Ever sat sipping chai, staring at cheap flight ticket prices, and wondered: “Do babies fly free?” That question has echoed in many Indian parents’ heads while booking a family holiday. Well… they do, but there are some loopholes, so here’s the best guide you need when flying with babies to bring their ticket price down to zero!
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The Mystery of “Free Flights” for Babies
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In daily chatter, many claim “babies fly free” on domestic Indian flights. And yes, when travelling within India, most airlines let infants (usually under 2 years) travel without a separate seat. But “free” often means no adult fare, not no cost whatsoever. Some airlines charge taxes, airport fees, or a small infant fare.
On international routes, “Do babies fly free internationally?” becomes a trickier question. Many airlines will charge 10% of the adult fare plus taxes for an infant travelling on the lap.
In short: yes, babies can sometimes fly with minimal cost, but “free” is a stretch when crossed with airport charges, policy quirks, and airline rules.
Till What Age Babies Fly Free?
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Most carriers treat children over 7 days and under 2 years (i.e., <24 months) as infants. Once a child turns 2 (even mid-trip), airlines typically demand a full ticket. So “how long do babies fly free?” is often “up to 2 years / 24 months.”
Is your child turning two mid-flight? That’s great! But, also not, as you’ll have to pay for their infant flight ticket and seat. If you’re forced to spend on the seat, save by securing all-inclusive holiday tour packages, perfect for family, couple, and solo travel!
Minimum Age for Flying
Infants younger than 7 days cannot travel on a flight, and a few other airlines also insist that be child be over 14 days old to be allowed on board. If travelling before, you must bring along a doctor’s certificate and get special approval from the airline.
Explore: Here’s Why Every Mom-to-be is Planning her Babymoon in Dubai!
The Dance of Documents: Infant Passport, Papers & Proof
Reminiscent of trying to board a train with a half-filled ticket, one can’t expect to breeze past airport counters without paperwork. Some documents required for travel are:
For domestic flights:
- Birth certificate
- Vaccination certificate
- Hospital discharge summary
- Aadhar card (if available)
For international flights, the baby needs an infant passport India and a visa, depending on the destination. To know if your baby requires a visa, get in touch with online visa services India, which will also manage the application and delivery at your doorstep.
Please note: If the baby is travelling with someone other than the parents, a consent letter, ID of the parents, and proof of relationship are required.
AT Tip: Documents required for infant passport include passport-size photographs, the baby’s birth certificate, parents’ personal documents and address proof, and a signed Annexure H form. Infant passports are usually valid for 5 years.
Infant Baggage Allowance & Other Perks
Image credit: Unsplash/Paul Hanaoka
Infants travelling on the lap get a checked baggage allowance of typically 10 kg on many Indian carriers. Also allowed are bottles, baby food, diaper bag in carry-on, as per flight rules for babies. Many airlines offer bassinets (bulkhead seats) free or on request (subject to availability).
If you choose to book a seat for your baby (instead of lap travel), that child becomes much like a normal child fare with baggage and seat privileges.
Airlines may also give priority boarding, help with hot water, earplugs (for ear-pressure), etc.
Discover: Air Travel with Infant: An Ultimate Baby on Board Guide Every Parent Needs.
So, next time anyone asks you can babies fly free, you know what to say, right? Since you’re not spending on your infant’s ticket, secure reservations with the best hotel bookings online to enjoy the best family escape of your dreams!
Summing Up
Do babies fly free? Yes, on domestic flights, especially as kids younger than 2 years can enjoy free travel when sitting on the lap. But for international routes, airlines typically charge a lap-infant fare, up to 10% of the adult fare. Parents must gather documents like an Infant passport, birth certificate, and a doctor’s certificate when travelling. Kids flying free also get free baggage allowance up to 10 kg!
FAQs: Do Babies Fly Free
Do babies fly free in India?
Yes, babies younger than 24 months can fly for free on their parents’ lap in India.
Does a baby get free flights for life if born on a plane?
No, just because a baby is born on a plane doesn’t give them the gift of free flights for life. However, certain airlines might provide some benefits, but it is very rare to find them in India.
What age can a baby travel on plane for free?
Babies between 7 or 14 days to 2 years can travel for free by plane to domestic destinations. When flying to international destinations, a 10% surcharge is applied to baby tickets.
What are the rules when flying with a baby?
Parents must carry a birth certificate to show proof of the child’s age when flying on a plane. Kids below 2 years can also travel on the lap for free, and enjoy a baggage allowance of up to 10 kg.
How much luggage is allowed for a baby in a flight?
Babies are given a complimentary luggage allowance of 10 kg. Parents might also be allowed to carry a bassinet and other baby necessities on board, depending on the airline you choose.
Which airlines do babies fly free?
Certain Indian airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet offer free travel or travel at Rs. 1 for babies.
Get more information:
- 8 Bollywood Celeb-Inspired Babymoon Destinations.
- A Scientific Guide on How to Sleep On a Plane Even with a Crying Baby on Board.
- Family Friendly Hotels in Mumbai with Kids’ Clubs & Activities
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