Most airlines issue some basic advice for carrying an infant on your lap during a flight. These tips and guidelines highlight the key points for flying with a lap toddler.
FLYING WITH LAP CHILD: Long flights with tiny toddlers can be a little stressful. This information should make it easier.
Note: Most airlines use these age definitions to differentiate between infants and children. But, some will use different age groupings.
Many flight companies will board families with children under 5 early. They often allow you to take two items for free. These include things like a pushchair or a travel cot.
They also allow you to choose your seats in advance - but some charge for this service. Even so, most parents will see the importance of ensuring the family sits together on the plane.
The most popular budget airlines carry some kind of snack packs on board for kids. They include assortments of puzzles or children's games to keep little ones entertained.
Note: The checks we carried out show support for breastfeeding mothers on planes. Airlines we questioned said moms can feed their baby on board without restrictions.
What is a lap child? Rules do vary but most airlines agree on the definition of a lap child. It is an infant from 7 days old until they reach their second birthday.
In most cases, when flying with babies, lap children do not need a paid seat. You can carry them in your lap free of charge. But, you can still choose to buy a seat for your baby if you want to.
There are strict flight regulations in the United Kingdom. An infant is no longer considered a lap child once they have their second birthday. That means you must pay for a seat for them to travel by airplane.
What happens if a child has their 2nd birthday between an outbound and a return flight? In this case, a seat needs purchasing for their return flight.
Airlines allow one (1) lap child for each customer aged 15 years or older.
Note: Flight companies can request documented proof of age for a traveler of 2 years old or younger. Thus, prepare to show documentation using a baby passport or a birth certificate.
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Guidelines for Flying with Baby on Lap in the United Kingdom