When traveling with a baby or toddler, one important aspect to consider is the stroller policy of the airline you are flying with, especially if you’re flying with American Airlines and other major airline carriers. So, what is the American Airlines (AA) stroller policy and how it may impact your travel plans with your little one?
In this article, we will explore the AA stroller policy and answer any questions you may have about traveling with a stroller on their flights.
What Is The AA Stroller Policy?
Yes, let’s make it clear and easy to understand:
American Airlines’ Stroller Policy: Here’s what you need to know:
- Each ticketed customer can check one AA’s stroller and one car seat for free.
- Strollers weighing over 20 lbs (about 9 kgs) should be checked at the ticket counter.
- AA suggests that strollers lighter than 20 lbs (about 9 kgs) should be checked at the gate before you board.
- You can also bring an approved child restraint device and a diaper bag for free during your flight.
- However, items like playpens, wagons, and pack-and-plays are considered as regular bags. They count toward your carry-on or checked baggage allowance.
If any of these items exceed the carry-on limits, you’ll need to check them at the ticket counter, and standard fees will apply.
This way, you know exactly what to expect when you’re traveling with American Airlines.
How Strict Is American Airlines’ Stroller Policy?
American Airlines has a strict stroller policy in place, and it’s all about making sure passengers stay safe and comfortable.If your stroller weighs more than 20 lbs (that’s about 9 kg), you’ll need to check it at the ticket counter. This rule is in place to prevent any inconveniences or accidents in the cabin, and it’s all in the name of making sure your travel experience is smooth and secure.
With this policy in action, American Airlines is focused on ensuring that every passenger enjoys a pleasant and safe journey without any unnecessary obstacles or safety concerns.
What Is Gate Checking A Stroller?
Gate checking a stroller refers to the process of handing over your stroller to airline staff at the gate just before boarding the plane. Gate checking allows parents or caregivers to keep their stroller with them until they reach the gate, providing convenience and ease of travel.
Once the stroller is gate-checked, it will be stored in the cargo hold of the plane and returned to the owner at the arrival gate, usually just outside the aircraft door.
How Do You Gate Check A Stroller At The Airport?
If you want to gate-check your stroller, here’s what you can do: Just head over to the flight attendant at your departure gate’s counter and ask them. The process might have some differences depending on the airline, but usually, the gate agent will give you a claim tag to put on your stroller.
This tag is like a little ticket that makes sure your stroller gets back to you at the gate when you reach your destination.
Does It Cost Money To Gate Check A Stroller?
No, when traveling with a child, airlines generally allow passengers to check a stroller and car seat free of charge. This means that you can bring the stroller with you through the airport and then hand it over to the airline staff at the gate right before boarding the plane.
Can You Gate-Check A Collapsible Wagon On Alaska Airlines?
Yes, you can indeed gate-check a collapsible wagon when you’re flying with Alaska Airlines. In fact, many airlines typically permit passengers to gate-check stroller wagons that are specifically designed for carrying children and can be folded down to fit within 90 linear inches and weigh less than 35 pounds.
However, it’s a good practice to always double-check the exact guidelines with the airline you’re flying with, just to be sure you’re following their specific requirements.
Can You Gate-Check A Collapsible Wagon Allegiant?
Yes, you can gate-check a collapsible wagon when flying with Allegiant. This means you can bring your collapsible wagon right to the aircraft door, and the airline will stow it safely in the cargo hold for the duration of the flight.
However, it’s worth keeping in mind that gate-checking depends on availability and the specific policies of the airline. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to reach out to Allegiant directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Can You Gate Check A Collapsible Wagon On American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines is all for making your family travels easier. They allow each child to have one car seat and one stroller or folding wagon checked at the gate or ticket counter without any extra charges. This means you can bring your collapsible wagon along and have it checked for free.
Note: If your wagon happens to exceed the carry-on limits set by American Airlines, it will still be checked, but regular fees will apply.
To dodge this, it’s a smart move to check the weight and size of your wagon before you make your way to the airport.
Just remember, American Airlines has rules about the maximum size, and they don’t allow items larger than 45 linear inches (which is roughly 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), and that includes the handles and wheels.
Here’s a table with different types of strollers and their dimensions that you can check on American Airlines.
| Stroller Type | Dimensions (L x W x H inches) | Dimensions (L x W x H cm) |
| Umbrella Stroller | 36 x 19 x 13 | 91 x 48 x 33 |
| Jogging Stroller | 44 x 24 x 46 | 112 x 61 x 117 |
| Standard Stroller | 40 x 24 x 40 | 102 x 61 x 102 |
| Double Stroller | Varies by model | Varies by model |
| Travel System | Varies by model | Varies by model |
| Lightweight Stroller | 33 x 17 x 10 | 84 x 43 x 25 |
| Car Seat Carrier | Varies by model | Varies by model |
How To Add A Lap Child On American Airlines?
If you want to add a lap child to your American Airlines booking, there are a couple of ways to do it.
First, you can take care of it during the booking process itself. Just make sure to mention that you’re traveling with a lap child, and provide their name and birthdate when prompted.
But, if you’ve already booked your flight and need to add a lap child afterward, no worries! You can get in touch with American Airlines customer service, and they’ll assist you in adding the lap child to your reservation.
Note: Lap children are little ones under the age of 2, and they’ll sit on the lap of an adult during the flight.
Now, here’s a detailed overview of the different ways you can add a lap child on American Airlines:
Book A New Trip
Yes, When you’re planning your trip with American Airlines, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the American Airlines website: Head to their website to begin the booking process for your upcoming trip.
- Enter Passenger Details: As you enter passenger details during the booking process, keep an eye out for specific options. When prompted, choose the ‘add infant in lap’ option from the menu provided.
- Follow the Instructions: American Airlines will guide you through the process. Just follow the instructions given, and continue with the rest of your booking as you normally would.
Update An Existing Trip
If you’ve already booked your flight and now want to add an infant, here’s how you can do it:
- Log in to Your Account: Start by logging in to your American Airlines account.
- Manage Your Reservations: Once you’re logged in, go to the ‘Manage Reservations’ section.
- Select Your Trip: Find the specific trip you’d like to update, and click on it.
- Add Infant in Lap: Scroll down until you spot the ‘add infant in the lap’ option. Click on it.
- Follow the Prompts: American Airlines will guide you through the process. Just follow any additional instructions provided to complete the update.
Call Reservations
If you find yourself in specific situations, like traveling with an infant under 7 days old or journeying outside of the U.S., you might need to get in touch with American Airlines Reservations directly.
Here’s what you can do:
- Give Them a Call: Simply reach out to the American Airlines Reservations number.
- Explain Your Situation: When you get connected to a representative, just explain your unique situation.
- They’ll Assist You: The friendly folks at American Airlines will guide you through the necessary steps and make sure everything is in order.
In certain cases, there may be some taxes and a percentage of the adult fare applicable for international trips, and they’ll help you with that as well.
What Is The American Airlines Traveling With Infant Policy?
Yes, let’s make it clear and simple:
Traveling with Infants on American Airlines:
American Airlines has a family-friendly policy for infants:
- Age Under 2: Infants under the age of 2 can travel for free on their parent’s lap, as long as they are traveling in the same cabin as an accompanying adult over the age of 16. Remember, include the infant in your reservation, and one infant is allowed per ticketed accompanying adult.
- Infants Under 7 Days Old: If your infant is less than 7 days old, there are some extra requirements. You’ll need to complete a ‘Passenger Medical’ form before the flight. You can get this form from the airline’s website or at the airport.
- Multiple Infants: If you’re traveling with more than one infant under the age of 2, they will need their own ticket, and they must either be seated in an infant safety seat or have their own separate seat on the aircraft.
American Airlines cares about the safety and comfort of your little ones, so they’ve got you covered, whether you have a newborn or multiple infants.
What Documents Do You Need To Fly With Kids In AA?
When it comes to traveling with children under the age of 18, there are a few important points to consider:
- Proof of Age: In some cases, you might need to show proof of your child’s age, like a birth certificate.
- International Travel: If your child is going outside of the United States, they’ll typically need the same kind of documentation as adults. This often means having a passport or other necessary travel documents depending on the destination.
- Traveling without Both Parents: If a child under 18 is journeying internationally without both parents, they might be asked to provide a Letter of Consent. This letter proves that the child has the permission of both parents or legal guardians to travel.
Here’s a table listing the documents required to fly with children on American Airlines:
| Child’s Age | Document(s) Required |
| Infants (0-2 years) | Proof of age (birth certificate) |
| Boarding pass (if sitting on a lap) | |
| Passport (for international travel) | |
| Children (2-18 years) | Boarding pass |
| Passport (for international travel) | |
| Any required visas | |
| Parent/guardian contact information | |
| Unaccompanied Minors | Proof of age (birth certificate) |
| Valid photo ID of both parents/guardians | |
| Contact information for sending and | |
| receiving parties | |
| Unaccompanied minor service fee receipt |
What Is The Size/Weight Limit For American Airlines‘ Bassinets/Carrycots?
American Airlines offers bassinets in the Economy, Economy Extra, and Premium Economy cabins, specifically on their 777-200, 777-300, and 787 flights.
The bassinets they provide are about 19 inches in length and 8 inches in width. So, it’s important to ensure that your infant comfortably fits within these measurements.
If you want to know more about the size and weight limits for American Airlines’ bassinets or carrycots, keep reading.
Size Limit:
The length of the mattress is also 19 inches, so it’s important to take this into consideration when deciding on a suitable bassinet.
Weight Limit:
American Airlines’ bassinets can only be used by infants who weigh 20 pounds (9 kg) or less. It is important to note that this weight limit applies to both the infant and any items that may accompany them in the bassinet.
If your baby exceeds these measurements, you will need to book an additional seat for them and use a safety seat instead.
American Airlines Infant Policy For International Flights
American Airlines allows infants to travel on international flights. Infants under the age of 2 can travel on the lap of an adult passenger for no additional charge. If the passenger prefers, they can purchase a separate seat for the infant at the child fare rate.
Age Limit:
American Airlines allows infants under the age of two to fly domestically or internationally with a ticketed adult, provided that the infant is accompanied by an adult over the age of 18.
Infant Fares:
American Airlines does not require infants to purchase a ticket; however, they do need to be included in the reservation and will be charged a fee that is 10% of the applicable adult fare.
Lap Infant vs. Seat:
American Airlines welcomes children under the age of two and offers options for their comfort and safety:
- Domestic Flights: On domestic flights, infants can travel for free when sitting on their parent’s lap.
- International Flights: For international journeys, infants must have their own ticket and occupy their own seat.
Important Note: For safety reasons, American Airlines doesn’t permit lap infants on flights that last more than two hours.
Documentation:
All infants must have a valid government-issued photo ID or birth certificate in order to travel with an adult. This document will need to be shown at the ticket counter when checking in for your flight.
Feeding:
American Airlines allows passengers to bring formula, breast milk, and baby food on board the aircraft.
These items must be stored in a spill-proof container and will need to go through additional security screening at the airport.
Car Seats:
American Airlines allows passengers to bring their own car seat, booster seat, or other child restraint device that is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The car seat must have its own ticket and will be counted as an additional adult bag when checking in for your flight.
Bassinets:
American Airlines offers bassinets on certain international flights so that infants can sleep more comfortably.
The bassinet is subject to availability and must be requested at the time of booking.
FAQs
Does American Airlines Have Priority Boarding For Infants?
The answer is no, American Airlines does not have priority boarding specifically for infants. However, they do offer special assistance to customers who need it, including families with children under 2 years old. Customers can ask to board early at the gate.
Does American Airlines Charge For Infants On Lap?
The answer is no. American Airlines does not charge for infants who are flying on a lap. As per their policy, infants under the age of 2 are eligible for complimentary air travel on domestic flights within the United States.
However, it is important to note that while infants may not have to pay for a seat. Additionally, they are not guaranteed their own seat and will have to sit on the lap of a parent or guardian for the duration of the flight.
Do Infants Fly Free Internationally?
No, infants do not fly free internationally. Typically, if you are flying with an infant on a revenue ticket, you are required to pay the taxes and fees for the lap infant. In some cases, you may also be required to pay 10% of the fare.
Does American Airlines Require An ID for Minors?
The answer is yes. According to their policy, any children under the age of 18 must present proof of age, such as a birth certificate when traveling. This is done to ensure the safety and security of the child, as well as to comply with government regulations.
How To Book An American Flight With A Baby Under 2?
First, you need to determine if your baby will be sitting on your lap or if you want to purchase a separate seat for them. If they will be sitting on your lap, you will need to inform the airline when booking your ticket.
Next, you should check the airline’s policies regarding flying with infants, such as any age restrictions or required documentation.
Do You Need To Reserve A Seat For Your Infant?
You need to reserve a seat for an infant when the infant is traveling alone. The FAA requires that infants either travel in a safety seat that is approved by them or be able to sit upright in their seats without any assistance.
Note: It is important for the infant to have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing, and whenever the ‘fasten seatbelt’ sign is on.
Can You Sit In The Exit Row With Your Infant?
According to Federal Aviation Administration regulations, it is not allowed for a passenger to sit with an infant in the exit row. Additionally, all passengers in the exit row must be at least 15 years old, and no lap children or infant seats are permitted in this row.
Furthermore, infant seats are also prohibited in the row directly in front of or behind an exit. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of emergency evacuations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding American Airlines’ stroller policy and infant guidelines is essential for a seamless travel experience with your little one.
From stroller allowances to infant fares, knowing the specifics ensures you’re well-prepared. Stay informed about lap infant options, bassinet availability, and necessary documentation.