Traveling with infants and toddlers can be a daunting experience, especially when navigating airline policies and booking procedures. However, Delta Airlines offers a comprehensive Delta seat policy with children to ensure that parents and young passengers can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and stress-free flight. From lap infants to the use of car seats and bassinets, understanding Delta airlines infant policy will help parents make the best decisions for their little ones.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about booking seats for infants and toddlers on Delta Airlines, from eligibility for infant discounts to the best seat options for young children.
1. Eligibility for Infant and Toddler Travel on Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines has specific guidelines when it comes to traveling with infants and toddlers. Understanding these rules will help you prepare for your flight and avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Infants (Under 2 Years Old): Delta allows infants under 2 years old to fly as lap infants, meaning they do not require their own seat. The airline typically does not charge for lap infants, although parents are required to inform the airline of their lap infant at the time of booking. For international flights, there may be a nominal fee for lap infants. Delta seat policy with children dictates that infants are seated on the parent’s lap for the duration of the flight, with safety precautions in place.
- Toddlers (2 Years and Older): Once a child turns 2, they are required to have their own seat. A full-price ticket is necessary, though parents can often access Delta Airlines discount for seniors or family deals to make the trip more affordable. This age requirement is for safety reasons, as children need their own seat and seatbelt for the journey.
2. Booking a Seat for Your Infant or Toddler
When booking a flight with Delta for your child, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth process:
- Booking a Lap Infant Seat: To book a lap infant seat, you’ll need to select the option during the flight booking process. While booking online, Delta will ask if you are traveling with a child under the age of 2. Select this option, and a seat will be reserved for your infant to travel in your lap. This is a free service for domestic flights, though additional fees may apply for international flights.
- Booking a Seat for Toddlers: Once your child turns 2, you’ll need to reserve a seat for them. You can do this when booking your flight, either online or by calling Delta’s customer service. If you are traveling with multiple children, it’s important to ensure that the airline seats your family together. While Delta seat policy with children is family-friendly, confirming that your child’s seat assignment is next to yours will avoid any confusion at the airport.
- Booking Special Services: If your toddler or infant has any special needs, such as requiring a car seat or additional assistance, make sure to call Delta’s customer service well in advance to arrange for these services. Delta offers special accommodations such as wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and bulkhead seating for families with infants and toddlers.
3. Using Car Seats on Delta Airlines
Many parents wonder if they can bring their own car seat on board for their infant or toddler, especially for added safety and comfort. The answer is yes — Delta Airlines Infant Policy permits the use of FAA-approved car seats for children aged 2 and under. However, there are some rules and regulations to follow:
- FAA-Approved Car Seats: The car seat you bring must be FAA-approved. This typically means that the car seat will have a label stating it is certified for use on an aircraft. Only car seats that are designed for use on an airplane are permitted. If you are unsure whether your car seat meets the FAA guidelines, check the label or consult the manufacturer.
- Seat Assignment for Car Seats: When using a car seat on a Delta flight, it must be installed in an appropriate seat. The car seat can be placed in a window or middle seat, but it cannot be placed in an exit row. Additionally, car seats must not obstruct any aisles, and they must be properly secured with the airplane seatbelt.
- Comfort and Safety: Although using a car seat provides an added layer of security for your child, it also offers additional comfort, particularly on long-haul flights. It allows your child to sleep more soundly, and you don’t have to worry about them sitting on your lap for the entire journey. For parents with infants and toddlers, this is often a preferred option, especially for long flights.
4. Delta’s Infant and Toddler Travel Essentials
In addition to seat assignments, Delta Airlines offers a variety of services and amenities that make traveling with babies and young children easier:
- Bassinets for Infants: On long-haul international flights, Delta provides bassinets for infants who meet specific criteria. To request a bassinet, you’ll need to contact Delta before your flight to check availability, as these are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Infants must generally be under 20 pounds to qualify for a bassinet.
- Priority Boarding: Delta offers priority boarding for families traveling with infants or young children. This service allows you to board the plane early, giving you more time to get settled with your child and ensure all of your belongings are stowed properly.
- In-Flight Entertainment and Amenities: Delta provides a range of family-friendly services, including in-flight entertainment with a variety of children’s movies, TV shows, and games. They also offer snacks and meals for young children, depending on the length of the flight.
- Changing Tables and Baby Care Kits: Most of Delta’s aircraft are equipped with changing tables in the restrooms. Additionally, Delta provides baby care kits on request, which typically include diapers, wipes, and other essentials for parents traveling with young children.
5. What Parents Need to Know About Delta’s Infant and Toddler Policies
While Delta Airlines strives to make travel with infants and toddlers as smooth as possible, there are a few things parents should keep in mind:
- Booking Early: It’s always a good idea to book your flights as early as possible to ensure availability of seats for children and to select the best seats for your family. If you need a special seat, like a bassinet or a seat with extra space for a car seat, make your request well in advance.
- Travel Documentation for Children: Just like adults, infants and toddlers need appropriate travel documentation for international flights. Make sure you have all necessary paperwork, including a passport for your child if traveling internationally.
- Arriving Early at the Airport: Arriving early at the airport will give you enough time to handle any additional services like checking in, going through security, and requesting any last-minute accommodations.
Conclusion
Flying with an infant or toddler doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding Delta seat policy with children and utilizing Delta’s family-friendly services, you can ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable journey for both you and your child. From booking a lap infant seat to bringing your own car seat or requesting a bassinet, Delta Airlines is dedicated to making family travel as easy and comfortable as possible. By planning ahead and knowing your options, you can focus on enjoying the flight with your little one, creating positive travel memories from the start.