Flying with an infant can be rough and international air travel with a baby brings even more difficulties. Although most airlines allow any baby older than one week to fly, the practical considerations make overseas travel with an infant a challenging endeavor.
Flying With an Infant in Arms
The biggest benefit of traveling "infant in arms" on an international flight is the cost savings over purchasing a separate seat for the baby. Typically, airlines charge 10% of the normal adult fare for babies traveling in their parent's lap.
As an example, a March 2010 flight between Beijing, China and New Orleans, Louisiana, USA on Continental Airlines cost $82 round trip for an infant flying in his parent's lap. The major disadvantage, of course, is that carrying an infant on the lap for 8, 10, 12 or more hours can be tiring. Sharing lap duty and passing the baby between two parents can help.
Parents might also use a sling, wrap or other type of baby carrier to make things easier, though most airlines do not allow these devices to be used during takeoff and landing. Some airlines offer a bassinet for small babies, but these must be booked in advance and can only be used in bulkhead seats.
Purchasing a Seat for a Baby on an Overseas Flight
Some parents traveling overseas with an infant opt to purchase a separate seat for the child at full cost. In addition to the cost of the seat, parents will have to purchase a car seat for the baby if they don't already have one. Flights that originate or depart from the U.S. require the seat to be FAA approved. The convenience of having a separate seat and the added safety of being able to secure the baby in a car seat make the cost worthwhile to many parents of young infants.
Choosing the Best Seat in the Plane for Families with an Infant
Whether traveling infant in arms or with a separate seat for baby, seat location matters a lot for parents with a young child. For those requesting a bassinet, the bulkhead seats are the only available option. Unfortunately, these seats frequently don't have under–seat storage, making it hard to keep all of the necessities within reach.
A common choice for parents experienced with international baby air travel is an aisle seat near the plane restrooms. These seats generally offer the flexibility to step into the aisle if the baby needs to be walked around and quick access to the bathroom for unexpected diaper changes or cleanup duty.
Regardless of the inherent difficulties, many parents find traveling with their baby to be a rewarding experience. Whether it’s an overseas visit to introduce the infant to grandparents, part of an international move or just a vacation, new parents shouldn't let fears about flying with baby impinge upon their trip. It only takes a little forethought and planning to make baby air travel enjoyable for the whole family.
Bridget Coila - I'm a cell and molecular biologist, freelance writer and photographer currently living in Beijing, China. I'm fascinated by science, ...
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