Between airline regulations, medical recommendations, and precautions to take, it can be quite confusing.
This Redion guide is here to help, so that your first flight with baby goes as smoothly as possible!
Most airlines allow babies to travel from the age of 7 days . However, rules vary depending on the airline with which you plan to book your flights. SWISS, for example, is one of the airlines that allows newborns over 7 days old to fly . A medical certificate confirming the child’s fitness to travel will be required for infants under one week old.
Similarly, Air France advises against travel within the first 7 days after birth. Before booking your ticket, make sure the airline you choose does not restrict access based on your child’s age! For instance, Turkish Airlines does not allow children under 2 days old on its flights.
According to SwissDocu , during a flight, cabin pressure changes cause variations in the volume of gases in the ENT cavities. Since babies’ sinuses are not fully developed, they have more difficulty balancing the pressure on either side of the eardrum, which can lead to ear pain .
In addition to this symptom, pressure changes can cause:
According to VIDAL , it is not recommended to travel if your baby has a cold or an ENT infection (especially an ear infection), a fever or flu-like symptoms , or has recently undergone surgery . In case of illness, consult a pediatrician to ensure that air travel is still possible.
A healthcare professional will be able to guide you based on the flight duration, your infant’s ENT history, or your destination, so you can travel with peace of mind. For older children, vaccination recommendations may also be issued depending on the countries you plan to visit.
Several effective techniques can help your infant better cope with the flight.
Among them, for example:
Every baby must have their own identity documents to travel. For travel within Europe, the accepted documents are:
Outside of Europe, only a passport is required. However, some destinations may also require a visa : make sure to check before heading to the airport! Also, keep in mind that a baby’s face changes significantly in just a few months. It may therefore be wise to renew their identity documents before they expire, so your child remains recognizable!
According to SWISS , children under the age of 5 are not allowed to travel alone . Between the ages of 5 and 11, they may do so, but only if accompanied by someone at least 12 years old.
For trips with only one parent or a third party , it is strongly recommended to carry a written and signed travel authorization from the non-accompanying parent, even if it is not systematically required by Switzerland.
This precaution is especially important if the child has a different last name from the accompanying parent. In that case, be sure to bring your family record book to prove parentage.
Airlines apply specific pricing for children, mainly based on their age at the time of travel. This distinction determines not only the ticket price but also the required safety equipment.
If your child is under 2 years old, most airlines offer two options:
For children aged 2 and over, an individual seat becomes mandatory. Fares then vary depending on the airline and destination.
The choice of safety equipment for your baby depends on several factors, including age, weight, and flight duration.
Here are the main solutions offered by airlines:
Technically, an infant can fly from 7 days old, depending on the airline. If you need to travel before that, most airlines will require a medical certificate confirming the baby is fit to fly. Of course, for your baby’s comfort and safety, it’s best to wait a little longer before flying.
Yes, baby water is not subject to cabin liquid restrictions , just like powdered milk or baby food jars. You can bring the amount needed for the trip. Security agents may ask to taste the product for verification. However, for all other liquids and care products, they must be placed in 100 mL containers.
A 7-month-old baby can absolutely fly . It’s even an ideal age, as their immune system is more developed than that of a newborn. They may also be eligible for a bassinet if their weight still allows (usually under 10–12 kg and 70–80 cm).
Flights pose no particular danger for a healthy baby. The main challenges are related to pressure changes and dry cabin air, which can be easily managed with simple precautions.
Some airlines offer free bassinets , generally reserved for babies under 10 months, weighing less than 12 kg and measuring less than 80 cm. These cribs attach to cabin walls and must be reserved in advance.
It’s recommended to choose a window seat for more privacy during breastfeeding, or a front-row seat to benefit from a bassinet and extra legroom. Note that if you’re flying with an airline like SWISS, you may be allowed to bring your own seat on board (as long as it’s certified and meets the airline’s size requirements).
If the baby travels on your lap, the airline provides an additional lap belt . For added safety, you can also use an approved car seat on an individual seat.
A baby must have their own identity documents : an ID card for travel within Europe or a passport for other destinations. Preferably, as it may be requested, we recommend also bringing your family record book in paper or digital format. Documents must be valid—and recent! This is especially important for babies, as their appearance changes quickly. Check which documents are required based on the countries you’re visiting and the length of your stay. In some cases, a visa may also be necessary.
Yes, nearly all airlines allow one stroller per child to be transported free of charge. According to SWISS , you can bring a fully foldable stroller or travel stroller at no extra cost. The usual process is as follows : in most airports, you can use your stroller up to the boarding gate, which is very convenient for carrying your baby and their belongings. At the gate, the crew takes care of the stroller and stores it. Important condition : the stroller must be fully foldable. Check with your airline during baggage check-in to confirm the exact terms!
Your baby’s first flight requires careful preparation to ensure the comfort of the whole family. Here are the essential tips to follow before departure:
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