When booking a bassinet seat for your baby on international flights, start early to secure availability. Familiarize yourself with airline-specific policies regarding age, weight, and height limits. Check availability online or via travel apps, and confirm directly with customer service if needed. Consider travel agents for expert help. Phone reservations require your baby’s details and a confirmation request. There might be fees, so understanding potential costs is essential. This guide will enhance your booking success.
TLDR
- Check the airline’s website for bassinet availability and specific booking policies for international flights.
- Reserve bassinet seats early to secure availability and preferred flight schedules for traveling with an infant.
- Contact customer service by phone or email for assistance in booking a bassinet seat.
- Be aware of weight, height, and age restrictions for bassinets, which vary by airline and route.
- Consider using a travel agent to handle the booking process and communicate directly with airlines.
Importance of Early Reservation for Bassinet Seats
When traveling with infants, making an early reservation for a bassinet seat is crucial to assure a smooth journey. Availability is limited, so booking early guarantees you secure a spot before they’re all taken. Planning seating arrangements in advance enhances comfort and reduces stress, as you won’t worry about last-minute seat allocation. Early booking can also mitigate fees some airlines charge for seat reservations. Additionally, it allows you to choose ideal flight schedules for traveling with an infant. Understanding weight, height restrictions, and cabin class options during early reservation is important. Bassinets are typically available on long-haul flights, primarily in certain cabin classes. Each aircraft’s variations mean early planning can confirm availability, and proactive communication with customer service facilitates the process. Airlines may have specific policies regarding child seat usage, so it’s essential to check with the airline before traveling to ensure compliance with their guidelines. To ensure you get a bassinet, call airline customer service to request one during ticket booking, as they are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Understanding Airline-Specific Bassinet Policies
Maneuvering airline-specific bassinet policies can seem intimidating, but understanding them is essential to guarantee a comfortable journey with your infant.
Start by checking each airline’s criteria. LATAM Airlines requires advance bookings for bassinets on 767, 777, and 787 flights, while Lufthansa allows reservations up to 52 hours before departure on long-haul flights.
Malaysia Airlines offers free bassinets if you book at least 24 hours in advance, and MIAT Mongolian Airlines requires requests at check-in.
United Airlines permits bassinet use only when the seatbelt sign is off. Notably, the availability of bassinets varies by airline and aircraft type, so it is crucial to confirm these details when planning your travel. Typically, bassinets are available on long-haul or larger aircraft, often requiring bulkhead seats.
Methods for Checking Bassinet Availability
Curious about how to check bassinet availability for your little one on an upcoming flight? Start by visiting the airline’s website. Log into the booking or manage booking section to see if bassinets are available. If you prefer apps, airline-specific or general travel apps often provide this information. Additionally, booking platforms like Expedia might help, though it’s less common. If you’re a frequent flyer, leverage your program benefits to access exclusive resources. SkyCots are available on select international flights, so it’s advisable to confirm when booking. Alternatively, reach out directly through customer service. Call or email the airline, or use live chat support for real-time assistance. Social media inquiries might also yield quick responses. At the airport, check-in counters can confirm availability if you’ve not arranged it before departure.
Steps for Booking a Bassinet Seat Over the Phone
Securing a bassinet seat over the phone requires a bit of preparation and a clear approach.
First, gather your infant’s age, travel documents, and flight booking details. Review the airline’s bassinet policies, as each may have specific requirements. Bassinets are available for request in United Polaris® business class or select international Economy flights.
Call the airline’s customer service, stating your intent to request a bassinet seat. Provide all necessary information like your infant’s age and seat preference. Most safety seats approved for motor vehicles are acceptable on aircraft, so if you plan to use one, ensure it complies with the necessary requirements and has a solid back.
Be ready to modify your seat to a bassinet-compatible location if needed. Confirm the bassinet reservation, asking for a reference number.
Understand the availability is limited and some airlines might charge extra.
Finally, during the call, communicate clearly and request email confirmation. Note the agent’s details for follow-up and verify the seat assignment online afterward.
Utilizing Travel Agents for Bassinet Reservations
When maneuvering through the complexities of booking a bassinet seat for your infant, enlisting the help of a travel agent can be an invaluable resource.
Travel agents offer specialized services tailored to family travel. They’re familiar with airline policies, helping secure bassinet seats efficiently. Agents save you time by handling bookings and communicating directly with airlines. They provide expert advice on flights and seats suitable for families with infants. Since bassinet seats are typically located at bulkhead areas, travel agents can assist in ensuring you select the right seats for this option. Bulkhead seats, often recommended for families, provide extra legroom and accommodate bassinets, making airplane travel more comfortable for families with young children.
Additionally, travel agents often have access to priority booking systems, increasing your chances of securing a bassinet. They offer detailed availability information and flexibility, adjusting travel plans if needed.
Cost savings might be possible through negotiated rates. Overall, agents manage logistics, reducing stress and ensuring a smoother travel experience for your family.
Documentation Required for Bassinet Booking
Before you can secure a bassinet seat for your infant, knowing the necessary documentation is vital. Airlines usually require proof of your infant’s age, like a birth certificate or passport. This documentation verifies eligibility, particularly for infants under 12 to 24 months of age. You might also need to present this identification at check-in or boarding. If your child requires special accommodations, medical documents could be necessary. Always link your infant’s boarding pass to the bassinet request for seamless verification. Each airline has its unique requirements, so checking specific documentation needs ahead of time is essential for international flights. Many airlines have a limited number of bassinets available on flights, so booking early increases the chances of securing a bassinet seat. Keep a record of all communication with the airline, including confirmation numbers and booking references, to confirm your bassinet reservation.
Navigating Bassinet Size and Weight Limitations
Understanding the size and weight limitations of bassinets is essential when planning to travel with your infant. Each airline sets specific parameters. Most airlines limit a baby’s weight to between 20 and 27.5 pounds (9 – 12.5 kg), with American Airlines capping at 20 lbs (9 kg) and Emirates at 24 lbs (11 kg). Height restrictions vary too, ranging from 27 to 32 inches (70 – 81 cm). For instance, Delta Air Lines restricts to 26 inches (66 cm), while United allows up to 29 inches (74 cm). Age limitations also apply; American Airlines limits bassinets to babies under 6 months, whereas Emirates allows up to 2 years. Additionally, cabin crew has the final authority on bassinet usage based on size, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed during the flight.
Payment Considerations and Potential Fees
Securing a bassinet seat for your infant involves careful consideration of payment details and potential fees, as these can vary widely among airlines. While most airlines, like Delta, offer bassinet seats free of charge, others such as Lufthansa may charge reservation fees depending on class or route. It’s important to inquire early to avoid unexpected costs. Payment timing can differ; some airlines require payment at booking, while others allow bassinet requests through specific channels only. Bassinets are available for infants not occupying a seat on ANA flights, but a reservation is required at least 48 hours before departure. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Airline | Bassinet Fee | Infant Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | Free | Varies |
| Lufthansa | Possible fee | 10% of adult |
| ANA | Free with conditions | 10% of adult |
Understanding these nuances guarantees a smoother booking experience.
Tips for Ensuring a Successful Bassinet Booking
When planning a trip with an infant, ensuring a successful bassinet booking requires strategic preparation and proactive communication with the airline. Start by booking tickets early to improve chances, and immediately request a bassinet. Confirm availability through customer service or online tools. Understand that airlines have specific policies, such as weight and height restrictions, so check these requirements. Choose flights on aircraft like Boeing 777 or Airbus A330, as they offer bassinets. Bassinets are generally free to book but may require extra fees for bulkhead seating. Prioritize bulkhead seats and avoid inconsistent bassinet availability on connecting flights. Keep following up with the airline to maintain your request’s status. Finally, have documentation like your baby’s weight, height, and age ready. With these steps, you’ll enhance the likelihood of securing a bassinet seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bassinets Be Used on Domestic Flights?
Yes, bassinets can be used on domestic flights, but they’re limited. I recommend requesting one early, as availability varies by aircraft size and airline. You may need to contact customer service to secure a bassinet.
Are Bassinets Available on Budget Airlines?
I find that bassinets on budget airlines are rare, often unavailable, or limited to certain routes. It’s essential to check with the airline directly, but I recommend managing expectations due to their focus on cost-saving measures.
How Do Airlines Clean Bassinet Seats Between Flights?
Airlines perform a gentle refresh on bassinet seats between flights, ensuring they’re fresh and ready. They use sanitizing products, but I recommend bringing wipes for extra peace of mind. Always check individual airline cleaning protocols for details.
Can Parents Bring Their Own Bassinet Onboard?
You can’t bring your own bassinet onboard because airlines prioritize safety and space. Most won’t allow personal bassinets, so you should rely on airline-provided options or approved car seats that meet safety standards.
What Happens if My Baby Exceeds Bassinet Size Limits Mid-Flight?
Imagine your baby’s growth as a journey. If mid-flight they outgrow the bassinet, safety takes the wheel. Notify the crew; they’ll guide you to a car seat, ensuring a smooth shift for your little traveler.
Conclusion
Booking a bassinet seat for your baby on an international flight can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but with the right approach, it’s manageable. Start early, know your airline’s policies, and keep documentation ready. Don’t hesitate to use all available resources, including travel agents, to ease the process. Remember, a well-planned journey sets the stage for smoother skies ahead, ensuring comfort for both you and your little one. Safe travels!
