Air travel with a newborn can bring up a lot of questions for parents. If you’re wondering “When Newborn Can Fly,” you’re in the right place. Generally, air travel is considered safe for healthy, full-term infants, but there are essential considerations to keep in mind to ensure your baby’s well-being and a smooth journey for everyone.
Key Considerations for Flying with a Newborn
While most healthy newborns can fly safely after they are a few weeks old, it’s important to consider a few factors before booking your tickets.
Age of the Baby and Overall Health
Experts typically advise against flying with a newborn within the first seven days after birth. Some healthcare professionals even recommend waiting a few months before air travel. This is primarily because newborns, especially in their first few weeks, are still adjusting to life outside the womb.
Premature babies, or those born before their due date, require extra caution. Their lungs may not be fully developed, making them potentially vulnerable to changes in cabin pressure and altitude. It’s crucial to consult with your pediatrician before flying if your baby was born prematurely.
Infants with pre-existing health conditions, particularly heart or lung problems, should always be cleared for air travel by a healthcare professional. A doctor can assess your baby’s specific situation and provide tailored advice.
Caregiver Health and Preparedness
Remember that your well-being as a caregiver is also crucial. Traveling with an infant can be demanding, potentially leading to sleep deprivation and increased stress. Ensure you are healthy and prepared for the journey.
Be mindful of potential exposure to illnesses, both in your local area and your destination. Airports and airplanes can be places where germs spread easily. Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, is even more important when traveling with a baby whose immune system is still developing.
Addressing Ear Discomfort
One common concern for parents is their baby’s ear discomfort during flights due to changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: encourage your baby to suck.
Offering a breast, bottle, or pacifier during takeoff and initial descent can help equalize the pressure in your baby’s ears and minimize discomfort. Timing feedings to coincide with these phases of the flight can be a helpful strategy.
If your baby has recently had ear surgery or is currently experiencing an ear infection, consult with your pediatrician about the safety of air travel and any necessary precautions.
Airplane cabin noise, especially during takeoff, can be quite loud. Consider using cotton balls, noise-canceling headphones designed for infants, or small earplugs to reduce your baby’s exposure to loud noises and potentially help them sleep more comfortably.
Ensuring Baby’s Safety Onboard
While airlines often permit infants to sit on a caregiver’s lap during flights, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strongly recommends that infants and small children be secured in certified child safety seats for air travel.
Most infant car seats are certified for use on airplanes. If you prefer not to purchase a separate seat for your infant, inquire about seat availability when boarding. If there are unoccupied seats, it might be possible to have one assigned to your baby, allowing you to use their car seat.
It’s important to avoid giving your baby medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to induce sleep during the flight. This practice is generally discouraged and can sometimes have the opposite effect, causing agitation instead of drowsiness.
Making Informed Decisions About Newborn Air Travel
In summary, while air travel is generally safe for newborns after the first few weeks, careful planning and consideration are essential. Always prioritize your baby’s health and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially if your baby was born prematurely or has any health issues. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your little one.
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. https://publications.aap.org/patiented. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Traveling safely with infants & children. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/family/infants-and-children. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
- AskMayoExpert. Infant Fever. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.
- Schmitt BD. Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.
- Child safety on airplanes. Federal Aviation Administration. https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children/. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.
