Things to note when letting young children fly that parents should know

During family trips, taking young children on a plane makes many parents worry about procedures, regulations, and necessary notes for their children to have the best flying experience. Below are instructions for traveling by plane for children that adults need to know. Let's find out now with HoaBinh Airlines.

At what age can children fly?

Airlines do not regulate children's age to fly. Infants can participate in the flight if they meet health requirements. However, if not necessary, newborn babies should not be taken on airplanes. If possible, wait until your baby is 3 months old.

The reason is because flying can increase the risk of infectious diseases for newborns because of hidden germs. Especially if your baby is born prematurely and has heart or lung problems, he or she may also have problems with changes in oxygen levels in the airplane cabin. If there is a measles epidemic at the time of flight, children need to be vaccinated with MMR before the trip, when they are 6 months old. Therefore, before letting young children fly, parents should talk to a pediatrician to get advice.

Procedures for flying for children

Children participating in the flight include children under 2 years old and over 12 years old. Based on that, regulations for children when flying will be different.

For children under 2 years old

Children under 2 years old when flying do not need to buy separate tickets because they will sit on an adult's lap. In special cases such as children being raised in glass cages, health issues, premature babies, etc., you need to report your full name, date of birth, and complete procedures with the company in advance. Sometimes the company may refuse to carry the vehicle to ensure safety. Parents are also encouraged, if possible, to buy separate plane tickets for their children. They will be supported with car seats and seat belts for children.

Note for young children traveling by plane about their documents

Children under 1 month old: Parents need to bring the original birth certificate or notarized copy. If your baby does not have a birth certificate, you can use the birth certificate.
If the accompanying adult is not the child's parent, a written authorization confirmation from the parent or a document proving the personal relationship between the child and parent is required.

For children 12 years and older

Airfare for children under 12 years old will be charged as an adult. For international flights, ticket prices depend on the flight itinerary and the regulations of each airline.

For children from 12 to 14 years old

Children can fly alone when they bring a plane ticket, birth certificate, and commitment from a legal representative. However, when checking in, the legal representative will need to check in with the child.

For children over 14 years old

No accompanying person is required. At this age, children can fly alone if they have a plane ticket and an ID card or citizen identification card.

Things you should bring with you when flying with children

For infants, accompanying adults always need to carefully prepare personal belongings to avoid unwanted situations. Including clothes, diapers, milk, socks, towels, blankets... And milk should be pre-mixed to avoid bringing too many items when flying.

If you are more careful, you can bring more medicine—nasal spray—for children. If your child often cries, parents should not forget to prepare a favorite toy or a pacifier for the child to help the child be more obedient on the journey. A little cotton wool or small earplugs will also help your child's ears feel comfortable and help them sleep better.

Bring your own hand sanitizer to play safely with your children, ensuring their health.

Notes on flying for young children

Pay attention to the flight time if you decide to take young children on the plane with you so that they can be most comfortable. A flight at lunchtime or at night will help your child sleep throughout the flight.
When booking tickets, you need to provide all your child's personal information, such as their full name and date of birth. When checking in, the staff will only check again and proceed with the procedures, not informing you until you get to the airport.
Each flight cannot have more than 16 children. Therefore, it is necessary to inform them early when booking tickets so that the airline can arrange flights so that they do not exceed 16 children per flight. If the number exceeds the limit, you will be asked by the airline to change to another flight.
Children always need to be accompanied by an adult. Each person 18 years of age or older can only accompany one child. If there are two children traveling with one adult, one child must buy a separate ticket. You need to book tickets and pay additional service fees three days before the flight.
Children traveling by plane need to be full-term and in good health. If your child is sick, he or she needs to be accompanied by a doctor. Along with that, the family needs to make a commitment when allowing the child to take the flight.
The best seat for children on a flight. You should choose a seat near the window, not an aisle seat, to ensure children's safety from collisions with passersby and food carts. and even overhead luggage.
You can feed your baby a bottle or a pacifier during takeoff and landing, so your baby will experience less ear discomfort.
Always prepare a backup plan. Have you tried to imagine that your flight might depart later than expected? Don't forget to bring extra food for both adults and children. Toys and tablets with videos available can help children have fun and not cry during this time.
Don't forget that you can always ask for help from our staff. Because traveling with a child and luggage can be difficult for you. Ask for help when needed.

Special services are needed for young children traveling by plane

When deciding to let children fly, parents can refer to some special services that airlines often provide.

Stroller service: Most airlines accept strollers for free, without needing to be included in checked or carry-on luggage. If there are special requests for this service, parents need to contact the company 1–3 days in advance.

Vietnam Airlines stipulates that children under 2 years old and weighing less than 11kg can request this service. However, this does not include babies born under 7 days, premature babies, or those raised in glass cages.

Sleeping seats: Sleeping seats are provided on some international flights. You need to pay a fee to use the form of placing three chairs in a row to create a bench large enough for parents and babies.
Special meals: Special nutritional meals are also focused on by airlines to meet meal requirements for children on flights. Dishes are made from ingredients rich in protein and vitamins, such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, and fresh fruits such as oranges and apples.

Children under 1 year old usually have pureed meals. If you want to order meals for children, you can contact us 24 hours before departure time.

Above are a few notes that parents need to remember when letting young children fly. Hopefully, understanding this information will help your children have a smooth and happy flight. For advice and to book airline tickets at good prices, please contact HoaBinh Airlines through the hotline at 0939.311.911 - 0913.311.911 for 24/7 advice and support.