Although we’ll always be kids in the eyes of our parents (yes, even when we’re 40 and still getting texted “Did you eat?”), airlines take a slightly more technical approach. In the aviation world, kids are sorted into categories faster than your mom labels Tupperware. And brace yourself — some airlines say you’re no longer a child once you turn 12 (gasp!). Yep, they might even let you travel solo — but maybe don’t tell your parents that part just yet.
So let’s buckle up and take a smooth ride through the different mini-passenger categories — and what sweet perks come with each one!
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Infants: The Most Special (and Smallest!) Travelers (0-2 years)
Infants are a unique category of passengers with their own set of travel rules and requirements. Most airlines welcome infants when they reach seven days old but babies under this age need medical verification from a doctor.
Even at such a tiny age, your little one is already a full-fledged traveler! Traveling internationally requires a passport for infants. Domestic travel requires either identification documents or birth certificates as proof of identity. The infant must obtain a visa when traveling to countries that require this documentation.
Special Rules
Infants usually travel on their guardian’s lap — after all, what better seat than the comfort zone of a parent?
The price of an infant ticket amounts to 10% of adult airfare but some airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet charge a set fee instead of using a percentage system.
A certified Child Restraint System (CRS) allows your infant to occupy their own seat but only in this case. Budget airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet do not permit infant passengers to buy separate seats regardless of using a Child Restraint System.
1 Infant = 1 Guardian Rule
Infants must follow a specific rule when airlines operate their flights.
Why? Each infant requires independent assistance during emergencies because airlines supply only one oxygen mask for each person and one additional mask for infants seated on their lap. That’s why:
- You can’t travel with two infants alone.
If you’re planning a trip with twin babies, you’ll need another adult to join you. - If a second infant is flying with the same adult, one of the infants must have their own seat and use an approved Child Restraint System (CRS) — if the airline allows it (some budget airlines do not).
The Seat Situation:
When flying with your tiny co-pilot, your seating options come with a few rules:
- No emergency exit rows.
The safety regulations of airlines prohibit infant passengers from sitting in emergency exit rows. Babies look cute but they do not perform well during emergency evacuations.
- Special family rows.
Airlines designate specific rows for passengers with infants and small children which typically place them near the front section or by the bulkhead or near bassinet attachments. The designated seating areas provide additional space along with convenient access for flight attendants to help you.
Extra Bags, Stroller and Car Seat Allowance:
Good news for traveling parents: even though your little one doesn’t have their own seat (usually), they do come with extra baggage perks — and we’re not talking about the sleepless nights.
Most airlines provide these benefits to infants regardless of the adult fare type:
- Carry-on allowance for baby essentials
The airline will grant you a small carry-on container to store essential baby items including diapers, bottles, toys and the essential stuffed animal they can’t live without.
- Checked baggage
Infants receive free checked baggage allowance from airlines regardless of the adult fare conditions. The airline has specific weight restrictions for checked baggage which you should review before your flight.
- Free stroller or car seat
Airlines provide free transportation of one stroller or pushchair and one car seat to their passengers. Airports allow stroller access up to the gate which provides a convenient solution for sudden airport naps.
- Travel cots/bassinets for long-haul flights
Travel cots/bassinets available for long-haul flights help passengers with infants during their journey.
The availability of bassinet seats also known as sky cribs on international and long-haul flights is available to infants but booking early is necessary because the number of seats is restricted. These travel cots function as perfect solutions for both your spinal health and your baby’s rest periods.
Rights Under EU 261
EU Regulation 261/2004 establishes passenger rights for flight disruptions but it does not provide equal compensation benefits to infants as it does to adults. EU 261 regulations do not provide financial compensation to infants who are under two years old when flights experience delays or cancellations. EU 261 compensation rules apply to infants when they occupy their own seat through a purchased ticket. The infant will not receive compensation when traveling on their parent’s lap without an assigned seat.
Was your flight disrupted while traveling with your family?
Submit your claim, and our team will take care of everything else. From paperwork to airline negotiations, we handle it all so you can focus on what matters most – your family.
Was Your Flight Disrupted?
Turn your delayed, cancelled or overbooked flight into a compensation up to €600!
Second Category of Travelers: Kids 2–12 Years Old (A.K.A. The Tiny Jetsetters with VIP Perks)
When you’re between 2 and 12 years old, flying is a whole different adventure. You still get some cool perks that make you feel like you’re living your best life while others are just trying to get to their destination. Here are some of the fun privileges you get to enjoy over your average, non-kid traveler:
The Seat Situation
Kids 2-11: Sorry kiddos, no more lap privileges. You gotta get your own seat like a real grown-up! But the upside? You get your own space to sprawl out and maybe even do a little wiggle dance in the aisle.
Extra Bags, Stroller and Car Seat Allowance:
You get your own checked bag to pack your important items: snacks, toys, maybe a few extra pairs of socks… oh, and that giant teddy bear you’ve decided is essential for the flight. And don’t worry, your stroller can come along for the ride too – it’s like your personal airport chariot.
If your flight is delayed or canceled, no worries! You get meals, drinks, and a comfy place to wait like a mini-vacation before you even take off. Hotel stays if it’s a long delay? Sweet! You’re living the luxury life, kiddo. Just don’t get too used to it. Submit a claim together with your parents and we will secure compensation for you as well in case of flight disruption.
Airline and airport staff work to establish the most comfortable and stressless travel experience for children of all ages who accompany their families. The airlines aim to provide an easy and enjoyable experience for all passengers during the journey, such as:
- Dedicated family check-in counters to avoid long lines.
- Priority boarding, so you can get settled in quickly.
- Special infant and children’s menus, because you know, picky eaters.
- Free access to family rooms and play areas at many airports, where kids can burn off energy before the flight.
- In-flight entertainment tailored to young travelers.
- Extra gifts from airlines (who doesn’t love a surprise treat?).
- Special fares for infants and children, making your travel more affordable.
Check your airline free services before your family trip to enhance your travel memories.
We wish you pleasant and hassle-free travels! And if you experience any flight disruptions you think should be compensated, don’t hesitate to fill out this online form and let the team of Skycop do the rest of the work. Don’t miss your chance to get compensated up to 600 Eur!
