Are you planning to fly with your little one? As a parent, we understand how daunting it can be to travel with a baby, especially if it’s your first time. But worry not, American Airlines has policies and procedures in place to make flying with a baby a breeze. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free flight with your little one on American Airlines.
From booking your flight, packing the right essentials, to navigating through security and boarding, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned traveler with a baby, our tips and tricks will help you prepare for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. So, let’s get started!
How to Fly With a Baby American Airlines?
Traveling with a baby can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time flying with them. However, with a little preparation and knowledge, you can make your journey with American Airlines a smooth and successful one. Here are some tips to help you fly with a baby on American Airlines.
1. Booking a Ticket for Your Baby
When you’re booking a flight with American Airlines, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for your baby if they’re over two years old. However, if your baby is under two years old, they can travel on your lap for free. It’s important to note that you’ll need to inform American Airlines that you’ll be traveling with a lap child when you book your ticket.
When you’re booking your ticket, make sure to choose a seat that’s near the aisle or a bulkhead seat, which will give you more space to move around with your baby. You can also request a bassinet seat, which is a special seat that has a fold-down bassinet for your baby to sleep in.
2. Packing for Your Baby
When you’re packing for your baby, make sure to bring all the essentials they’ll need during the flight. This includes diapers, wipes, formula or breast milk, bottles, pacifiers, and extra clothes.
If you’re traveling with a stroller, American Airlines allows you to check it for free at the gate. You can also bring a car seat on board if you’ve purchased a seat for your baby.
3. Getting Through Security
When you’re going through security, you’ll need to take your baby out of their carrier or stroller and hold them while you go through the metal detector. You’ll also need to fold up your stroller and put it through the X-ray machine.
You’re allowed to bring breast milk, formula, and baby food through security, but it will need to be screened separately.
4. Boarding the Plane
When you’re boarding the plane, you’ll be allowed to board early with your baby. This will give you more time to get settled and get your baby comfortable.
If you’re traveling with a stroller, you’ll need to check it at the gate. You can also bring a car seat on board if you’ve purchased a seat for your baby.
5. In-Flight Entertainment and Comfort
American Airlines offers in-flight entertainment, which can be a great distraction for your baby during the flight. You can also bring your own toys and books to keep them entertained.
Make sure to bring a blanket and extra layers of clothing for your baby, as the temperature on the plane can fluctuate.
6. Feeding Your Baby
If you’re breastfeeding, you can do so on the plane without any issues. If you’re using formula or bottle-feeding, you can bring your own supplies or request hot water from the flight attendant to warm up your baby’s bottle.
7. Changing Your Baby
American Airlines has changing tables in the restrooms on their planes. Make sure to bring a changing pad and extra diapers and wipes.
8. Dealing with Ear Pressure
Babies can experience ear pressure during takeoff and landing, which can be uncomfortable for them. To help alleviate this, you can give your baby a pacifier or a bottle during these times. You can also try to get them to swallow by giving them a small amount of water.
9. Benefits of Flying with American Airlines
American Airlines offers a variety of benefits for families traveling with babies. This includes early boarding, free stroller check-in, and changing tables on their planes.
10. American Airlines vs Other Airlines
Compared to other airlines, American Airlines offers a good selection of in-flight entertainment and amenities for families. They also have a good safety record and are a reliable choice for air travel.
In conclusion, flying with a baby on American Airlines can be a positive experience if you’re prepared and know what to expect. Follow these tips to make your journey with your little one a smooth and stress-free one.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the age requirements for flying with a baby on American Airlines?
- What documents do I need to bring for my baby when flying with American Airlines?
- What items can I bring for my baby on the flight?
- What accommodations does American Airlines provide for families travelling with a baby?
- What should I do if my baby cries during the flight?
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- How Many Aircraft Does American Airlines Have?
- Is American Airlines Business Class Worth It?
- Can You Have 2 Carry Ons For American Airlines?
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but American Airlines strives to make it as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here are some common questions and answers for flying with a baby on American Airlines.
What are the age requirements for flying with a baby on American Airlines?
For infants under 2 years old, American Airlines allows them to fly as a lap infant without a separate ticket. However, it is recommended to purchase a seat for your infant to ensure their safety and comfort during the flight. If you choose to purchase a seat for your infant, you can bring an FAA-approved car seat onboard.
For children aged 2 and above, they must have their own ticket and seat on the flight.
What documents do I need to bring for my baby when flying with American Airlines?
You will need to bring a government-issued ID for yourself and your baby, as well as their birth certificate or passport. If you are travelling internationally, make sure to check the entry requirements for your destination country and bring any necessary documents for your baby.
If you are travelling with a lap infant, you will need to obtain a boarding pass for them at check-in and let the gate agent know that you will be travelling with a lap infant.
What items can I bring for my baby on the flight?
American Airlines allows you to bring a diaper bag, stroller, and car seat for your baby on the flight at no extra charge. You can also bring breast milk, formula, baby food, and other necessary items for your baby in your carry-on bag. Make sure to check the TSA regulations for liquids and gels for babies before packing your bags.
If you need to warm up your baby’s food or bottle during the flight, the flight attendant can provide hot water or assist you in using the microwave in the galley.
What accommodations does American Airlines provide for families travelling with a baby?
American Airlines offers priority boarding for families with young children, allowing you to board the plane before general boarding begins. They also provide bassinets on select international flights for infants under 2 years old who have their own seat. Additionally, the flight attendants can assist you in warming up your baby’s food or bottle during the flight.
If you have any special requests or needs for your baby during the flight, make sure to contact American Airlines in advance to make arrangements.
What should I do if my baby cries during the flight?
It is normal for babies to cry during flights, and American Airlines understands this. They encourage parents to bring items that can comfort their baby, such as blankets, toys, or pacifiers. If your baby is crying, try to remain calm and reassure them that everything is okay. You can also walk up and down the aisle with your baby or ask the flight attendants for assistance if needed.
Remember, the other passengers on the flight understand that travelling with a baby can be challenging and are likely to be understanding and supportive.
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In conclusion, flying with a baby on American Airlines can be made easier with a bit of preparation and following the airline’s guidelines. Remember to book your flight early to ensure you get the best seats for you and your baby. Pack wisely and bring along all the necessary items such as diapers, wipes, and bottles.
During the flight, be sure to take advantage of the amenities offered by American Airlines, such as changing tables and bassinets. It’s also important to keep your baby calm and comfortable, so bring along toys, blankets, and snacks to help keep them occupied.
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the flight attendants if you need it. They are there to assist you and make your flight as smooth as possible. With these tips in mind, you can relax and enjoy your flight with your baby on American Airlines. Happy travels!