Do Infants Fly Free On American Airlines?

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Traveling with infants can be a daunting experience for new parents, and the last thing you want to worry about is the cost of their airline ticket. If you’re planning on flying with American Airlines, you may be wondering whether your little one is eligible for a free ride.

In this article, we’ll explore American Airlines’ policy on infants flying for free, including any restrictions and requirements you should be aware of. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time parent, understanding these details can help make your trip a little smoother and less stressful. So, let’s get started!

Do Infants Fly Free on American Airlines?

Do Infants Fly Free on American Airlines?

If you’re planning a trip with your little one, you may be wondering if infants fly free on American Airlines. It’s a common question among parents, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. In this article, we’ll explore the policies and fees associated with flying with an infant on American Airlines.

Infant Policy on American Airlines

American Airlines allows one infant, under the age of 2, to travel for free with an adult. However, the infant must sit on the lap of the accompanying adult for the duration of the flight. If you prefer, you can purchase a seat for your infant and use an FAA-approved child restraint system, such as a car seat, for the duration of the flight.

It’s important to note that only one infant is allowed per adult. If you’re traveling with two infants, you’ll need to bring another adult to accommodate the second infant. Additionally, if you’re traveling with an infant and another child, the second child will need to have a purchased seat.

Booking a Flight with an Infant

When booking a flight with an infant, you’ll need to indicate that you’ll be traveling with a lap infant. You can do this online or by calling American Airlines’ reservations department. If you’re traveling internationally, you may need to provide additional documentation for your infant, such as a passport or visa.

If you choose to purchase a seat for your infant, you’ll need to indicate this during the booking process. You’ll also need to bring an FAA-approved child restraint system to use during the flight.

Infant Fees on American Airlines

As mentioned earlier, one infant under the age of 2 can travel for free with an adult. However, if you choose to purchase a seat for your infant, you’ll need to pay the regular child fare. This fare is typically 50-70% of the adult fare, depending on the route and availability.

If you’re traveling internationally, you may also need to pay additional fees and taxes for your infant. These fees can vary depending on the destination and airline.

Benefits of Flying with an Infant on American Airlines

Flying with an infant on American Airlines can be a convenient and stress-free experience. You’ll have the option of holding your infant on your lap or purchasing a seat for added comfort. American Airlines also provides complimentary strollers and diaper-changing tables on select flights.

Additionally, traveling with an infant can be a great way to introduce them to new experiences and help them adjust to different environments. Just be sure to bring plenty of snacks, toys, and other items to keep your little one entertained during the flight.

Alternatives to Flying with an Infant on American Airlines

If you’re not comfortable flying with an infant on American Airlines, there are other options available. Some parents choose to drive to their destination or take a train, which can be a more comfortable and affordable option for some families.

Another option is to wait until your infant is a bit older before traveling by air. While infants are generally safe to fly, some parents prefer to wait until their child is a bit older and better able to handle the travel experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, infants can fly for free on American Airlines if they’re traveling on the lap of an adult. However, if you prefer, you can purchase a seat for your infant and use an FAA-approved child restraint system. Be sure to indicate that you’ll be traveling with an infant when booking your flight, and bring all necessary documentation and items for your little one.

Regardless of whether you choose to fly with your infant or explore alternative travel options, remember to prioritize your little one’s safety and comfort throughout the journey. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about traveling with infants on American Airlines.

What age does a child have to be to fly on American Airlines?

Children of any age can fly on American Airlines, including infants. However, for safety reasons, infants must be at least 7 days old to travel on a flight operated by American Airlines.

Additionally, American Airlines recommends that infants be at least 2 days old before traveling, and that they have a medical release form signed by their pediatrician if they are younger than 7 days old.

What is the fee for an infant to fly on American Airlines?

Infants under the age of 2 can fly for free on American Airlines if they are sitting on an adult’s lap during the flight. However, if you would like your infant to have their own seat, you will need to purchase a separate ticket at the child fare rate.

Keep in mind that even if your infant is flying for free, you will still need to pay any applicable taxes and fees, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fee and airport facility charge.

What documents do I need to travel with an infant on American Airlines?

If you are traveling with an infant on American Airlines, you will need to bring a government-issued ID for yourself, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will also need to bring a birth certificate or passport for your infant to confirm their age.

Additionally, if you are traveling internationally, you may need to bring additional documents for your infant, such as a visa or health certificate. Be sure to check the requirements for your destination before you travel.

What infant amenities are available on American Airlines flights?

American Airlines offers several amenities for infants on their flights, including changing tables in the lavatories, infant life vests, and complimentary baby food and formula. You can also request a bassinet or child restraint device if you are traveling with an infant under the age of 2.

If you need to warm up a bottle or baby food, flight attendants can provide hot water upon request. However, keep in mind that American Airlines does not have refrigeration or heating capabilities for breast milk or other perishable items.

Can I bring a car seat or stroller for my infant on American Airlines?

Yes, you can bring a car seat or stroller for your infant on American Airlines. If you are traveling with an infant who has their own seat, you can bring a car seat on board as long as it is approved for use on aircrafts.

You can also check a stroller at the gate for free, which will be returned to you at your destination. Alternatively, you can check the stroller with your other baggage at the ticket counter.

Travel With Baby| What to expect at the airport.


In conclusion, American Airlines is one of the many airlines that offer free flights for infants. However, there are some rules and regulations that every traveler needs to follow to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance and communicate with the airline in case you have any special requests or requirements. With a little bit of planning and preparation, traveling with infants can be a breeze.

Remember, infants are not only cute but also require special attention during travel. Therefore, it’s essential to take care of their needs, such as taking extra diapers, feeding bottles, and medication, if required. This will help you avoid any inconvenience or delays during your journey.

Lastly, always remember that traveling with infants can be a great experience and an opportunity to create lasting memories. So, don’t let any doubts or concerns hold you back from exploring the world with your little one. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a new adventure together. Happy travels!

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