Planning air travel with a new baby brings up many questions for parents, and chief among them is often, “How old can an infant fly safely?” Understanding the guidelines and safety considerations is crucial for ensuring a smooth and healthy travel experience for your little one. This guide provides essential information to help you make informed decisions about flying with your infant.
General Safety Guidelines for Infants Flying
While air travel is generally considered safe for infants, especially those born at full term and in good health, there are important factors to consider regarding their age and health.
Recommended Age to Fly
Experts generally advise waiting at least seven days after birth before flying with a newborn. Some healthcare professionals even recommend waiting for a few months if possible. This initial waiting period is primarily due to the fact that newborns, particularly in their first week of life, are still adjusting to life outside the womb and may be more vulnerable to environmental changes and germs.
For healthy, full-term infants beyond the first few weeks, air travel is typically safe. However, it’s always best to consider your baby’s individual health and consult with a healthcare professional, especially for very young infants.
Health Considerations
Premature Infants: Babies born prematurely, or pre-term, may have underdeveloped lungs and respiratory systems. It’s essential to consult with your pediatrician before flying with a premature infant, especially in pressurized airplane cabins or when traveling to high-altitude destinations. They may need more time for their lungs to mature before air travel is advisable.
Infants with Health Conditions: If your infant has any pre-existing heart or lung problems, or any other health concerns, seeking medical clearance from a healthcare professional is imperative before planning air travel. They can assess your baby’s condition and provide personalized recommendations to ensure their safety and well-being during the flight.
Practical Tips for Flying with an Infant
Beyond age and general health, several practical considerations can contribute to a more comfortable and safer flight for your infant.
Ear Pressure and Discomfort
Infants can experience ear discomfort due to changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing. To help alleviate this, encourage your baby to suck on something during these critical phases. Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or offering a pacifier can all be effective in helping to regulate ear pressure and minimize discomfort. Timing feedings to coincide with takeoff and landing can be a useful strategy.
If your baby has recently had ear surgery or is currently suffering from an ear infection, it’s vital to consult with a healthcare professional to determine when it is safe for them to fly.
Additionally, airplane cabins can be noisy, especially during takeoff. Consider using cotton balls, noise-canceling headphones, or small earplugs designed for babies to reduce their exposure to loud noises, which can also help them sleep more comfortably during the flight.
Cabin Air and Germs
While airplanes have air filtration systems, the close proximity to many people in an enclosed space does increase the potential for exposure to germs. A baby’s immune system is still developing, making them potentially more susceptible to illnesses. Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing for caregivers, is crucial to minimize the risk of germ transmission during travel. Being aware of any illnesses prevalent in your departure and arrival locations can also help you take extra precautions.
Infant Safety Seats
For safety during the flight, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that infants ride in properly secured safety seats. While airlines often permit infants to sit on a caregiver’s lap, using a certified infant car seat provides a higher level of protection in case of turbulence or unexpected events. Most infant car seats are certified for air travel. If you prefer to use a car seat but haven’t purchased a separate ticket for your infant, inquire about seat availability upon boarding. If there are unoccupied seats, the airline may be able to accommodate your request to use a car seat.
What to Avoid (Medications)
It is generally not recommended to give your baby medication like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to induce sleep during a flight. Such medications are not advised for this purpose and can sometimes have the opposite effect, causing agitation instead of drowsiness. Focus on natural methods to comfort and settle your baby during the flight.
Expert Recommendations and Further Consultation
Medical professionals and organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasize that while air travel is generally safe for healthy infants after the first few weeks, careful planning and precautions are key. Always prioritize consulting with your pediatrician or a healthcare professional before flying with a very young infant, a premature baby, or an infant with any health concerns. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby’s specific situation, ensuring the safest and most comfortable travel experience possible.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding your infant’s health and air travel.
[References:]
- Jana LA, et al. Flying the family-friendly skies. In: Heading Home With Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality. 4th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2020.
- Newborn-flying and mountain travel. Pediatric Patient Education. American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Traveling safely with infants & children. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024.
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Child safety on airplanes.
