What Are The Rules For United Airlines Traveling With Infant?

Traveling with an infant can seem daunting, but United Airlines has policies and amenities to help make the journey smoother. Are you looking for stress-free travel options in Vietnam? SIXT.VN offers reliable services, including airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tours, ensuring a seamless travel experience, especially beneficial when traveling with young children. With this article, you will understand United Airlines’ infant travel policies.

1. Do I Need To Reserve A Seat For My Infant On United Airlines?

No, you don’t need to reserve a seat for infants under 2 years old (24 months) on United Airlines. However, United Airlines requires you to notify them that you will be traveling with an infant on your lap. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), only one lap child is allowed per adult to ensure safety during flights.

If you are traveling with more than one infant under 2 years old, you will need to purchase a seat for each additional infant. Alternatively, you can choose to buy a seat for your infant and use an approved child restraint device. According to a 2023 study by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), using child restraint devices significantly enhances infant safety during air travel. To travel with an infant on their lap, a passenger must be at least 18 years old.

2. Will I Pay For My Infant To Travel Domestically With United Airlines?

No, you will not pay for your infant to travel domestically on United Airlines if the child is under 2 years old (24 months) and will be on the lap of another passenger. This policy makes domestic travel more affordable for families with young children. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, most major airlines offer similar policies to encourage family travel.

3. Will I Pay For My Infant To Travel Internationally With United Airlines?

Yes, you typically will pay for your infant to travel internationally with United Airlines. Even if the infant is under 2 years old (24 months) and will be on the lap of another passenger, you are usually charged 10% of the adult fare plus taxes. An exception is for infants traveling between the U.S. and Canada, who only pay taxes.

This fee covers the necessary documentation and handling required for international travel. A 2022 report by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) indicates that such fees are standard practice among international airlines to account for administrative costs.

4. What Happens If My Child Turns 2 During The Trip; Will I Need A Ticket For The Return Flight?

Yes, you will need to purchase a ticket for any flight on which the infant will be over 2 years old. If your child turns 2 during the trip, they are no longer eligible to travel as a lap infant on the return flight. Airlines require a purchased seat for children over 2 for safety and regulatory compliance.

Airlines adjust pricing based on age to comply with safety regulations. According to the FAA, children over two years old must occupy their own seat to ensure proper safety measures.

5. What Types Of Child Restraint Devices Are Allowed On United Airlines?

You can use an approved infant car seat on board United Airlines when you purchase a seat for your child. The car seat must be an FAA-approved child safety seat device. Here are some infant car seat placement restrictions:

• On one-aisle aircraft, car seats must be placed in window seats.
• On two-aisle aircraft, car seats must be placed in window seats or the middle seat of a center section.
• Car seats are not permitted in rear-facing seats on any aircraft.

If manufactured after February 1985, the car seat should also be certified for use in aircraft. You should seat your child in the child safety seat for takeoff, landing, and during turbulence.

The FAA has approved using a child safety restraint system for travel called CARES (child aviation restraint system). The system uses an additional belt and shoulder harness that goes around the back of the seat and attaches to the lap belt. Children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds may use this device. You can visit www.kidsflysafe.com for more information.

6. What Infant Amenities Are Available On United Airlines Flights?

Infant amenities vary by aircraft. When you’re on the airplane page, look for the Infant Amenity Icon. If it is present, clicking on it will tell you what infant services are available on that airplane. If you do not see it, infant amenities are not offered on that aircraft. A limited number of bassinets can be reserved for use, free of charge, on international aircraft (Boeing 747, 757-200, 767, and 777). These bassinets are large enough to hold a child up to approximately six months old. They may not be used for takeoff, landing, or when the seat belt sign is illuminated.

To request a bassinet for your flight, please contact United Reservations at 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331) within the United States or call the appropriate worldwide contact. Bassinet reservations are subject to availability. It is recommended that you make your request early, as bassinets may no longer be available for your flight once you arrive at the airport.

7. What Is United Airlines’ Policy Regarding Strollers?

Strollers may be checked to your final destination without a fee, in addition to your normal baggage allowance. This policy is beneficial for families traveling with infants, as it allows them to bring essential baby gear without extra charges. According to United Airlines’ baggage policies, strollers are considered essential mobility aids and are handled with care to minimize any inconvenience to passengers.

Children can be transported in their strollers throughout the airport. However, strollers must be checked at the gate. No strollers of any size are permitted as carry-on baggage. Your child’s stroller will be delivered to you at the aircraft door upon request at your connecting city or destination. Large-sized, non-collapsible strollers cannot be checked at the gate. Please see a United representative at the airport check-in counter to check your large-sized, non-collapsible stroller.

United is not responsible for damage that occurs to strollers that are not packaged in a box and checked at the check-in counter.

8. Which Aircraft Have Baby Changers In The Lavatories?

Changing tables are available on certain types of aircraft.

9. Can I Sit In The Exit Row With My Infant On United Airlines?

No, if you are traveling with an infant or any child under 15 years old, you cannot sit in a designated exit row, in keeping with U.S. Federal Aviation Administration regulations. This rule ensures that passengers in exit rows can assist in an emergency. Only one infant per each grouping of seats on the aircraft is acceptable due to the availability of oxygen masks.

10. How Can SIXT.VN Help Make Traveling With An Infant Easier In Vietnam?

SIXT.VN can greatly simplify traveling with an infant in Vietnam by offering a range of convenient and reliable services. Understanding the challenges of traveling with young children, SIXT.VN provides solutions to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

10.1. Airport Transfer Services

SIXT.VN offers reliable and safe airport transfer services, ensuring you and your infant are transported comfortably from the airport to your accommodation.

• Meet and Greet: A driver will meet you at the arrival hall, assist with your luggage, and guide you to the vehicle, eliminating the stress of navigating a new airport with an infant.
• Child Seats: You can request a child seat when booking your transfer, ensuring your infant’s safety and comfort during the ride.
• Private Transportation: Enjoy a private vehicle, allowing you to travel at your own pace without worrying about shared transportation schedules.

According to a 2023 survey by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, travelers who use pre-booked airport transfer services report a 30% reduction in travel-related stress.

10.2. Hotel Booking Assistance

SIXT.VN helps you find and book family-friendly hotels that cater to the needs of travelers with infants.

• Crib Availability: SIXT.VN can confirm the availability of cribs or cots in your hotel room, ensuring your infant has a comfortable place to sleep.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Hotels with amenities such as baby pools, play areas, and babysitting services can be recommended and booked through SIXT.VN.
• Convenient Locations: SIXT.VN can suggest hotels close to major attractions, minimizing travel time and making it easier to manage your infant’s needs.

10.3. Tailored Tour Packages

SIXT.VN offers customized tour packages that consider the needs of families traveling with infants.

• Flexible Itineraries: Tours can be tailored to include shorter durations and more breaks, ensuring your infant remains comfortable throughout the day.
• Private Tours: Opt for a private tour to have the flexibility to adjust the schedule as needed and avoid the constraints of group tours.
• Infant-Friendly Activities: SIXT.VN can recommend and arrange activities suitable for infants, such as visiting parks, gentle boat rides, or cultural shows with age-appropriate content.

According to a 2022 study by TripAdvisor, families who opt for private or customized tours report a 40% increase in satisfaction compared to those who join standard group tours.

10.4. Local Support and Assistance

SIXT.VN provides ongoing support and assistance during your trip, helping you address any unexpected issues that may arise while traveling with an infant.

• Multilingual Support: Access to multilingual support ensures you can communicate your needs effectively, regardless of language barriers.
• Emergency Assistance: SIXT.VN offers 24/7 emergency support to assist with any urgent situations, such as medical assistance or lost items.
• Local Tips and Recommendations: Get valuable local tips on where to find baby supplies, pharmacies, and infant-friendly restaurants.

10.5. Transportation Options for Exploring Hanoi

SIXT.VN offers various transportation options to help you explore Hanoi with your infant comfortably and safely.

• Private Car Rental: Rent a private car with a driver, allowing you to travel at your own pace and visit attractions without worrying about public transportation.
• Car Seats: Ensure your infant’s safety by requesting a car seat when booking your private car service.
• Flexible Schedules: Enjoy the flexibility to adjust your itinerary and schedule as needed, accommodating your infant’s feeding and nap times.

10.6. Comprehensive Travel Planning

SIXT.VN assists with all aspects of your travel planning, ensuring no detail is overlooked when traveling with an infant.

• Visa Assistance: Get help with visa applications and ensure you have all the necessary documents for your trip.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
• Detailed Itineraries: Receive a detailed itinerary with all bookings and confirmations, making it easy to keep track of your travel arrangements.

By leveraging SIXT.VN’s services, families can significantly reduce the stress associated with traveling with infants, ensuring a more enjoyable and memorable experience in Vietnam.

FAQ About United Airlines Traveling With Infant

1. At what age does my child need their own plane ticket on United Airlines?

Your child needs their own plane ticket on United Airlines once they turn two years old. Up until their second birthday, they can travel as a lap infant.

2. Can I bring breast milk or formula on a United Airlines flight?

Yes, breast milk and formula are exempt from the standard liquid restrictions. You can bring a reasonable quantity for your child’s needs.

3. Does United Airlines provide bassinets on international flights?

Yes, United Airlines provides a limited number of bassinets on some international flights, particularly on Boeing 747, 757-200, 767, and 777 aircraft. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

4. How early should I request a bassinet for my United Airlines flight?

It’s recommended to request a bassinet as early as possible, as they are subject to availability and can run out. Contact United Reservations well in advance of your flight.

5. Are diaper changing facilities available on United Airlines flights?

Changing tables are available in the lavatories on certain United Airlines aircraft. It’s best to check with the crew if you’re unsure.

6. What is the maximum weight for a child to use the CARES restraint system on United Airlines?

The CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) is approved for children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds.

7. Can I use any car seat on a United Airlines flight?

No, the car seat must be FAA-approved and certified for use in aircraft. It should also be manufactured after February 1985.

8. What if my FAA-approved car seat doesn’t fit in the United Airlines seat?

If your FAA-approved car seat does not fit, the airline will try to accommodate it in another seat. If that’s not possible, the car seat must be checked.

9. Can I pre-board a United Airlines flight when traveling with an infant?

Yes, families traveling with infants or small children are typically allowed to pre-board United Airlines flights.

10. What documents do I need to travel internationally with my infant on United Airlines?

You will need your infant’s passport and, if required, a visa. If only one parent is traveling, you may need a notarized letter from the other parent granting permission to travel.

Conclusion

Navigating United Airlines’ policies for traveling with an infant can be straightforward with the right information. Planning and understanding these guidelines can ensure a smoother travel experience for you and your little one. And when you arrive in Vietnam, let SIXT.VN take care of all your travel needs, from airport transfers to customized tours, making your family trip truly unforgettable.

Are you ready to explore Vietnam with your family? Contact SIXT.VN today to plan your perfect trip! Visit SIXT.VN or call +84 986 244 358 for personalized assistance. Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam.