Airlines are notoriously strict when it
comes to air travel regulations to ensure the passengers’ maximum security and
safety. But they’re more forgiving when it comes to children below 2 years old.
Regardless, parents and travel companions must take the responsibility of
observing these air travel rules for infants to ensure that their baby stays
safe and comfortable throughout the flight. Here is everything you need to know about the air travel with infant.
Ticketing and Seating Requirements
Airlines have different ticketing
procedures and rules for infants. But generally, guardians of children under 2
years old have the choice to sit the baby on their laps. This means they don’t
have to pay for an additional ticket or seat for the baby. Airlines have a 1:1 the ratio of paying adult (at least 18 years old for United Airlines) and nonpaying
infant. You have to get a special boarding pass for your infant if you’re
choosing this option. For example, if you’re flying Southwest Airlines, get a
Boarding Verification Document at the boarding gate.
International flights have stricter
requirements. Some airlines may require you to purchase a ticket for 10 to 20
percent of the regular fare, even if your baby will be sitting on your lap. In
this case, it’s better to have a separate seat for the infant so you’ll both be
comfortable. You have the option of choosing and bringing your own stroller,
Federal Aviation Administration-approved child seat, and other equipment you
may need. Some airlines allow babies to have these extra pieces of equipment on
top of the baggage allowance for no extra charge.
But if you are planning to air travel with infant in an airline that
doesn’t, you can cut costs on baggage fees by renting the necessary baby equipment.
For instance, you don’t have to bring a stroller if you rent one and have it
delivered to your destination airport or hotel.
Rules for Carrying Baby Food
The Travel Security Administration (TSA) exempts
babies’ travel guardians from the 3.4-ounce rule. You can carry breast
milk, formula, or juices over the limit, as well as ice packs and frozen gel
packs to keep them cool. If these items are slightly slushy, they may undergo additional screening. The TSA also allows you to bring liquid-filled
teethers and baby food, as long as you keep all of these in your carry-on.
The Food and Drug Administration says
consuming food and beverage that underwent X-ray screening has no health
implications. Although you can still inform the TSA if you’d rather not have
your breast milk, formula, and juices X-rayed or opened.
Note that you don’t have to be traveling
with an infant to carry breast milk.
Screening Process
All passengers must undergo the airport’s security screening process, even babies. Put all the equipment, such as a stroller,
baby seat, carrier, and toys, on the scanner along with your carry-on luggage.
Carry your baby as you go through the metal detector. Toddlers may walk without
assistance, so you can send your child through the detector alone.
Pack your baby’s liquid belongings in a
separate clear pouch. You need to remove these from your carry-on bag since
they’ll be screened separately. Don’t forget to declare all food and liquid
items, so the airline and TSA know what you’re carrying.
Each airline has its own allowances,
restrictions, and fees for flying with infants. Double-check the airline’s
website and make sure you have everything you need before your trip, so you
know what to do when you get to the airport.