Do Infants Fly Free On American Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Are you planning a family trip and wondering if you will have to pay for your baby’s ticket? American Airlines may have the answer you’re looking for. Many parents wonder if infants fly free on American Airlines, and we’re here to clear up any confusion.

American Airlines does have a policy for infants and young children, but it can vary depending on the child’s age and the type of fare you purchase. Keep reading to learn more about flying with infants on American Airlines and what you need to know before booking your next trip.

Do Infants Fly Free on American Airlines?

Do Infants Fly Free on American Airlines?

As a parent, traveling with infants can be a daunting experience, and the cost of airfare can add to the stress. One of the questions that frequently arises is whether infants fly free on American Airlines. In this article, we will explore the policies and guidelines regarding infants on American Airlines.

Age Restrictions for Infants on American Airlines

American Airlines considers infants to be children under the age of two. Children two years and older must have a purchased ticket and occupy their own seat during the flight. However, infants under two years of age can travel for free on domestic flights if they sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

It is important to note that infants must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 18 years old. Additionally, only one infant is allowed to travel on an adult’s lap per flight. If there are two infants traveling with one adult, the second infant must have a purchased ticket and occupy a separate seat.

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International Flights with Infants on American Airlines

For international flights, there are different policies regarding infants on American Airlines. Infants under two years of age can travel for free on international flights, but they must still have a ticket. The cost of the ticket is typically a fraction of the full adult fare, but it varies depending on the destination and the class of service.

It is important to note that some countries require a special visa for infants traveling on their own passport. Parents should check the visa requirements for their destination before booking a flight with an infant.

Benefits of Flying with Infants on American Airlines

Flying with an infant can be challenging, but American Airlines offers several benefits to make the experience easier. One of the benefits is the ability to pre-board the flight with an infant. This allows parents to get settled in their seats and prepare for the flight without the stress of boarding with a crowd of passengers.

American Airlines also allows parents to bring one diaper bag and one stroller for each infant traveling on the flight. This can be a significant benefit for parents who need to bring a lot of supplies for their infant.

Restrictions for Infants on American Airlines

While American Airlines allows infants to travel for free on domestic flights, there are some restrictions that parents should be aware of. One of the restrictions is that infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight. This can be uncomfortable for both the adult and the infant, and it can be difficult to keep the infant in a safe position during takeoff and landing.

Additionally, parents should be aware that lap infants are not allowed to occupy exit row seats or seats with an airbag seatbelt. This can limit the seating options for parents traveling with infants.

Choosing to Purchase a Seat for an Infant

While infants can travel for free on American Airlines, some parents choose to purchase a separate seat for their infant. This can provide more comfort and safety for both the parent and the infant during the flight.

When purchasing a seat for an infant, parents should be aware that car seats are not allowed on American Airlines flights. Instead, parents can purchase a special infant seat that attaches to the airplane seatbelt.

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Comparing American Airline’s Infant Policies to Other Airlines

It is important to note that American Airlines’ policies regarding infants are relatively standard for the airline industry. Most airlines allow infants under two years of age to travel for free on domestic flights if they sit on an adult’s lap. For international flights, infants typically require a purchased ticket but at a reduced cost.

However, some airlines offer additional benefits for parents traveling with infants, such as special seating options or on-board amenities. Parents should compare the policies of different airlines to determine which airline best meets their needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, infants can fly for free on American Airlines if they are under two years of age and sit on an adult’s lap during the flight. While there are restrictions and limitations to this policy, American Airlines does offer several benefits to parents traveling with infants. By understanding the policies and guidelines regarding infants on American Airlines, parents can make informed decisions about their travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to air travel with infants on American Airlines:

What is the infant policy of American Airlines?

American Airlines offers several options for traveling with infants. Infants under the age of 2 can travel on the lap of an adult passenger, or in their own seat with an FAA-approved child restraint system. There is no charge for infants traveling on the lap of an adult, but a fee will be charged for infants occupying their own seat.

Additionally, American Airlines provides pre-boarding for passengers traveling with infants, and offers diaper-changing tables in select lavatories on board the aircraft.

What documents are required for infants traveling on American Airlines?

Infants traveling on American Airlines are not required to have their own government-issued identification. However, the adult passenger accompanying the infant must have a valid form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, and the infant’s birth certificate may be required for international travel.

It is recommended that passengers traveling with infants bring a copy of the infant’s birth certificate and any necessary travel documents, such as visas or immunization records.

What are the age limits for infant travel on American Airlines?

Infants under the age of 2 can travel on the lap of an adult passenger or in their own seat with an FAA-approved child restraint system. Children over the age of 2 must occupy their own seat and are subject to regular ticket prices.

American Airlines also offers special fares for young children between the ages of 2 and 14, and unaccompanied minors under the age of 15 are required to use American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service.

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What items can I bring for my infant on American Airlines?

Passengers traveling with infants on American Airlines are allowed to bring a diaper bag, stroller, and car seat at no additional cost. Diaper bags may be carried on board the aircraft, while strollers and car seats may be checked at the gate or at the ticket counter.

American Airlines also allows passengers to bring breast pumps and breast milk on board the aircraft, and provides guidelines for transporting these items through security.

Can I request a bassinet for my infant on American Airlines?

American Airlines does not provide bassinets or other sleeping accommodations for infants on board their aircraft. However, passengers traveling with infants may bring a small, collapsible stroller on board the aircraft, which can be used as a sleeping area for the infant during the flight.

Passengers may also request a bulkhead seat, which provides extra legroom and space for the infant to sleep on the floor in front of the seat.

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In conclusion, American Airlines provides a great policy for infants who are less than two years old. They fly free on the lap of an adult. However, if the parents want a separate seat for their child, they need to purchase a separate ticket. This is a great option for parents who want to travel with their little ones without having to pay for an extra ticket.

This policy has made it convenient for families to travel together without worrying about the cost of an extra ticket. It is important to keep in mind that the infant should be secured in the lap of an adult at all times during the flight. This ensures the safety of the child and the other passengers on board.

Overall, American Airlines has provided a great option for parents who want to travel with their infants. It is a cost-effective and convenient way to travel, and it allows families to create lifelong memories together. So, if you are planning to travel with your little one, don’t hesitate to book your flight with American Airlines.

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