Navigating the Skies with Your Little One: A Comprehensive Guide to Adding a Child Under 2 to Your American Airlines Flight
Hey there, excited parents and guardians! Are you planning a trip with your tiny traveler on American Airlines? Flying with an infant can seem daunting, but with the right information and a clear step-by-step guide, you'll be soaring through the skies with ease. Let's make sure your little one's first flight (or fifth!) is as smooth as possible.
Before we dive in, let's clarify something crucial: American Airlines welcomes infants as young as 2 days old, though a doctor's note is required for those under 7 days. This guide will focus specifically on children under 2 years old (24 months), as their travel requirements differ significantly from older children. Ready to get started? Let's go!
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
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| How To Add Child Under 2 To American Airlines Flight |
Step 1: Understanding American Airlines' Infant Policy – Lap Infant vs. Ticketed Seat
This is where your journey begins, and it's perhaps the most critical decision you'll make. American Airlines offers two primary options for children under 2:
1.1 The "Lap Infant" Option (Domestic Flights: FREE; International: Fee applies):
For flights within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, your child under 2 can travel on your lap for free. This is a popular choice for many families due to the cost savings.
For international flights, even if your infant travels on your lap, a fee typically applies. This is usually 10% of an adult fare plus applicable taxes. It's important to factor this into your budget.
Key Point: Only one lap infant is permitted per adult who is at least 15 years old. If you're traveling with more than one infant under 2, you'll need to purchase a seat for each additional infant.
Consideration: While cost-effective, a lap infant means holding your child for the entire flight, which can be tiring, especially on longer journeys.
1.2 Purchasing a Separate Seat for Your Infant (Recommended for Comfort & Safety):
You always have the option to purchase a separate seat for your infant, regardless of whether you're flying domestically or internationally.
If you choose this option, your infant must travel in an FAA-approved child restraint system (car seat) that fits properly in the aircraft seat.
Benefits: This provides your child with their own space, and many parents find it significantly more comfortable and safer, especially during turbulence. It also allows you to have your hands free.
Important Note: Not all car seats are approved for air travel. Look for a label on your car seat that explicitly states: "This restraint is certified for use in Motor Vehicles and Aircraft" (for US standards) or an equivalent UN or Transport Canada approval label. Booster seats and other types of harnesses without proper aircraft certification are generally not allowed for use during take-off, landing, and surface movements.
Step 2: Adding Your Infant to Your Reservation – Online or By Phone
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
Once you've decided on the "lap infant" or "ticketed seat" option, it's time to add your child to your booking.
2.1 Adding During Initial Booking (Online):
If you're booking a new flight, American Airlines makes it quite straightforward. As you proceed through the booking process on aa.com, you'll reach the "Passenger details" page. Look for an option to "Add infant in lap" or similar. You'll need to provide your infant's name and date of birth.
Pro Tip: Ensure all travelers, including the infant, are on the same reservation. This helps American Airlines keep your family seated together.
2.2 Adding to an Existing Reservation (Online or By Phone):
Online: If you've already purchased your tickets and need to add an infant, you can often do this by accessing your trip on aa.com. Navigate to the "Passenger details" page within your reservation and select the "Add infant in lap" option.
By Phone (Highly Recommended for Complex Situations): For international flights where fees apply, or if you plan to purchase a separate seat and use a car seat, it's highly recommended to call American Airlines Reservations directly. Their agents can ensure all details are correctly processed, especially regarding international infant fares and car seat specifics.
American Airlines Customer Service: 1-800-433-7300
Why call? Sometimes online systems don't fully capture the nuances of international infant fares or special seating requests for car seats. Speaking to an agent can save you headaches later.
Step 3: Preparing Essential Documents for Your Little Traveler
Traveling with a child, especially internationally, requires specific documentation. Don't leave this until the last minute!
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
3.1 Proof of Age:
American Airlines may ask for proof of age for any child under 18, so have a copy of your infant's birth certificate readily available. While not always requested for domestic lap infants, it's better to be prepared.
3.2 Travel Documents (Especially for International Flights):
For all international travel, including infants, your child will need their own passport. Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date.
Depending on your destination, a visa might also be required for your infant. Check the entry requirements for your destination country well in advance.
Important for Single-Parent Travel or with Guardians: If your child is traveling with only one parent or with a guardian, you might need a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s). This letter should explicitly state that you have permission to travel with the child. This is crucial for avoiding issues at immigration.
3.3 Doctor's Note (If Applicable):
As mentioned, if your infant is under 7 days old, you must have a doctor's letter stating they are medically cleared to travel. This is a non-negotiable safety requirement.
Step 4: Understanding Baggage and Baby Gear Policies
Packing for a baby often feels like packing for a small army! Here’s what American Airlines allows for your little one's essentials:
4.1 Diaper Bag:
You are permitted one carry-on diaper bag per child, and it does not count towards your personal item or carry-on allowance. This is a huge perk! Pack it wisely with essentials for the flight.
4.2 Strollers and Car Seats:
American Airlines allows one stroller and one car seat to be checked free of charge for each ticketed customer. This applies whether your infant is a lap infant or has their own seat.
Gate Checking vs. Ticket Counter Checking:
Strollers over 20 lbs (9 kgs) must be checked at the ticket counter.
Most other strollers can be gate-checked (meaning you can use them up to the boarding gate and pick them up at the aircraft door upon arrival).
Crucial Detail: If you have both a stroller and a car seat, only one can be gate-checked. The other will need to be checked at the ticket counter. Plan accordingly based on what you need access to until boarding.
4.3 Breast Milk and Pumps:
Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk do not count as your carry-on or personal item. This is fantastic news for nursing mothers.
4.4 Other Baby Gear:
Items like playpens, wagons, cribs, and "pack and play" systems count as regular checked bags and are subject to standard baggage fees if they exceed carry-on limits.
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Step 5: On the Day of Travel – Tips for a Smooth Journey
You've planned, you've packed, and the day is finally here!
5.1 Arrive Early:
With an infant, always arrive earlier than the recommended check-in time. This allows for unexpected diaper changes, feeding times, and navigating the airport at a slower pace.
5.2 Family Boarding:
American Airlines typically offers family boarding for families with children under 2 years old. Take advantage of this! It allows you extra time to get settled, install a car seat (if applicable), and arrange your belongings before the main boarding rush. Listen for the announcement at the gate.
5.3 In-Flight Comfort for Your Baby:
Ear Pressure: Changes in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for babies. Encourage your baby to nurse or bottle-feed during these times, or offer a pacifier. The sucking motion helps to equalize the pressure in their ears.
Dress in Layers: Airplane temperatures can fluctuate. Dress your baby in layers so you can easily adjust their comfort.
Diaper Changes: Most American Airlines wide-body aircraft have changing tables in the lavatories. Pack a disposable changing pad just in case, and plenty of diapers and wipes.
Distractions: Bring a few of your baby's favorite small toys or books to keep them entertained. For older infants, a tablet with downloaded shows can be a lifesaver.
Bassinets (Limited Availability): Bassinets are available on certain American Airlines aircraft (typically larger planes like the 777-200, 777-300, and 787). They are designed for infants under approximately 20 lbs (9 kg) and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis at the gate. You cannot reserve them in advance. If you hope to use one, arrive early at the gate and inquire immediately. Bassinets are usually in bulkhead rows.
Step 6: Post-Flight Considerations
6.1 Collecting Gate-Checked Items:
Upon arrival, you'll typically collect your gate-checked stroller or car seat at the aircraft door after disembarking.
6.2 Immigration (for International Travel):
Have all your infant's travel documents, including passport and any consent letters, easily accessible for immigration checks.
Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, all starting with "How to," to help you further:
How to know if my car seat is approved for American Airlines flights?
Look for a label on your car seat stating "This restraint is certified for use in Motor Vehicles and Aircraft" (for US-manufactured seats) or a label indicating approval by Transport Canada, the Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) of the European Union, or the United Nations ECE R 44-03 (or later versions).
How to request a bassinet on an American Airlines flight?
Bassinets are not reservable in advance. You must inquire about availability on a first-come, first-served basis at the boarding gate on the day of your flight. They are typically available on longer-haul, wide-body aircraft.
How to ensure my family gets seats together on American Airlines?
Book all family members on the same reservation. If you don't choose seats in advance (or have Basic Economy), American Airlines' system will try to assign seats together automatically before departure, aiming to seat children under 15 next to at least one adult. For guaranteed seating together, consider selecting seats during booking (which may incur a fee for certain fare types).
How to manage ear pressure for my baby during takeoff and landing?
Encourage your baby to suck on something – breastfeed, bottle-feed, or use a pacifier – during ascent and descent. This helps equalize pressure in their ears.
How to check a stroller and car seat for free on American Airlines?
Each ticketed passenger is allowed to check one stroller and one car seat free of charge. Strollers over 20 lbs must be checked at the ticket counter. All other strollers can be gate-checked. Only one of these items can be gate-checked; the other must be checked at the ticket counter.
How to bring breast milk on an American Airlines flight?
Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk do not count as your carry-on or personal item and can be brought on board in addition to your standard carry-on allowance.
How to get priority boarding with an infant on American Airlines?
American Airlines offers "Family Boarding" for passengers traveling with children under 2. Listen for the announcement at the gate and proceed to board during this time.
How to handle a child turning 2 years old during the trip?
If your child turns 2 during your trip, they will require a purchased seat for any subsequent flights on which they are 2 years or older. You'll need to arrange for a ticket for those segments of your journey.
How to get a doctor's note for my newborn to fly on American Airlines?
If your infant is under 7 days old, contact your pediatrician to obtain a letter stating that your baby is medically cleared for air travel. This letter must be presented to the airline.
How to find information on international infant fares for American Airlines?
While online booking might show a summary, it's best to call American Airlines Reservations directly (1-800-433-7300) for precise details on international infant fares, which are typically 10% of the adult fare plus taxes, even for lap infants.
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