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The Best Airlines for Flying with Babies
Where from?
Where to?
Dates
Passengers & Class
1 Adult, Economy/Coach
Flying with a Baby
Different airlines have different policies for flying with babies. We'll compare some of the most popular child-friendly airlines, looking at their locations, pricing, and hold luggage amounts to find the most suitable airline for you and baby. We'll also give you helpful tips so you're well-prepared.
Flying with a child
Are you flying with a newborn or a child above 2 years old? Different things will need to be considered for newborn travel, so check out our newborn flight guide. Once a baby reaches their second birthday, many airlines will have different fares and policies than the ones mentioned on this page. For more information on flying with a child, including top tips and FAQs, check out our guide to flying with children.
The Best Airlines for Flying with a Baby
Terminology and currency are as per the airline’s website. Exact figures can vary depending on route and fare type. These tables are a guide. Airline policies are subject to change at any time.
These are some popular airlines and their infant travel policies, including the cost of travel and maximum baggage allowance. The list will start with the European airlines and then move to Asia, America, Oceania, and Africa.
Ticket Information when Flying with a Baby
Baby/ Infant Ticket Age
The age that your baby can fly from will depend on the airline. Some airlines will only let babies fly if they're two weeks or older, whereas others will allow babies to fly from as young as two days old. If your baby is under two weeks old, you might be required to provide a letter from your GP stating that they're safe to fly. That said, because airports are so full of germs and babies immune systems are still developing, we advise waiting until they're a few months old.
Baby Ticket Price
Young babies fly at discounted rates with almost every airline. Some airlines have an 'infant-in-arms' policy where under 2-year-olds can sit on the adult's lap for free or at a cheap price. You'll still have to get them a ticket, even if it costs nothing, so the airline knows the exact number of passengers.
Pushchair, Car Seat and Cot Policy
Many airlines allow passengers to bring their own cot, car seat, pushchair, or buggy onto the plane without it contributing to their baggage allowance or costing any extra.
Depending on the item's size, this will either be allowed on the plane with you during your flight (e.g., with a car seat) or put securely with the rest of the flight's checked luggage.
For items like pushchairs, many airlines will let you keep the item right until boarding so that it's not checked too early. Therefore allowing for more accessible travel around the airport.
Tips for Flying with a Baby
Breastfeeding on a Plane
If you need reassurance and guidance about how to breastfeed on a plane, have a look at our top tips for breastfeeding whilst travelling. It also includes information on popular airline policies regarding breastfeeding mothers.
What happens if I'm expecting a baby before I fly?
If you've booked a flight and are expecting to have a baby before you fly, please contact us so we can let the airline know. It is important that the airline is notified for your and the airline's safety and ease.
Other things to be aware of
- Check-in online - If possible, check in online. This can save you from rushing around at the airport, which can be additionally stressful with a baby.
- Book night flights - Booking a night flight can make it easier for your baby to sleep on the plane, as their sleep schedule won't be as disturbed.
- Bring baby milk - Make sure to check the specific airport and airline policies, but unlike with most liquids, baby milk often won't have to abide by the 1-litre rule, so you won't have to worry about how much you pack.
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FAQs
How old does a baby technically have to be to fly?
The age that a baby is able to fly is dependent on the airline, however, the majority allow babies who are 2 weeks or older to fly onboard their planes. It's always worth checking the airline-specific rules prior to booking your flights.
Do you need a birth certificate to fly with a child?
Sometimes. Some airlines will require proof of age, especially for newborns and children under 2 years old, so if your child falls into this age range, it's a good idea to bring it just in case.
Should I not fly with a baby?
Although it's advised not to fly with newborns, there's no reason why you shouldn't travel with a baby that's older than a few weeks/months. Some might fear the stigma of bringing children on flights, and it can be stressful at times, but there will always be understanding staff there to help.
How to help baby's ears when flying?
Because of the changing air pressure when flying, it can cause earache and an uncomfortable popping sensation. For babies, this can be extra difficult because not only will they be in pain, but they won't know why. To help encourage them to swallow, give them a bottle or a pacifier. This can help equalize the air pressure, making their ears a little less painful.
How to encourage baby to sleep on the plane?
A sleeping baby can make your flight considerably more relaxed. There are different things you can do to encourage them to get that much-needed rest on the plane. Dress them in comfy clothes so they already feel nice and snug. Sing softly to them or read them a story. Use specific words that they associate with bedtime, for example, nighty-night.
What are the best seats when flying with a baby?
There are certain seats that you can't actually have when flying with a baby. For safety reasons, exit row seats are unavailable. In an emergency, those doors need to be opened as quickly as possible. Unsurprisingly, a baby won't be able to do this. Window seats are often a good idea for babies because they provide them a little more privacy and mean there's less risk of them getting accidentally hit by someone walking past. This is something that frequently happens on airlines with thin aisles.
What to bring when flying with a baby?
- Baby carrier
- Changing bag
- Formula milk
- Travel cutlery
- Snacks
- Rash cream
- Blanket
- Soothers
- Toys
- Nappies
- Breast pump
- Story books
- Sunscreen
What happens if a child turns two while away?
Once a child turns two, they're no longer eligible for the 'infant-in-arms' policy, meaning they won't be able to sit on your lap during the flight. Any journey after their second birthday will require a seat purchased for the child. This might mean they get their flight for free on the way there, but if they turn two while away, you will have to have purchased them a seat for the journey back.