2-3 months old before flying. This is because newborns’ immune systems are still weak, and being in the enclosed space of an airplane and exposure to many people can increase the risk of infectious diseases.
For premature babies or children with cardiopulmonary issues, parents should consult their doctor before taking them on a plane. This is particularly important because these children’s lungs may not be fully developed to adapt to cabin pressure and altitude.
Preparing for the Flight
Booking Tickets and Choosing Seats
When booking airplane tickets for children under 2 years old, parents have two options: buying a separate ticket for the child or having them sit on their lap (lap infant). Although the law doesn’t require purchasing tickets for children under 2, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and experts recommend buying separate tickets for safety reasons.
If you decide to buy a separate ticket, make sure to bring an FAA-certified car seat on the plane. This seat must have a label stating “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft”. Using a car seat on the plane not only helps ensure the child’s safety in case of turbulence but also helps them feel more comfortable and sleep better.
When choosing seats, prioritize rows with more space such as the bulkhead area. However, avoid choosing seats near emergency exits for safety reasons. Window seats are usually better choices than aisle seats, as they avoid the risk of hot drinks spilling on the child when flight attendants serve food and beverages.
Preparing Luggage
Preparing luggage when flying with small children requires careful calculation and organization. Most airlines allow parents to bring an additional bag for baby items beyond the regular carry-on luggage limit. This bag is usually called a diaper bag and doesn’t count toward the standard baggage allowance. Additionally, car seats and strollers are usually free and don’t count toward the baggage limit.
In the baby bag, the most important thing is to prepare more diapers than you expect to need. You never know how long flights might be delayed, so having extra is necessary. Along with diapers, wet wipes and dirty diaper bags are essential items. Change of clothes is also important – not just for the baby but also for adults, as accidents can happen anytime.
For milk and food, TSA has special regulations. Formula, breast milk, and water for formula are allowed in quantities exceeding the usual 100ml limit. However, you need to store them in clear bottles and inform security staff during screening. If bringing ice packs to keep milk cold, ensure they are frozen solid when going through security.
Arriving at the Airport and Going Through Security
When flying with small children, arriving at the airport at least an hour earlier than usual is essential. This helps you have enough time to handle any situations that arise calmly, avoiding stress for both adults and children.
At the check-in counter, you should reconfirm any special requests previously registered, such as baby bassinets or special seating. This is also when you can get luggage tags for strollers or car seats if you plan to check these items.
At the security checkpoint, proactively inform TSA staff about carrying milk, water, and food for the baby. They will guide you through appropriate screening procedures. If you’re wearing your baby in a carrier or using a stroller, you’ll need to carry the baby when going through the metal detector. Strollers, car seats, and all luggage must be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
On the Plane
Takeoff and landing are usually the most challenging times for small children. Pressure changes can cause discomfort and ear pain for the baby. To help the baby feel more comfortable, you should nurse them or give them a pacifier during these times. The sucking and swallowing motion will help balance the pressure in the baby’s ears. However, don’t feed the baby too early before the plane actually takes off, as they might finish feeding before the plane reaches the necessary altitude.
Regarding hygiene, be prepared to change diapers in the cramped space of airplane toilets. Many modern planes are equipped with changing tables in the bathroom. However, if not available, you might have to change diapers on the closed toilet seat. In this case, bringing disposable changing pads is very useful.
Special Considerations
For International Flights
For international flights, children of all ages need their own passport. Parents need to submit Form DS-11 and appear in person with their child to process the application. You need to bring the child’s birth certificate and photos taken within the last 6 months.
Time Zone Issues
Helping children adapt to new time zones should begin a few days before the flight. You can gradually adjust the baby’s eating and sleeping schedule to the new time zone, changing by about 30 minutes to 1 hour each day. Upon arrival, exposing children to natural light will help their biological clock adjust faster.
During the first few days at the destination, you should maintain the baby’s familiar routines as much as possible. This may include bedtime rituals such as bathing, reading books, or singing lullabies. This familiarity will help the baby feel more secure in the new environment.
When Children Cry
A child’s crying on the plane can make many parents feel pressured, but the most important thing is to stay calm. Remember that crying is the only way babies can express discomfort or unease. Instead of worrying about other passengers’ reactions, focus on understanding why the baby is crying.
Some common reasons why children cry on planes can be ear pain due to pressure changes, fatigue, hunger, or simply discomfort with the unfamiliar environment. Identifying the correct cause will help you handle the situation appropriately. Sometimes, a small walk along the airplane aisle can help stop the crying.
Experience shows that most passengers are understanding of parents with small children, especially those who have been in similar situations. Instead of feeling guilty, focus on staying calm and comforting your child, as children can sense their parents’ emotions and will cry more if they sense tension.
Conclusion
Flying with small children can be challenging, but with careful preparation and thorough understanding, every flight can go smoothly. The important thing is to always prioritize the child’s safety and comfort while maintaining a positive and calm attitude in all situations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What age is OK for babies to fly?
Babies can fly from 7-14 days old, depending on each airline’s policy. However, the ideal age is from 2-3 months and older. For premature babies or those with cardiopulmonary issues, parents should consult their doctor before taking them on a plane.
How do I protect my baby’s ears when flying?
To protect your baby’s ears during the flight, you should nurse them or give them a pacifier during takeoff and landing. The sucking and swallowing motions will help balance the pressure in your baby’s ears. However, be careful not to feed your baby too early before the plane actually takes off.
Do babies under 2 fly free?
Children under 2 years old are not required to have their own ticket. Parents can choose to have their baby sit on their lap (lap infant) for free or purchase a separate ticket. Although not mandatory, experts recommend buying a separate ticket for safety reasons. If purchasing a separate ticket, parents need to bring an FAA-certified car seat.
References
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Guidelines for flying with children
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – Traveling with children
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Travel recommendations
- U.S. Department of Transportation – Family seating policies
- U.S. Department of State – Passport information