From the Guidelines
It is recommended to wait for at least 1 week after birth before allowing infants to fly to ensure the infant is healthy. This recommendation is based on the British Thoracic Society guidelines for managing passengers with respiratory disease planning air travel 1. When flying with an infant, it is essential to consider their health and safety.
Pre-Flight Preparation
To prepare for air travel with an infant, consider the following:
- Book a direct flight during the infant's usual nap time if possible
- Bring essential items like diapers, wipes, formula/breast milk, extra clothes, and favorite toys
- Feed the infant during takeoff and landing to help equalize ear pressure
- Consider using a baby carrier for easier movement through the airport
- Pack medications like infant acetaminophen in case of discomfort
- Dress the infant in layers for temperature changes
- Arrive early to allow extra time for security and boarding
- Request a bassinet seat if available on long flights
Health Considerations
If the infant has had any neonatal respiratory problems, the proposed journey should be discussed with a pediatrician and a hypoxic challenge test considered 1. For oxygen-dependent children, including ex-premature infants with chronic lung disease, oxygen requirements should be titrated in a body box as follows: the infant, receiving oxygen via nasal cannulae, is placed in the body box in the company of a parent or carer, and SpO2 monitored 1.
General Guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics urges all pediatricians to know and promote child passenger safety recommendations as part of child passenger safety anticipatory guidance at every health supervision visit 1. However, these guidelines are more relevant to motor vehicle travel than air travel.
In the context of air travel, the most relevant guideline is to prioritize the infant's health and safety, and to consult with a pediatrician if there are any concerns about the infant's health or well-being. The health and safety of the infant should always be the top priority when considering air travel.
From the Research
Air Travel with an Infant
There are no specific guidelines for air travel with an infant provided in the available studies.
Relevant Information
- The studies provided focus on various aspects of infant health, including sleep machines 2, heart failure treatment 3, salt intake 4, feeding and swallowing disorders 5, and breast-feeding 6.
- None of these studies address air travel with an infant specifically.
- As a result, there is no relevant information available from these studies to provide guidelines for air travel with an infant.