From what age can a baby fly on a plane?

Going on vacation with a baby raises many questions for new parents. And precisely: if you're planning a family trip, you're probably wondering from what age a baby can fly. Between airline regulations, medical recommendations, and precautions to take, it can be quite confusing.

This Europ Assistance guide is here to help, so that your first flight with baby goes as smoothly as possible!

>> Request your travel insurance for a worry-free trip <<

From what age can a baby fly?

Most airlines allow babies to travel from the age of 7 days. However, rules vary depending on the airline with which you plan to book your flights. SWISS, for example, is one of the airlines that allows newborns over 7 days old to fly. A medical certificate confirming the child’s fitness to travel will be required for infants under one week old.

Similarly, Air France advises against travel within the first 7 days after birth. Before booking your ticket, make sure the airline you choose does not restrict access based on your child’s age! For instance, Turkish Airlines does not allow children under 2 days old on its flights.

Risks associated with air travel with an infant

Cabin pressure variations

According to SwissDocu, during a flight, cabin pressure changes cause variations in the volume of gases in the ENT cavities. Since babies' sinuses are not fully developed, they have more difficulty balancing the pressure on either side of the eardrum, which can lead to ear pain.

In addition to this symptom, pressure changes can cause:

Irritability and crying
Temporary feeding difficulties
General discomfort during takeoff and landing

Medical contraindications before flying

According to VIDAL, it is not recommended to travel if your baby has a cold or an ENT infection (especially an ear infection), a fever or flu-like symptoms, or has recently undergone surgery. In case of illness, consult a pediatrician to ensure that air travel is still possible.

A healthcare professional will be able to guide you based on the flight duration, your infant’s ENT history, or your destination, so you can travel with peace of mind. For older children, vaccination recommendations may also be issued depending on the countries you plan to visit.

How to relieve discomfort in young children?

Several effective techniques can help your infant better cope with the flight.

Among them, for example:

Breastfeeding or giving a bottle during takeoff and landing
Using a pacifier to encourage swallowing and opening of the Eustachian tubes
Keeping the child awake during these slightly more difficult phases of the flight
Cleaning the nasal passages with a spray or drops before takeoff to clear the airways in case of a cold

Required documents for traveling with a baby

Identity documents needed before boarding

Every baby must have their own identity documents to travel. For travel within Europe, the accepted documents are:

A valid ID card
A valid passport

Outside of Europe, only a passport is required. However, some destinations may also require a visa: make sure to check before heading to the airport! Also, keep in mind that a baby’s face changes significantly in just a few months. It may therefore be wise to renew their identity documents before they expire, so your child remains recognizable!

Think about parental authorizations

According to SWISS, children under the age of 5 are not allowed to travel alone. Between the ages of 5 and 11, they may do so, but only if accompanied by someone at least 12 years old.

For trips with only one parent or a third party, it is strongly recommended to carry a written and signed travel authorization from the non-accompanying parent, even if it is not systematically required by Switzerland.

This precaution is especially important if the child has a different last name from the accompanying parent. In that case, be sure to bring your family record book to prove parentage.

Airfare and seating for babies on planes

Airlines apply specific pricing for children, mainly based on their age at the time of travel. This distinction determines not only the ticket price but also the required safety equipment.

If your child is under 2 years old, most airlines offer two options:

Travel on an adult’s lap, for about 10% of the adult fare. This is allowed for only one infant per adult. If you are traveling with multiple babies, each will need a seat;
Have an individual seat at the child fare (varies by airline);

For children aged 2 and over, an individual seat becomes mandatory. Fares then vary depending on the airline and destination.

Child age	Individual seat	Fare
Under 2 years old (lap)	No	-10% of adult fare
Under 2 years old (seat)	Yes	Vary depending on the airline
2 to 11	Yes	Vary depending on the airline

Equipment to consider when booking

The choice of safety equipment for your baby depends on several factors, including age, weight, and flight duration.

Here are the main solutions offered by airlines:

The additional lap belt, which is provided free of charge when the baby travels on the lap of the accompanying adult
FAA-approved car seats, which offer optimal protection for your child. SWISS specifies that the seat must be certified and that the base dimensions must not exceed 40 x 40 cm. Be sure to check if this applies to your airline
Bassinets or carrycots, which are an excellent compromise for infants. These are generally available free of charge, upon reservation

All our tips for traveling well with a baby

Traveling well insured with a baby or child

Before going on vacation with your family, make sure your travel insurance covers every member of your household. This protection naturally includes your baby, who must be included in the number of people to insure when subscribing with Europ Assistance.

Essential coverage includes:

Cancellation for medical reasons
Trip interruption if your baby or you fall ill during the trip
Medical expenses abroad up to CHF 250,000 for family insurance
Emergency repatriation for treatment in Switzerland, with no limit on the amount
Baggage coverage in case of loss, theft, or damage

Calculate your family travel insurance premium now

Frequently Asked Questions – Fly with your baby worry-free!

At what age can a baby fly?

Technically, an infant can fly from 7 days old, depending on the airline. If you need to travel before that, most airlines will require a medical certificate confirming the baby is fit to fly. Of course, for your baby’s comfort and safety, it’s best to wait a little longer before flying.

Can you bring water for a baby on a plane?

Yes, baby water is not subject to cabin liquid restrictions, just like powdered milk or baby food jars. You can bring the amount needed for the trip. Security agents may ask to taste the product for verification. However, for all other liquids and care products, they must be placed in 100 mL containers.

Can a 7-month-old baby fly?

A 7-month-old baby can absolutely fly. It’s even an ideal age, as their immune system is more developed than that of a newborn. They may also be eligible for a bassinet if their weight still allows (usually under 10–12 kg and 70–80 cm).

Are flights dangerous for babies?

Flights pose no particular danger for a healthy baby. The main challenges are related to pressure changes and dry cabin air, which can be easily managed with simple precautions.

Can you reserve a baby bed on a plane?

Some airlines offer free bassinets, generally reserved for babies under 10 months, weighing less than 12 kg and measuring less than 80 cm. These cribs attach to cabin walls and must be reserved in advance.

Which seat should you choose when flying with a baby or infant?

It’s recommended to choose a window seat for more privacy during breastfeeding, or a front-row seat to benefit from a bassinet and extra legroom. Note that if you’re flying with an airline like SWISS, you may be allowed to bring your own seat on board (as long as it’s certified and meets the airline’s size requirements).

Is a special harness required for babies during flights?

If the baby travels on your lap, the airline provides an additional lap belt. For added safety, you can also use an approved car seat on an individual seat.

What identity documents are needed for a baby to travel?

A baby must have their own identity documents: an ID card for travel within Europe or a passport for other destinations. Preferably, as it may be requested, we recommend also bringing your family record book in paper or digital format. Documents must be valid—and recent! This is especially important for babies, as their appearance changes quickly. Check which documents are required based on the countries you’re visiting and the length of your stay. In some cases, a visa may also be necessary.

Can I bring a stroller on the plane?

Yes, nearly all airlines allow one stroller per child to be transported free of charge. According to SWISS, you can bring a fully foldable stroller or travel stroller at no extra cost.
The usual process is as follows: in most airports, you can use your stroller up to the boarding gate, which is very convenient for carrying your baby and their belongings. At the gate, the crew takes care of the stroller and stores it.
Important condition: the stroller must be fully foldable. Check with your airline during baggage check-in to confirm the exact terms!

Tips and precautions for baby’s first flight

Your baby’s first flight requires careful preparation to ensure the comfort of the whole family. Here are the essential tips to follow before departure:

Schedule a pediatric consultation beforehand. Make sure your baby is fit to travel if they’re very young, sick, or recently operated on
Choose direct flights. If possible, it’s always easier to avoid stressful layovers
Bring familiar items. A comfort blanket, pacifier, and toys will help soothe your baby in an unfamiliar environment
Pack extra supplies. Bring more food and diapers than expected to avoid surprises
Arrive early at the airport. Flying with a baby means potential delays. Arriving early helps reduce stress and gives you time to care for your little one
Check your documents. Make sure all identity papers are up to date and valid well before the flight!

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