Are you planning to embark on a journey with your little one and wondering how to navigate the world of air travel with a "lap child" on American Airlines? You've come to the right place! Traveling with an infant on your lap can be a fantastic way to save on airfare, especially for domestic trips. However, there are crucial steps and considerations to ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable experience for everyone. Let's dive in!
Embarking on Your Family Adventure: Booking a Lap Child on American Airlines
So, you're ready to fly with your precious cargo! The very first step is to understand what a "lap child" entails and if it's the right option for your family. A lap child, or lap infant, is a child under two years old (24 months) who travels on an adult's lap without occupying their own seat. This option is generally free for domestic flights within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For international flights, a percentage of the adult fare plus taxes usually applies.
Ready to get started? Let's break down the process!
Step 1: Understand American Airlines' Lap Child Policy
Before you even think about booking, it's vital to be familiar with American Airlines' specific rules for lap infants. Knowing these details upfront will save you time and potential headaches down the line.
Sub-heading: Age and Eligibility Requirements
Under 2 Years Old: Your child must be under two years old (24 months) for the entire duration of the trip. If your child turns two during your journey, they will require a purchased seat for the remainder of the itinerary, starting from their second birthday. This is a strict FAA regulation.
One Lap Child Per Adult: Each adult passenger aged 15 or older can only have one lap child. If you are traveling with more than one infant under two years old, you will need to purchase a seat for each additional infant.
Medical Clearance: If your infant is less than 7 days old, you must provide a doctor's letter stating they are medically cleared to travel.
Sub-heading: Domestic vs. International Travel
Domestic Flights (within U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands): Generally, lap infants travel for free. You still need to include them in your reservation.
International Flights: For international travel, a lap infant is typically charged 10% of the adult fare, plus applicable taxes. This can vary, so it's always best to confirm the exact cost when booking or contacting American Airlines.
Sub-heading: Seating Restrictions
No Exit Rows: Due to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, lap children are not allowed in exit rows, or the row directly in front of or behind an exit row. This is a safety measure to ensure clear egress in an emergency.
One Lap Infant Per Row (Generally): Most aircraft have a limited number of oxygen masks per row. For safety reasons, American Airlines generally permits only one lap infant per row. This means even if two adults are traveling together with two lap infants (one per adult), they might not be able to sit in the same row if there's only one lap infant allowed per row.
Step 2: Booking Your Flight (Adding Your Lap Child)
There are two primary ways to add a lap child to your American Airlines reservation: during the initial booking process or after you've already purchased your tickets.
Sub-heading: Booking During Initial Flight Purchase
This is the most straightforward method.
Select Your Passengers: When you begin your flight search on American Airlines' website (aa.com), you'll typically see an option to select the number of adults and children. Look for an option to indicate "infant in lap" or similar.
Enter Infant Details: As you proceed to the passenger details page, you will be prompted to enter your infant's information, including their full name and date of birth. Ensure the date of birth is accurate, as this determines their eligibility as a lap child.
Review and Confirm: Double-check all details, especially the infant's information, before finalizing your booking. The system should reflect that the infant is traveling as a lap child.
Sub-heading: Adding a Lap Child to an Existing Reservation
Did you forget to add your little one, or did plans change? No problem!
Access Your Trip on aa.com: Go to "My Trips" on the American Airlines website and retrieve your existing reservation using your record locator and last name.
Navigate to Passenger Details: Once you're in your trip details, look for a "Passenger details" section.
Select 'Add infant in lap': You should see an option, typically a button or link, that says "Add infant in lap." Click on this.
Enter Infant's Information: Provide the required details for your infant, including their name and date of birth.
Review and Pay (if applicable): For international flights, you will likely see the associated fees and taxes at this stage. Review the charges and complete the payment if required.
Confirmation: You should receive a confirmation that your lap infant has been successfully added to your reservation.
Sub-heading: The Power of a Phone Call
While online booking is convenient, sometimes a direct conversation is best.
Call American Airlines Reservations: If you encounter any difficulties, have specific questions about international lap infant fares, or prefer speaking to someone, don't hesitate to call American Airlines Reservations directly. Their customer service representatives are equipped to handle these requests and can often clarify any nuances that aren't clear online. Have your booking reference number ready.
Step 3: Preparing for Your Journey (Pre-Flight Essentials)
Once your lap child is officially on the reservation, it's time to prepare for the actual travel day. Thoughtful preparation can make a world of difference.
Sub-heading: Documentation is Key
Proof of Age: Always carry proof of your infant's age. A copy of their birth certificate or their passport (for international travel) are acceptable forms of identification. American Airlines staff may ask to see this at check-in or the gate.
International Travel Documents: For international flights, your lap child will need their own passport. Additionally, if your child is traveling with only one parent, you may need a signed letter of consent from the non-traveling parent. Research country-specific entry requirements well in advance.
Sub-heading: Baggage Allowance for Infants
Diaper Bags Don't Count: Good news! One diaper bag per child is typically allowed as a carry-on item and does not count towards your personal item or carry-on limit.
Breast Milk/Formula: Liquid formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. These are considered medically necessary liquids. Inform TSA officers at the beginning of the screening process.
Strollers and Car Seats: American Airlines generally allows one checked (or gate-checked) stroller and one checked (or gate-checked) car seat for free. These items do not count against your regular baggage allowance.
Sub-heading: Airport Procedures
Early Arrival: Plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual when traveling with a lap infant. This allows ample time for check-in (especially if you need to verify documents or handle any last-minute issues), security screening, and getting settled before boarding.
Check-in: While you can often check in online, you might be required to check in at the airport counter if you're traveling with a lap infant, particularly for international flights or if you need to verify their age.
Security Screening (TSA): You will need to remove your infant from their stroller or carrier and carry them through the metal detector. Strollers and car seats will go through the X-ray machine. TSA has modified screening procedures for children 12 and under, aiming to reduce pat-downs.
Pre-Boarding: Families traveling with young children (often under 2 years old) are usually invited to pre-board. Take advantage of this! It gives you extra time to get your belongings stowed, settle your infant, and potentially ask for a bassinet if available.
Step 4: During the Flight (Comfort and Safety)
The flight itself can be challenging with a lap infant, but a little planning goes a long way.
Sub-heading: Bassinets (Limited Availability)
Request Early, but First-Come, First-Served: American Airlines offers bassinets on some international flights, specifically on 777-200, 777-300, and 787 aircraft (economy class only). These are for infants under 2 years old and typically weighing less than 20 lbs (9 kg). You can request a bassinet when booking or by calling, but they are generally first-come, first-served at the gate. Arrive early and ask the gate agent as soon as possible.
Bulkhead Seats: Bassinets attach to the bulkhead wall (the wall separating cabins). If you're hoping for a bassinet, you'll need to be in a bulkhead seat.
Usage: Bassinets can only be used when the seatbelt sign is off. You'll need to remove your baby during turbulence, takeoff, and landing.
Sub-heading: Feeding and Comfort
During Takeoff and Landing: Encourage your baby to suckle (breastfeed, bottle-feed, or pacifier) during takeoff and landing. This helps to equalize pressure in their ears and can alleviate discomfort.
Snacks and Entertainment: Pack plenty of snacks, small toys, and books to keep your infant entertained.
Changing Diapers: Most wide-body aircraft have changing tables in the lavatories. Pack a well-stocked diaper bag with extra diapers, wipes, and a changing pad.
Dress in Layers: Dress your baby in comfortable layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
Step 5: Arrival and Beyond
Congratulations, you've made it!
Deplaning: Allow other passengers to deplane first if you need extra time gathering your belongings and your infant.
Collecting Gate-Checked Items: If you gate-checked your stroller or car seat, it will usually be returned to you at the jet bridge upon arrival. Confirm this with the flight attendant before you deplane.
Customs and Immigration (International): Be prepared for the customs and immigration process if you've traveled internationally. Have all your infant's documents readily available.
10 Related FAQ Questions: How to...
Here are some quick answers to common questions about traveling with a lap child on American Airlines:
How to check if my flight offers bassinets? You can check the aircraft type for your flight on aa.com or SeatGuru. If the aircraft is a 777-200, 777-300, or 787, bassinets might be available in economy, but they are first-come, first-served at the gate.
How to know if I need a passport for my lap child? Always for international travel. For domestic travel within the U.S., a copy of their birth certificate is usually sufficient, but a passport is always recommended as it serves as definitive proof of age.
How to handle multiple lap infants with one adult? You cannot. American Airlines, like most airlines, allows only one lap child per adult aged 15 or older. For additional infants, you must purchase a separate seat.
How to deal with a child turning two during the trip? If your child turns two on any flight segment of your itinerary, you must purchase a ticket for them for that flight and all subsequent flights where they are two years old or older.
How to ensure my car seat is approved for use on the plane? FAA-approved car seats will have a label stating "This restraint is certified for use in Motor Vehicles and Aircraft." Ensure your car seat has this label if you plan to use it onboard.
How to get special assistance for families at the airport? Don't hesitate to ask American Airlines staff or airport personnel for assistance. They can help with directions, provide early boarding, and sometimes assist with baggage.
How to manage ear pressure for my infant during the flight? Encourage your baby to suckle during ascent and descent – breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a pacifier can help equalize pressure in their ears and reduce discomfort.
How to pack for a lap infant's carry-on? Prioritize essentials: diapers, wipes, formula/breast milk, baby food, change of clothes for baby and adult, a lightweight blanket, small toys, books, and any necessary medications. Remember, one diaper bag is usually excluded from carry-on limits.
How to find out if my specific row allows a lap infant? Lap infants are generally not allowed in exit rows or the rows directly in front of or behind them. Due to oxygen mask limitations, some rows might only permit one lap infant. You can ask a gate agent or flight attendant for guidance.
How to change a flight after adding a lap infant? If you need to change your flight, contact American Airlines reservations directly. They will ensure your lap infant's details are transferred correctly to the new reservation and advise on any applicable fees or policy changes.
