American Airlines’ Infant Policy for Beginners

Traveling with an infant can be both exciting and overwhelming. From my own personal experience, the key to a smooth journey lies in understanding the airline’s policies and planning ahead. American Airlines, being one of the leading carriers in the United States, has specific guidelines for passengers traveling with infants. Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned traveler, this detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about American Airlines’ infant policy. By the end, you’ll feel confident and prepared for your journey. And please, don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your experiences or questions, I’d love to hear back from you.

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What Defines an Infant on American Airlines?

American Airlines considers any child under the age of 2 as an infant. There are two main options for traveling with infants:

1. Lap Infants: If your child is under 2 years old, they can travel on your lap without requiring a separate seat ticket.
2. Seated Infants: If you prefer, you can purchase a separate seat for your infant and secure them in an FAA-approved car seat or child restraint system.

Flying with a Lap Infant: Key Details

One of the biggest advantages of flying with a lap infant is the cost savings, as you don’t need to purchase an extra ticket. However, there are important factors to consider:

Domestic Flights

For domestic flights within the United States, lap infants travel for free. You simply need to notify the airline that you’ll have an infant traveling with you when booking your ticket.

International Flights

For international flights, lap infants typically incur a small fee, which is usually 10% of the adult fare, plus any applicable taxes and fees. Even though the infant doesn’t occupy a seat, these charges reflect the additional services provided for international travel.

Important Tips for Lap Infants

• Documentation: Carry proof of your child’s age, such as a birth certificate or passport.
• Comfort: Bring a small blanket and toys to keep your baby comfortable and entertained.
• Nursing or Bottle Feeding: Take-off and landing can be hard on an infant’s ears due to changes in cabin pressure. Nursing or bottle-feeding during these times can help alleviate discomfort.

Purchasing a Seat for Your Infant

For added safety and convenience, some parents choose to purchase a seat for their infant. Here’s what you need to know:

Benefits of a Separate Seat

• Safety: Using an FAA-approved car seat or child restraint system ensures your baby is securely fastened during the flight.
• Comfort: Your baby will have their own space, reducing the stress of holding them for long durations.

Guidelines for Car Seats

• The car seat must have a label indicating it is approved for use on aircraft.
• It should fit within the dimensions of the airplane seat. American Airlines’ standard seat width varies depending on the aircraft, so check with the airline beforehand.

Pricing

You’ll need to purchase a full-price ticket for your infant if they occupy their own seat. Be sure to factor this cost into your travel budget.

Baggage Allowance for Infants

Traveling with an infant often means extra luggage. Here’s a breakdown of what you can bring:

Diaper Bags

• Passengers with an infant are allowed to bring a diaper bag in addition to their standard carry-on allowance.

Strollers and Car Seats

• American Airlines allows you to check one stroller and one car seat per child for free. These can be checked at the ticket counter or gate.

Breast Pumps and Milk

• Breast pumps and breast milk are considered medical devices and are not counted as part of your carry-on allowance. You can bring a cooler to store milk during the flight.

Traveling with Multiple Infants

If you’re traveling with twins or more than one child under 2, each infant must have their own accompanying adult if they’re flying as lap infants. Alternatively, you can purchase seats for the additional infants and secure them in approved car seats.

In-Flight Amenities for Parents and Infants

American Airlines strives to make the journey as comfortable as possible for families:

Early Boarding

Families with young children are often allowed to board early, giving you extra time to settle in and stow your belongings.

Bassinets

On international flights, bassinets are available on a first-come, first-served basis for infants weighing up to 20 pounds. Be sure to request one when booking your ticket.

Onboard Assistance

Flight attendants are generally helpful and may assist with warming bottles or providing hot water.

Preparing for the Flight: Essential Tips

From my own personal experience, preparation is everything when traveling with an infant. Here’s how to ensure a smooth journey:

Packing Essentials

• Diapers (pack extra in case of delays)
• Wipes
• Changing pad
• Baby formula or breast milk
• Snacks (if your baby is old enough for solids)
• Extra clothes for both you and your baby
• Pacifiers or teething toys

Arrive Early

Give yourself plenty of time to navigate security and get settled at the gate. Traveling with a baby can slow you down, so plan accordingly.

Navigate Security Smoothly

• You’re allowed to bring liquids over 3.4 ounces for your baby, such as breast milk or formula, but they may need additional screening.
• Remove your baby from their stroller or carrier before going through security.

FAQs About American Airlines’ Infant Policy

Can I use a baby carrier during the flight?

Yes, but your infant must be removed from the carrier during takeoff and landing for safety reasons.

Are there discounts for infant tickets?

For lap infants, there is no cost on domestic flights and reduced fares on international flights. For seated infants, you’ll pay the full ticket price.

What if my child turns 2 during the trip?

If your child’s second birthday occurs before the return flight, you’ll need to purchase a seat for them for that leg of the journey.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with an infant on American Airlines doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding their infant policy and planning ahead, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable journey with your little one. From my own personal experience, being well-prepared makes all the difference. If you’ve traveled with an infant on American Airlines, I’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below to share your tips or ask any questions you might have. Safe travels!