Bassinets on Airplanes – What You NEED To Know

Bassinets on airplanes sound like something out of a science fiction story, but they might be a lifesaver for parents. Having a little extra legroom is nice, but being able to set your baby up in a small bed for a long flight can help you both travel easier.

Flying with a baby can be stressful under the best of circumstances but a long flight can be downright exhausting. Thankfully, many airlines offer bassinets on airplanes that can give you a small break while your little one naps.

In this post we’ll answer all your questions:

• What is an Airplane Bassinet?
• How do you get a Baby Bassinet on a Flight?
• What seats do you need to get Bassinets on Airplanes?
• What do Bassinets on Planes cost?
• Will my Flight have an Airplane Bassinet?
• Which Airlines provide Bassinets?
• and more…

This post contains compensated links.

What Is an Airplane Bassinet?

Airplane bassinets are exactly what they sound like, small beds for infants on planes. The specially-designed baskets or cots attach to the plane, usually near bulkhead seats. Airlines may also refer to them as baskets, cots, or skycots.

Parents can reserve the bulkhead seats (typically at a cost) and have the bassinet attached in front of them. It’s convenient for long haul flights with a baby so that you don’t have to hold your little one the entire time.

Not all aircraft accommodate bassinets and the ones that do typically have a very limited number available.

Each airline features slightly different bassinets. Additionally, each airline has unique policies about the bassinets and how to secure one.

What Does a Baby Bassinet in an Airplane Look Like?

A bassinet in an airplane looks like a standard bassinet but it attaches to the bulkhead wall on the plane. It’s typically a simple rectangular basket that the flight crew can easily install and remove.

Some airlines, like British Airways, use a bouncer seat anchored to a flat surface for babies older than six months or who can sit up.

Which Seats Do You Need to Secure an Airplane Bassinet?

It depends on the airline and the aircraft you will fly in, but most bassinets attach to a bulkhead wall. That means you need to secure a seat in the bulkhead or one of the premium cabins. 

Bulkhead seats typically have armrests that don’t move and offer some extra space to accommodate the bassinets. Some airlines have custom setups in their premium cabins that offer more flexibility and security.

Most airlines follow similar guidelines regarding the location of infant-friendly seats on airplanes. They exclude emergency exit rows, some aisle seats, and any locations that could obstruct other passengers.

Is It Safe to Use an Infant Bassinet on an Airplane?

It is safe to use an infant bassinet on airplanes. That said, this airplane baby bed may not be the safest option for all children in every situation. 

Airplane bassinets work for infants who cannot sit up on their own. They offer a reprieve for parents on long flights, let the child stretch out a bit, and make it possible for everyone to rest. 

Bassinets on airplanes lack proper restraints to secure the infant for the entire flight. Most of them only have a single velcro strap that won’t do much to hold a wriggling infant in check or prevent jostling during turbulence.

It’s still safest to have your baby in a FAA approved car seat on the plane in their own seat, but buying a seat for baby isn’t an option for everyone.

When You Can Use an Airplane Bassinet for Baby 

Even if an airline offers a bassinet in flight, it’s not something you can use for the entire trip. Please note that all airlines require that infants are held during the take-off and landing.

Once the plane is at cruising altitude, the flight attendants will come around and install the airplane bassinets.

Additionally, if you encounter turbulence, the flight attendants will ask you to remove your baby from the plane bassinet

You can also expect the flight attendants to disassemble the airplane baby bassinet before your descent. 

Are There Age or Weight Limits on Airplane Bassinets?

Yes, there are weight, length, and age limits for inflight bassinets. Each airline sets its own limitations based on the equipment they have available. 

Most airlines have a maximum weight limit for airplane bassinets of between 20 and 25 pounds.

The length maximums vary based on the type of bassinet or cot and what it can handle. For example, bouncy seats on a flat surface can typically accommodate taller children than an enclosed cot.

Airlines usually limit the age to those under the age of two, but some only allow babies under 12 months to use the airplane bassinets. Plus, many airlines give priority to the youngest and smallest infants if they have too many requests.

How Much Do Bassinets on Airplanes Cost? 

It depends on the airline. Most airlines offer the bassinets free of charge but you have to pay for to reserve and upgrade to the bulkhead seat.

Even if you are flying with a lap infant, international flight tickets for an infant can cost a percentage of an adult fare.

Pros and Cons of Airplane Bassinets

If you’re having trouble deciding whether or not to use a bassinet in flight, it might help to run down the pros and cons of airline bassinets. The most obvious benefit of using bassinets on airplanes is that you and your baby have room to stretch out on a long flight. 

• It’s cheaper than paying for another seat and using your child’s car seat on the flight.
  
• You don’t have to carry as many things onto the plane and worry about whether or not your car seat fits.
  
• You can use a CoziGo Bassinet cover to block stimulation on the plane and help your baby sleep better.
  
• It’s easier for you to eat when you have hands free!

There are some drawbacks to traveling light and using the airplane cots, since you’re basically still flying with a lap infant.

• The airline doesn’t guarantee that you can get one, so you have to be prepared to have your baby on your lap the entire time.
  
• They are always offered on a first-come-first-serve basis and often go to the youngest babies first.
  
• The airplane bassinet seats at the bulkhead row are close to bathrooms where people tend to congregate so it can be louder.
  
• You may have to wake your baby when there is turbulence and you have to remove your baby from the airplane bassinet.

Always remember that the bassinet for plane travel may not be the safest option for your infant. If your baby is large for their size, they may not fit safely inside the bassinet on a plane.

Little ones who move around a lot may not be as comfortable or safe inside a baby airplane bassinet, especially those who can’t miss anything and like to see what’s happening around them.

Tips for a Smoother Flight with an Infant in an Airplane Bassinet

Once you decide that you want to take advantage of a bassinet seat on an airplane, you might want to consider some extras to make that flight a little smoother. They can also help you work through baby jet lag once you reach your destination.

Bassinet covers and white noise machines can help soothe your little one. Make sure you check with your flight crew to confirm that they allow the airplane bassinet cover and sound machine you plan to use. 

Airplane Bassinet Covers 

If you have a distractible little one or want to keep strangers from peeking in on your sleeping infant, an airplane bassinet cover can help.

The covers slip over the bassinets on airplanes like a tent and offer protection from light, drafts, and noise around the bulkhead area. 

While some parents don’t like not being able to see their baby during the flight these covers  usually have a zippered side that lets you take a peek. In addition, flight attendants may require you to leave a section open, so they can look in on your baby in case you fall asleep as well.

The Cozigo airplane bassinet cover is the only one made specifically for use on airplanes.

The CoziGo bassient cover is a popular option for infants who need something to block out distractions so they can sleep. Plus, the universal fit means the CoziGo Airplane Bassinet Cover doubles as a stroller cover to protect infants from the sun and elements.

• Cozigo bassinet cover is easy to use because it connects with a clip and easily pops into place over your stroller or the bassinets on airplanes.
  
• It packs into a small bag and only weighs 1.3 pounds, making it easy to carry.
  
• The closed environment provided by Cozigo helps protect your infant from germs that may be circulating on the airplane and limits exposure to unwanted germs.
  
• The fabric is dark enough to block out light but uses breathable woven fabric that won’t make your baby uncomfortable or cause overheating.

Sound Machines

White noise machines, if used at home, can help to replicate your baby’s sleep environment at home and help your baby sleep on vacation.

They also work well on the airplane to help block additional noise, just keep the volume low so you don’t disrupt other passengers.

Make a Contingency Plan

One of the drawbacks of choosing to fly with a lap infant in hopes of getting an airplane bassinet on your flight is that it’s not guaranteed.

Many things could go wrong and lead to that bassinet falling through for you and your baby. Having a contingency plan in place means less stress for everyone involved.

It’s a good idea to plan on your little one sitting on your lap and taking a baby carrier to limit your fatigue and free up your hands.

Some parents will fly with their Boppy nursing pillow to make it more comfortable for their baby. This also works well for flying and breastfeeding.

You might even get lucky and have an empty seat beside you, where you can bring your car seat on board or even have a place to lie your baby down when cruising and the seat belt light is off.

Be Patient But Persistent

Traveling can be stressful under the best of circumstances, but taking out frustrations on the flight crew is no way to make things better. Your best course of action is to be as polite and patient as possible. It might take some extra legwork on your part, but it’s worth the effort in the end.

• Keep track of all contacts with the airline about reserving a bassinet and your seating. Note names and dates for future reference.
  
• Take snapshots of the company’s policy on bassinets, including weights, ages, and use of covers. The crew might not know the policies so it helps to have that available.
  
• If the crew seems to forget you, gently remind them about the bassinet.

Remember, different airlines might use different words to describe bassinets and covers. It helps to familiarize yourself with the terminology used for that particular airline bassinet.

If the airline refers to bassinets as skycots, then use that term when speaking with any of the crew.

How To Book an Airplane Seat with Bassinet

Knowing that you want an airplane bassinet is only half the battle, as you also have to reserve bulkhead seats and the airplane bassinet. There are many things to consider when booking a bassinet on an airplane.

Deal with the Airline Directly vs. Third Party Booking

Your best chance at securing a bassinet in flight is to call the airline instead of using the website. Be prepared to be on hold for an extended period, so clear your calendar.

Some airlines have a call-back feature rather than making you wait on hold.

Remember most airlines have limited airplane bassinets available and reserve them on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s in your best interest to book your flight well in advance. Note that most airlines will not let you request a bassinet for an unborn child.

When you place your call, have all of your personal information on hand and a pen and paper to write down the essential details. Ask for bulkhead seats and state that you will have an infant needing an airplane bassinet.

Third-party booking companies like Kayak and Expedia often give you the best prices on tickets, making them a tempting option. However, they cannot typically select bassinet seats on flights. That means you still have to call the airline.

Use a Travel Agent

Experienced travel agents might help secure a bassinet for your baby. Ask if they are familiar with the process and emphasize the importance of having one for your flight.

Many times the agent will do the legwork to secure the bassinet and save you a lot of precious time.

Take the Most Direct Flight Possible

Unfortunately, bassinets are typically only available on long-haul flights. Every time you have to change flights your chances of getting an airplane bassinet on the next one drop a little more. If you change airlines, it’s even more challenging. 

You will have to call each airline to secure your bassinet seats which may take a lot of time and persistence.

Be aware of codeshare flights where another airline operates your flight. You may not be able to confirm the bassinet until you check in. 

Check Restrictions for Each Flight

Do you remember how each airline has unique guidelines for airplane bassinets? It’s possible that your infant could fit in the bassinet on your first leg but not the one on your second leg.

You need to double-check for the size and age restrictions for every flight you take.

Further, you might not be able to sit with your entire party if you are traveling with several people. Airlines like to accommodate as many infants and families as they can, so it might not be possible to have a large party sit in the bassinet section.

Follow up Before You Fly 

Traveling on airlines, especially these days, can be problematic. To be sure that all goes well with your flight, be sure to book well in advance and follow up a couple of weeks before your flight.

Yes, you will have to carve out a niche of time to spend on the phone. However, you will have peace of mind if you can verify that your reservation still includes the baby bassinet on the plane. 

It’s in your best interest to double and triple-check that you have a bassinet. You should be able to check your seats on a seat map through the airline app to make sure it’s right.

Ask again when you check-in to make sure things are set. It doesn’t hurt to follow up at the gate to make sure the entire crew knows who you are and that you requested a baby cot for the flight.

Alternatives to Using Bassinets on Airplanes

Even if your airline offers a bassinet for baby in flight, you might want to consider an alternative. The two most common options are holding your baby in your lap or purchasing a seat for your baby.

Holding Your Infant in Your Lap

Holding your baby in your lap for the flight is typically the cheapest option. Aside from saving you some money on the flight, there are some definite perks and drawbacks to consider before committing to a lap baby, especially on long-haul flights.

• Most airlines don’t charge for lap infants (domestic flights) or only request a nominal fare (international flights). 
  
• You can see your child and comfort them if they get fussy.
  
• Feeding is easier throughout the flight.

Unfortunately, you have to hold your child the entire time. If you don’t have a companion to share the duties with, it can be exhausting and make the flight seem that much longer.

Nobody wants to think about their baby getting injured on a flight, but the risk is there that your baby could be hurt or worse in the event of turbulence or a crash. It’s unlikely that you will be able to hold your baby if there is extreme turbulence or a crash.

Periods of high turbulence can also make it challenging to secure a lap infant. Not only does it impact the child’s safety, but it can also affect the parent and other passengers.

Several domestic and international agencies have put forth recommendations that children under two years of age should be properly restrained in a suitable car seat.

Car Seats and Purchasing Airplane Seats for Infants

The other alternative is to purchase a seat for your baby and use their car seat. While this option can cost you substantially more, there are several benefits to giving your child their own seat. 

Safety

As noted above, there are significant safety concerns about holding an infant during certain situations. Car seats are recommended as the safest way for infants and young children to travel on airplanes.

Approved and certified car seats secure your child during all stages of the flight. You can strap them in before takeoff and know they are safe and sound in their seat. It’s even possible to use covers and canopies, like the CoziGo cover or a SnoozeShade, to give your baby privacy and make it darker to keep them on a sleep schedule.

Plus if your baby is safely in the car seat, you won’t need to wake your baby to hold during turbulence.

Comfort Level 

There is no doubt that bassinets give parents a reprieve from holding their infants and even make things easier on nursing mothers. However, the bassinet is a strange space amid entirely new experiences. 

A pro for the car seat is that some infants find comfort in the familiarity of their car seats.

It’s also more comfortable for you because you don’t have to worry about holding your child during taxiing, takeoff, landing, and any periods of turbulence.

Size Constraints 

There are requirements regarding airplane bassinet weight limit and length for babies who will be utilizing a bassinet. If your baby is on the verge of not meeting those requirements and you have booked several weeks in advance, you may be out of luck if your baby has a growth spurt before your trip.

If your baby is close to exceeding the limits, you may want to consider using a car seat or holding the baby in your lap for your flight.

This will prevent any unfortunate situations where you may be denied using the reserved airplane bassinet. 

Which Major Airlines Offer Bassinets On Airplanes?

Not all airlines offer bassinets on airplanes and the ones that do have unique policies. It can be downright confusing and frustrating to keep things straight, especially if you have to switch airlines during a trip. 

Here is a guide to all major airlines and their respective policies on airplane bassinets, but here’s what you should do as soon as you have your flight booked:

1. Check your flight information to confirm who is operating the flight and the plane type.
   
2. Search for travel with children for your specific airline. Confirm if airplane bassinets are available for your flight.
   
3. Call your airline to reserve the bulkhead seats and an airplane bassinet.

In fact, some of these steps can be done before you purchase your flight. Even a quick search on Expedia will show me the flight details (which are subject to change).

I can see a Lufthansa flight is actually operated by Air Canada. A quick search on “air canada traveling with children” shows me that Air Canada does have bassinets and even which aircraft they are available on.

Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus allows passengers on transatlantic flights to pre-book baby bassinet seats, though there is a limited number available.

The airline also allows parents to secure seats for their babies and use a car seat. However, infants with confirmed seats cannot use bassinets on the airplane because you cannot use both.

Of note, Aer Lingus Regional flights have separate guidelines. Flight numbers 3000 through 3999 only allow children to sit on a parent’s lap. There is an additional fee for lap infants and there can only be eight infants per flight.

Aeroflot

The Russian airline provides bassinets for children weighing less than 24 pounds who are under twelve months of age. Aeroflot airplanes offer a limited number of bassinets and require you to confirm at least 36 hours ahead of your flight with the sales office customer service.

Flight crew will verify your child’s weight and length at check-in to ensure they can safely use the bassinet. The attendants will also show you how to use the bassinet and changing table on board. Aeroflot provides wipes, nappies, and other infant necessities if necessary.

Aeromexico

Aeromexico flights offer a few bassinets for infants weighing less than 24 pounds. They are free but require pre-booking and are first-come, first-served. You must pay for an AM Plus seat to get the free crib in flight. Aeromexico also requires parents to participate in priority boarding to learn how to use the crib.

Children six days old up to two years old qualify as infants and can fly free of charge on domestic flights. International flights require a reduced fare, and Aeromexico does issue a boarding pass for all flights.

Air Canada

Air Canada offers baby bassinets on specific aircraft, but they are subject to availability. You can request one ahead of time, but the airline does not confirm a bassinet until departure. Infants must weigh less than 25 pounds and be unable to sit upright to use one.

Of note, Air Canada suggests that parents use a Child Restraint Device on all flights instead of holding babies on their lap. The airline notes that car seats and restraints must be certified for flying.

Air France

Families flying with Air France can secure a bassinet for all long-haul flights. They are available in the Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins, but there is a limited number available. The airline also offers baby kits for infants, including a blanket and bib.

Contact the airline as soon as possible, preferably at booking but no less than 48 hours before your flight to request a bassinet. The bassinets on airplanes hold infants up to 22 pounds and less than 27 inches long.

Air France notes that it’s possible to purchase an individual seat and use a certified car seat for your infant, but not all aircraft can support them. It’s important to contact the airline and ask about the safest option for your infant.

The airline does not permit convertible bags or inflatable mattresses that allow children or infants to lay horizontally on the plane. 

Air India

If you travel via Air India and require a bassinet in flight, simply contact the airline to let them know you need adjoining seats for you and your child. Bassinets are free of charge but subject to availability.

Since not all aircraft have bassinets available, the airline urges parents to click on the Infant Amenity icon for their flight to see what’s offered. You can also contact the customer service line for more information about your flight and what’s available.

Air India does require parents to pay a reduced fare for all children under two years of age. The standard fare is 10% of the normal adult fare, but there may be exceptions. 

Children under 14 days old cannot travel domestically or internationally via Air India. The airline notes some exceptions, including life-saving treatment.

Air Mauritius

Don’t ask for a bassinet on Air Mauritius because they call them cots. All international flights offer a limited number of infant cots and require pre-booking to secure one. It’s best to request a baby cot in flight when you book and then confirm at check-in with the flight crew.

The airplane baby cot weight limit is 24 pounds and up to 29 inches long. Since the crew stows cots for take-off and landing, they provide a support harness for holding your infant in your lap at those times. Additionally, Air Mauritius provides a baby travel kit on most flights.

Air Mauritius permits you to purchase a seat for an infant if they sit in an approved car seat. You can also bring an inflight bed or leg rest extension that meets the special conditions set forth by the airline.

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand allows you to bring an array of travel devices with you, or the airline offers baby bassinets on many flights. All bassinets attach to the front wall of the economy cabin and include sheets, a pillow, and blankets for comfort.

These airplane bassinets hold infants up to 26 pounds and 29 inches long. The airline suggests booking the bassinet ahead of time using Seat Select. There is a small charge for selecting a seat, but there is a bassinet icon designating the bassinet seats.

You can also book a seat for your infant and use a car seat to secure them. It must be a window or middle seat and all car seats need to bear proper certification seals. You can also secure an Economy Skycouch for additional comfort and space.

Air Seychelles

This airline mentions infants as passengers but there is no information available about bassinets on airplanes. Notably, Air Seychelles updated its domestic travel policy for newborn babies in 2018. Parents must provide medical clearance to fly for infants less than seven days old.

Air Transat

Air Transat offers perks to families traveling with children but does not mention offering bassinets. The airline does note that children under the age of two years are considered infants and can sit on an adult’s lap for the flight.

Lap infants are free for all domestic and southern flights, though some destinations might have taxes and fees for the trip. Expect to pay 10% of the regular ticket price for transatlantic flights plus any associated taxes and fees.

Alaska Air

Alaska Air does not offer bassinets on their flights. Adults must add lap infants to their tickets by contacting the reservations desk. Lap infants fly for free, but there may be associated taxes and fees based on the destination.

While the airline doesn’t set a minimum age for travel, it has several restrictions for traveling with a lap infant. All flights limit the number of infants per row because of the location of extra oxygen masks on different aircraft. You cannot sit in emergency exit rows or the rows immediately next to them on flights 001 through 1999.

American Airlines

American Airlines offers bassinets on some flights (the 777-200, 777-300, or 787 planes), but not in First or Business class. The bassinets are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis when you check-in.

You can fly with an infant in your lap but must add them to your reservation. Lap infants fly free except for international flights that may include additional fees or a percentage of the adult’s fare.

Infants as young as two days old can fly on American Airlines, but any children under 7 days old require a medical form to fly. A special coordinator will work with you and your physician in these cases.

ANA

ANA offers bassinets on international flights that accommodate babies up to 20 pounds. Infants must be at least 8 days old to fly on any ANA aircraft. There are limited bassinets available and they can vary by flight to fit the aircraft. Expect to pay a fare for infants that is typically 10% of the adult’s fare. 

ANA also permits some carry-on beds in the window or middle seats. You cannot use them during take-off, landing, taxiing, or during turbulence. 

Infants can have their own seats provided they travel in a safety seat. They cannot travel in First Class or Business Class on some aircraft and ANA reserves the right to change your seats to meet safety requirements.

Asiana Airlines

Families using Asiana Airlines for international flights can request a bassinet on some planes. You must contact the airline to add a bassinet after making your reservation or at least 48 hours before your flight.

There are weight and length restrictions based on the travel class, and they must be reserved before the flight. Most bassinets can carry infants up to 30 pounds and 30 inches long. Some of the smaller aircraft can only manage babies weighing less than 22 pounds.

Asiana Airlines also rents car seats that meet safety requirements. Request the car seat through the reservation center up to a week ahead of the flight.

Infants less than a week old cannot fly on Asiana Airlines unless it’s necessary and the company receives medical clearance. 

Avianca Airlines

Avianca Airlines allows guests to purchase baby cot or bassinet service on airplanes for babies. The child must be one year old or younger, less than 24 pounds, and shorter than 29 inches. There is no guarantee that you get a bassinet and there are only three available per plane.

Infants must be at least 10 days old to travel on Avianca Airlines and you must present medical certificates authorizing travel. Avianca Airlines charges an infant ticket fare for passengers holding their child on the flight. 

British Airways

British Airways allows passengers to book a separate seat for infants, travel with them on their lap, or select a seat with a carrycot. The airline permits the use of AmSafe Child Aviation Restraint Systems, certified car seats, CoziGo bassinet covers, and other approved support systems.

The airline provides carrycots and infant seats are free of charge. Carrycots serve infants up to six months of age and work with a CoziGo cover. Baby airplane seats hold older babies and for anyone flying with toddlers, as they can be used up to 24 months and 27.5 pounds. 

One thing British Airways offers is free seat selection for the entire party. Up to nine people in a party can choose seating to sit together without paying a fee. However, if you want a carrycot, only one person can select it.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific offers bassinets on flights, except for those in an Airbus A321. The baby bassinets accommodate infants under six months who weigh less than 26.5 pounds. Cathay Pacific recommends a safety seat for those older than six months of age.

You can hold an infant in your lap as long as they are over 7 days old and under 24 months. Lap infants travel free but can still have baggage on most flights. 

China Airlines

Most flights through China Airlines have a few bassinets available for infants less than six months old, shorter than 28 inches, and weighing under 24 pounds. The ERJ/A321neo aircraft are the only ones that do not have bassinets.

Request the airplane bulkhead bassinets when you book the flight. If you do not purchase a ticket and seat for your child, you must pay the infant fare. Note that infants must be at least 14 days old to fly on China Airlines flights.

China Southern Airlines

Travelers can reserve baby cradles on flights for infants from 14 days old up to twelve months old. Applicable flights include those that are at least three hours and involve specific aircraft. You must sit in Economy class or Premium Economy class to secure an infant bassinet.

Apply for a bassinet at least 24 hours before your flight and pay the infant fare, usually 10% of the adult ticket. Height and weight limitations apply where the maximum weight is 25 pounds and length is 27.5 inches for these cradles.

Condor 

Condor charges a fee for toddlers under two years old, even if you hold them on your lap. The airline suggests booking a seat and using a child safety seat to secure all infants. While the company offers a range of baby supplies on long-haul flights, it doesn’t provide bassinets.

Of note, Condor does not permit adults to fly with more than one child under the age of two.

Czech Airlines

Infants traveling on Czech Airlines can sit on an adult’s lap, in a certified car seat, or in a baby cot. The airline cites a plane bassinet weight limit of 24 pounds for their baby cots and note that they are only available on certain aircraft. Request the cot through reservations when booking your seat.

Lap infants incur a fee equal to 10% of the adult’s fare. Purchasing a seat for your child is typically 75% of the regular adult fare. 

Delta Airlines

Delta offers SkyCots for infants under 20 pounds who travel on international flights. SkyCots are free and can be reserved ahead of time, but there are only two available per aircraft. International flights typically involve a reduced fare depending on the destination.

Children must be at least seven days old to travel and all children under two years old must travel with an adult who is at least 18 years old.

EasyJet 

EasyJet does not offer you a bassinet for baby on airplanes, but they allow you to check extra items for free. Babies must be at least 14 days old to fly on EasyJet aircraft.

EL AL 

EL AL notes that most of the airline’s aircraft feature bassinets though there are a limited number available. Request one in advance to get priority on your flight. 

Infants must be at least seven days old but less than nine months old to use a bassinet. This airline’s bassinets accommodate infants weighing up to 39 pounds and up to 29 inches long. The airline notes that the flight crew can refuse a bassinet if they feel it is unsafe for the child. 

This airline recommends purchasing a full ticket for your child and flying with a certified safety seat. EL AL’s crew can also assist with heating baby food or bottles if necessary.

Emirates

Emirates Airlines offers a limited number of bassinets on each flight. You can request one when you book or shortly after because you need to choose from special seats that can accommodate the bassinet. Baby bassinets hold infants up to 24 pounds but the maximum length varies depending on the travel class and aircraft.

Infants must be at least 7 days old to fly and under 6 months of age to use a bassinet. Once a child is six months old, the airline requires them to ride in a car seat. Children up to 36 months of age who use a rear-facing car seat must be in the bulkhead row.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways offers limited bassinets on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must weigh less than 24 pounds to use a bassinet. You must pay an infant fare whether you use the bassinet or hold them in your lap.

Request the bassinet at booking or through the Manage My Booking feature. Note that the airline requires you to use an infant harness when you hold your infant during the flight.

EVA Air

You can request a baby bassinet on most flights with EVA Air, but there are different sizes available depending on the plane size. The airline requests that you provide your child’s length and weight when booking to ensure they can fit safely in the bassinet.

Infants must be at least 7 days old to travel and less than two years old to qualify for a bassinet. The airline recommends all infants use a car seat and have their own seat on the flight.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier does not offer bassinets for infants. The airline permits infants to sit on an adult’s lap throughout the flight but strongly recommends purchasing a ticket and using a car seat. Lap infants do not pay a fare.

Garuda Indonesia

Garuda Indonesia offers baby bassinets on select flights. Request the free service ahead of time for infants weighing less than 19.8 pounds. The downside is that you won’t receive confirmation until you arrive at check-in.

Children must be at least six months old to occupy their own seat with an infant seat or car seat. The airline does permit children to use travel sleeping devices in window seats. However, you must stow the devices during take-off and landing.

Gulf Air

Gulf Air offers free onboard bassinets or carry-cots for infants under seven months and weighing less than 21 pounds. You may need to provide height and weight to ensure your child fits in the airline’s bassinets.

The airline notes that they have limited numbers available, so it’s best to request a bassinet at booking. You will pay a child fare on these flights. Further, you cannot get a bassinet if you fly in the Falcon Gold Cabin of the Boeing Dreamliner 787.

Infants up to six months old can sit on a parent’s lap with an infant seat belt provided by the flight crew. Those children between six months and two years who sit on a parent’s lap can use an infant seat belt. The airline recommends purchasing a seat and using a car seat for all children six months and older.

JetBlue

Though JetBlue is famously family-friendly, it does not offer bassinets for infants. Children three days old up to two years old can travel for free on an adult’s lap within the United States. International flights typically incur fees and taxes for lap infants.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines offers infant bassinets on international flights from twelve cities. You need to reserve the bassinet ahead of time and select an Extra Comfort seat. The bassinets accommodate infants under 20 pounds.

There is a chance that you could secure a bassinet without splurging on an Extra Comfort seat. They are first-come, first-served at the gate, so it’s not a guarantee that you can get one.

Iberia

This airline offers a limited number of cots on international flights. They accommodate infants less than eight months old who weigh under 24 pounds. Bassinets require the adult to book seats in a designated area.

Children under two without their own seats pay a fare between 10% and 30% of the normal adult rate. 

Icelandair

Icelandair requires parents to purchase a reduced fare ticket for all infants but the airline does not offer bassinets. Infants under two years old can sit on a parent’s lap, but the airline suggests purchasing a ticket and using a child safety seat.

ITA Airways

ITA Airways offers “on-board bassinet” service for some of the long flights. This service requires pre-booking and is not guaranteed. Infants must be less than 30 inches long and weigh less than 24 pounds. All children must have a ticket with an infant fare for those using bassinets or sitting on laps.

Japan Airlines/JAL Air

JAL charges a fee for all infants under the age of two years flying on international flights. The airline offers a limited number of bassinets for infants under two years old and weighing less than 23 pounds.

Children must be at least eight days old to fly on JAL and do not require a ticket to sit on an adult’s lap. JAL does not charge for lap infants. 

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM offers carrycots on intercontinental flights. The airline states that they do not guarantee them until boarding but suggests contacting the KLM Customer Contact Centre to request one ahead of time. The weight limit for KLM’s carrycots is 22 pounds.

Expect to pay a reduced fare for lap infants and those that use the carrycots. You need to alert the airline that you will have a lap infant even if you don’t use the carrycot.

Korean Air

Korean Air offers bassinets if you request it at least 48 hours in advance through your travel agent or customer service. Infants must weigh less than 24 pounds to fit safely in the bassinet. Lap infants fly free on domestic flights but cost approximately 10% of the normal adult fare on international trips. 

The airline permits personal car seats if you purchase a seat for your child. All car seats must carry certifications and fit in the selected seats.

LATAM Airlines

LATAM Airlines offers free bassinets on select aircraft as long as you pay for a LATAM+ seat. You can request the bassinet up to four hours ahead of time and they accommodate infants up to 22 pounds. Lap infants fly free on domestic flights but cost 10% of the adult fare for international flights.

Lufthansa

Lufthansa offers a limited number of bassinets on long-haul flights. They accommodate infants weighing less than 24 pounds and you can request them up to 52 hours before your flight. Some seating sections require an additional fee to reserve the bassinet-compatible seats.

Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia Airlines offers a few bassinets on certain aircraft. While the bassinet service is free, you can expect to pay extra for the special seating to accommodate them. You must request the bassinet at least 24 hours before your flight.

International tips require you to pay 10% of the adult fare to hold your child on your lap. You can also purchase a seat for them and use an approved safety device.

MIAT Mongolian Airlines

Passengers can request a baby bassinet at check-in and must purchase a ticket for the child. The rate is deeply discounted for infants, even if you hold them in your lap. Expect to pay about 10% of the adult fare. Additionally, MIAT Mongolian Airlines does not suggest you fly with babies under 14 days old.

Porter Airlines

Porter Airlines does not offer bassinets for infants. Of note, the airline is infant-friendly but does charge fees on some U.S. flights. Babies must be at least seven days old or have medical clearance from a physician. 

Qantas Air

Qantas Air offers a bassinet seat in flights on A330, A380, and B787 aircraft. All international flights require infants to have tickets, meaning you pay a fee based on the destination. 

Infants can travel on an adult’s lap or in a bassinet for domestic and international flights. The bassinets hold infants up to 22 pounds and cost an additional fee. 

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is another kid-friendly airline with several perks for the youngest travelers, including bassinets for infants weighing up to 24 pounds. Note that the first-class cabin on the Airbus 380 cannot accommodate bassinets.

Ryanair

While you cannot book a bassinet on Ryanair flights, you can use a car seat or hold your infant in your lap. The airline also has seating restrictions for kids but makes several allowances for families, including additional carry-ons.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines offers some of the largest bassinets on airplanes with the capacity to hold infants up to 30 pounds. Some aircraft offer seats that can convert to beds with an inflatable flight cushion. You do have to pay an infant fare to secure the bassinet.

South African Airways

South African Airways provides a baby bassinet on planes if you book in advance and confirm the age, length, and weight don’t exceed the maximums. These bassinets can hold infants up to 22 pounds.

Southwest 

Southwest Airlines do not offer bassinets on flights.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit permits lap infants or children in car seats but does not offer bassinets. You must note that you will have a lap infant at the time of booking.

SriLankan Airlines

You can reserve a bassinet seat at booking but it is not guaranteed because the flight crew reserves the right to withdraw the reservation if necessary. SriLankan Airlines notes that the crew can refuse a bassinet if it would violate safety regulations. 

Sunwing 

Sunwing does not offer bassinets on airplanes.

SWISS/Swiss International Air Lines 

SWISS offers baby bassinets on all long-haul flights plus Business Class seats for European flights. They can accommodate infants up to eight months who weigh no more than 22 pounds.

TAP Portugal Air

You can book free TAP carrycots on most long-haul flights, except in the Executive Class section of some aircraft. These bassinets accommodate infants up to 24 pounds and the number available on each plane varies.

Thai Airways

Parents can book a bassinet on airplanes with an additional seat fee. Thai Airways offers bassinets for infants up to six months old and weighing less than 20 pounds.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines does not offer a bassinet for infants in flight but allows parents to sit with kids on their laps. Of note, the airline charges a reduced fare for all infants.

United Airlines

Parents and guardians traveling internationally with infants can get a complimentary bassinet on most aircraft. The United bassinets accommodate infants up to 22 pounds and have some seating restrictions. Note that availability is limited and it helps to book early. 

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic allows infants to travel in car seats if you purchase a seat for them or to ride in your lap. Car seats must meet certain safety requirements.

Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia does not offer bassinets but gives parents and guardians plenty of options for keeping their infants comfortable during flights. Airplane beds for toddlers are allowed in flights, like the Fly tot inflatable airplane bed.

Westjet

Infants under two can fly for free as long as you hold them in your lap for the flight. WestJet does offer bassinets on their Dreamliner in the economy cabin.

Baby Bassinet for Airplane FAQs

Do you still have questions about bassinets on airplanes? These questions and answers should clarify things and get you on the right track.

Final Takeaways on Airplane Bassinets

Bassinets help give parents a break on longer flights. Unfortunately, most airlines that have them only offer a few on each aircraft. 

Remember, every airline has different procedures for securing a bassinet, and some don’t allow you to request one in advance. It helps to call the airline directly or go through an experienced travel agent. 

Even if you think you have a bassinet secured, you might want to prepare a contingency plan just in case. After all, kids can grow almost overnight or you could encounter other safety issues that make a bassinet impossible.

Of course, if you want to avoid the stress and uncertainty altogether, you can always purchase a seat for your infant and use their car seat. It’s comfortable and familiar in a new situation.

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