Traveling with infants can be a daunting task, but American Airlines aims to make it as hassle-free as possible. Their comprehensive bassinet policy ensures a comfortable and safe journey for families with young children.
Key Takeaways:
- American Airlines allows families with children under 2 years old to board early and brings one carry-on diaper bag per child.
- Safety seats approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use on aircraft.
- If traveling internationally with an infant on your lap, you can check one bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.
- Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as adults.
- American Airlines provides special assistance for pregnant travelers and dedicated spaces for nursing mothers at many airports.
Traveling with Children Under 2 Years Old
When planning a trip with your little one, it’s important to know the policies and amenities available to ensure a comfortable journey. American Airlines understands the needs of families traveling with infants and provides options to make your travels hassle-free.
Traveling Options for Children Under 2
Children under 2 years old can travel on American Airlines as either lap children or in their own seats.
- Lap Children: If you choose to have your child travel as a lap child, they do not require their own seat. However, please note that in this case, your child must be able to sit on your lap throughout the flight and cannot exceed 2 years of age.
- Children with Own Seats: If your child has their own seat, they must either have an approved safety seat or be able to sit upright without assistance. This ensures the safety and comfort of your child during the flight.
To cater to the needs of young passengers, American Airlines provides bassinets on select aircraft types for infants weighing 20 pounds or less. These bassinets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Availability and Requesting a Bassinet
American Airlines offers bassinets for infants on select aircraft types, including the 777-200, 777-300, and 787. However, please note that these bassinets are not available to passengers traveling in first or business class.
If you would like to request a bassinet for your infant, make sure to do so at the time of booking or contact American Airlines Customer Service. Bassinet availability is limited, so it’s advisable to make the request as early as possible.
Traveling with an infant can be made more comfortable with the availability of bassinets on American Airlines flights. Ensure a seamless travel experience for your little one by planning ahead and making the necessary arrangements.
Traveling with Children 2 Years and Older
When children are 2 years and older, they must have their own seat on the plane. The child can travel with a purchased adult fare ticket, whether it’s a cash ticket, award flight, companion ticket, or other eligible ticket.
Children under the age of 5 cannot travel alone. However, once a child reaches their fifth birthday, they can travel solo by following American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor policies.
Families traveling with children younger than 15 can request to sit together without paying extra fees, but all travelers should be booked on the same reservation to ensure seating arrangements.
Seating Arrangements for Families:
American Airlines understands the importance of keeping families together during flights. Families traveling with children under the age of 15 can request to sit together without incurring any extra fees. To ensure seating arrangements, it is essential that all travelers, including children, are booked on the same reservation. This allows the airline to accommodate families and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Travelers can make this request during the booking process or by contacting American Airlines customer service. The airline will do its best to fulfill these seat requests; however, availability may vary depending on the flight and aircraft.
Unaccompanied Minor Policies:
For children who are 5 years and older and wish to travel alone, American Airlines has comprehensive unaccompanied minor policies in place. These policies ensure the safety and well-being of young travelers throughout their journey.
When booking an unaccompanied minor ticket, parents or guardians are required to provide contact information for both the departure and arrival airports. The airline staff will assist the child throughout the travel process, including check-in, security procedures, and boarding. The child will also receive special attention and assistance during any layovers or flight connections.
Please note that there is a fee associated with booking an unaccompanied minor ticket. The specific fee may vary depending on the flight and destination. It is recommended to contact American Airlines customer service or visit their website for complete details on the unaccompanied minor policies and fees.
A Peaceful Journey for Families:
Whether traveling with infants or older children, American Airlines strives to provide a peaceful and enjoyable journey for families. From booking seats together to ensuring the safety of unaccompanied minors, the airline’s policies and services are designed to accommodate the unique needs of families.
By familiarizing themselves with American Airlines’ children policies and unaccompanied minor policies, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children will have a safe and comfortable travel experience. Creating lasting memories while exploring new destinations has never been easier with American Airlines.
Boarding and Proof of Age
When traveling with American Airlines with a child under 2 years old, families have the option to board early as part of the boarding priority for families. This allows you to settle in and get comfortable before the general boarding process begins. By taking advantage of this perk, you can ensure a smoother start to your trip.
It’s important to note that when traveling with children under the age of 18, parents must be prepared to show proof of age if requested by American Airlines staff. Acceptable forms of identification include a birth certificate or a passport. Ensuring you have the necessary documents readily available will help streamline the boarding process and minimize any potential delays.
As a family-oriented airline, American Airlines prioritizes the comfort and convenience of families traveling with young children. By following the boarding process guidelines and having the appropriate proof of age documentation, you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience right from the start.
| Benefits | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Early Boarding | Traveling with a child under 2 years old |
| Proof of Age | Children under 18 years old |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I request early boarding if I have multiple children under 2 years old?
- What forms of identification are accepted as proof of age?
- Is there any additional documentation required for international flights?
Conclusion
American Airlines prioritizes the comfort and safety of families traveling with infants and children. With a comprehensive policy in place, they provide boarding priority for families and offer bassinets for infants on select aircraft types. It is crucial for parents to familiarize themselves with the specific guidelines and requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
By following American Airlines’ infant and children policies, families can travel with ease and create lifelong memories. Whether it’s requesting early boarding, bringing safety seats, or checking a bag for an infant, American Airlines strives to make the travel experience hassle-free and enjoyable for families.
Remember, when traveling with children under 2 years old, you have the option of either having them as lap children or purchasing a separate seat. Additionally, children 2 years and older must have their own seat. American Airlines also offers unaccompanied minor policies for those children who are ready to travel solo.
To ensure a seamless journey, parents should always carry appropriate documentation, such as proof of age for their children, and arrive at the airport well-prepared. With American Airlines’ dedicated policies and guidelines, families can embark on their travels with confidence, knowing that their little ones are well taken care of.
FAQ
What is American Airlines’ policy on bassinets?
American Airlines provides bassinets on a first-come, first-served basis to passengers younger than 2 who weigh 20 pounds or less. These bassinets are available on select aircraft types, such as the 777-200, 777-300, and 787. However, bassinets are not available to passengers in first or business class.
Can I request a bassinet reservation on American Airlines?
Bassinets on American Airlines are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking or by contacting American Airlines directly. However, availability is not guaranteed, so it is recommended to request early and check with the airline closer to your departure date.
What is the size limit for American Airlines bassinets?
There is no specific size limit mentioned for American Airlines bassinets in their policy. However, these bassinets are designed for infants weighing 20 pounds or less, so it’s advisable to ensure your child fits comfortably within these weight guidelines.
Are bassinets always available on American Airlines flights?
Bassinets on American Airlines are available on select aircraft types and are subject to availability. While the airline tries to accommodate passengers with bassinet requests, they are not guaranteed. It is advisable to check with the airline closer to your departure date for the most up-to-date information on bassinet availability.
How do I request a bassinet on American Airlines?
To request a bassinet on American Airlines, you can do so at the time of booking or by contacting the airline directly. It is advisable to request early and check with the airline closer to your departure date to ensure availability. Bassinets are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can children travel on American Airlines as lap children?
Yes, children under 2 years old can travel on American Airlines as lap children. They do not require their own seats, but it is recommended to bring an approved safety seat or ensure the child can sit upright without assistance.
What is American Airlines’ policy for traveling with children 2 years and older?
Once children reach the age of 2, they must have their own seat on the plane. The child can travel with a purchased adult fare ticket, whether it’s a cash ticket, award flight, companion ticket, or other eligible ticket.
Can children travel alone on American Airlines?
Children under the age of 5 cannot travel alone on American Airlines. However, once a child reaches their fifth birthday, they can travel solo by following American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor policies. It is advisable to check with the airline for specific guidelines and requirements for unaccompanied minors.
Can families request to sit together on American Airlines flights?
Families traveling with children younger than 15 can request to sit together on American Airlines without paying extra fees. However, all travelers should be booked on the same reservation to ensure seating arrangements.
How does the boarding process work for families with young children on American Airlines?
American Airlines allows eligible families with young children to preboard before other passengers as part of the boarding priority for families. Families traveling with a child under 2 years old can ask gate agents to board early. This allows families to settle in and ensure a smoother boarding experience.
What proof of age is required when traveling with children on American Airlines?
When traveling with children under the age of 18, parents must be able to show proof of age when asked by American Airlines staff. Acceptable forms of identification include a birth certificate or passport.
What other assistance does American Airlines provide for traveling with infants and children?
American Airlines provides special assistance for pregnant travelers and offers dedicated spaces for nursing mothers at many airports. It is advisable to check with the airline for specific services and facilities available for traveling with infants and children.
