The Ultimate Guide to Baby Bassinet Seats and Airplane Bassinet Weight Limits
See, it turns out that traveling with a baby is like juggling on the unicycle: hard but not impossible. And, enter the hero of our article: the airline bassinet. When you have an infant next to you, these nap pods can turn a bumpy ride into some smooth sailing. As a parent who has traveled the friendly skies with a little one, do trust me, these bassets can prove to be saving graces.
Hold your horses and stop swooning over those flights before you go through the weight limit agreement. Airlines do indeed have strict weight limits for the bassinet, and it is important to find out whether your baby is eligible. You really don’t want your baby to outgrow the bassinet, and then you’re stuck being a human rocking chair for 2-3 hours… Yeah, I learned that lesson—the hard way.
This is your ultimate guide to everything you need to know about airline bassets… and those darn weight limits… We will talk about which airlines have them, how to book one, and also share some useful tricks for having the optimal bassinet opportunity! So let’s jump into it. You leave feeling ready to go for your next trip with baby—because travel should be fun, even with a baby.
What is the bassinet, and Where Does It Belong?
Definition and Purpose
So what exactly does a bassinet airplane mean? Picture a miniature crib clipped to the bulkhead (the wall in front of your seat). It mainly serves as a safe, comfortable spot for your baby to sleep at 30,000 feet in the air. Don’t believe me, just give it a try and imagine it as a cot somewhere in the heavens. This little gadget leaves your hands up to relax (oh, wow, a chance to really enjoy that in-flight movie or *gasp* have a nap yourself) and gives baby serious head-neck support. Let me tell you, attempting to juggle a baby and a meal tray on your lap is somewhat of a disaster recipe—in every sense of the word!
Typical Locations
So, where do these bassinets of wonder land? They are usually in the bulkhead seats —those first-class spots with more space than folks next to them can even eye with envy. Your baby gets a nice snug spot and you get little room to spread your own legs out. That is a bit like winning the in-flight lottery! However, the location can differ depending on the airline and aircraft so it is a good idea to check with your airline next time you fly. Do not wait until 35,000ft to learn that your premium seat is in the middle of the plane and no bassinet in sight.
Are airline bassinets safe?
Just like during take-off and landing, safety is momma’s number one concern… same applies for airline bassinets. These little beds are also held to safety standards and regulations. Airlines have specific bassinet size requirements for your baby that airlines need to meet in order to comfortable and safe.. at 35,000ft. Now, you may be asking yourself how these compare to car seats. Car seats are great for car travel, but the friendly skies have inspired a different take on bassinets They allow your baby to sleep and rest in a flat position, helping with all-day comfort. Just to keep in mind, most airlines do have the general restrictions of these bassinets being for infants who are under six month of age and must be less than 20-30lbs. Unfortunately you need to confer with your airline supplier for accurate info, but this should give you a good idea of whether you qualify! Policies are subject to your individual airline as well. Be it bassinets that can be a bit more generous or other places that are a bit stingy. As always, please double-check before you book — you don’t want to be caught off guard when boarding with a baby!
Car Seat vs. Bassinet
It’s more like a backpack versus suitcase for your baby on a flight – both will get you from point A to point B, just with different levels of maximum comfort and accessibility. Maybe this handy-dandy table can make it a little easier to see the pros and cons for each option.
| Feature | Car Seat | Bassinet |
|---|---|---|
|
Safety |
Pros: Safe, familiar to my baby. Cons: May be big and heavy. |
Pros: Compliant with airline safety standards. Cons: subject to weight and age constraints |
|
Comfort |
Pros: The baby is used to it; it allows for sleeping more upright Cons: Restricts movement. |
Pros: Less crowded for sleeping Cons: Maybe your baby is not used to the things on the walker. |
|
Portability |
Pros: suitable for car or use with other mart. Cons: Must lug around the airport. |
PROS: Given by the airline, not on hold CONS: advantages/airline supplied/don’t carry around |
|
Age/Weight Limits |
Pros: Suitable for a range of ages and weights. Cons: None. |
Pros: Perfect for young infants. Cons: Typically for babies under 6 months and within a certain weight limit. |
|
Availability |
Pros: Bring it with you; you’ll have a day of play at all hours. Cons: None. |
Pros: Would be easy if you could find it. Cons: No guarantee on all flights. |
So there you have it! With either the solid car seat or snug bassinet, there are advantages to both. So, just chat with the best one about your travel plan and make your minor comfortable. Good luck and safe travels, the friendly baby bottom way!
Age and Weight Limits
Airplane bassets are not standardized, so options might vary across different airlines. Bassinets are tiny! Ideally, they function until a baby is newborn to 1 year old (or the child outgrows it, considering those sizes vary by model).
While we found age ranges of 0 to one year and weight limits from 15 to 25 lbs on airline websites, it is going to completely depend upon the child—mainly your kid’s height and length while lying inside. Okay, so for the nitty-gritty—which airlines do in fact have these like “miracle” bassinets? An overview table (for all my fellow table-loving beings out there) that includes more than 50 airlines and a bassinet. Quick Reference Table for Bassinets, British Airways to WestJet Is bassinet service available between the point of departure and the final destination? With some airlines, infants are in luck, and with others not so much (yes, you, budget airlines). I mean, c’mon, at least you’ll know before even booking. And, as always, be sure to confirm with your airline before you fly because you know the policies can change as fast as a toddler!
Airlines That Offer Bassinets Which
Most airlines around the world offer bassinets in flight to make flying with babies easier. A guide to bassinets with the major airlines
| Airline | Bassinet Offered | Reservations Accepted | How To Book | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Airline Bassinet Policies
Some airlines have policies in place for accommodating bassinets on board. Below are the most flown airlines in the world: Click and view the official statement from their website.
Aer Lingus
On transatlantic flights, Aer Lingus provides bassinets (although not on the airline’s Boeing 757 aircraft). Bassinets are to be booked in advance and may not always be available.
The airline also tells you not to book a separate seat for the infant at a child rate, but the bassinet won’t be provided if you have an infant seat.
Aeroflot
Infants Highlights Aeroflot accepts bassinets Babies younger than one year and who weigh no more than 24lbs (11 kg) may use the bassinets. The number of bassinets on each flight varies by aircraft.
In the event that your baby is to be accommodated in a bassinet on Aeroflot, flight personnel will weigh your child, provide instructions on the use of the bassinet during flight, and inform you about the location of changing tables in aircraft lavatories.
To secure a spot in the bassinet on Aeroflot, you should ask for it not later than 36 hours before departure when contacting either by calling the sales office or with priority access to these seats.
Aero México
Aero Mexico only has a certain amount of cribs per flight, offered upon check-in (subject to availability).
Note that cribs are only available for infants weighing up to 24 pounds (11 kg), and the accompanying adult must be seated in an AM Plus seat when requesting this service (additional charges may apply).
Air Canada
Air Canada has bassines available on 763, 77L, 77W, 789, and A333 aircraft.
Bassinets can be used only for infants weighing less than 25 pounds (11 kg) who cannot sit up unassisted (starting at approximately 3 months). The built-ins are found in bulkhead rows, which wouldn’t have lift-up armrests anyway.
Bassinets may be requested in advance; however, these are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and subject to availability at the time of flight departure.
Pro Tip: Before consulting your airline to know the regulations for traveling with Bassinet, ask them what type of plane you will fly on.
Air France
On long-haul flights, Air France cabins are available cabins with levels of service for the economy, premium economy, and business class passengers. Requests must be completed at least 48 hours prior to travel and as soon as possible after your booking to guarantee seat availability.
Bassinets are created for babies weighing 22 lbs. and measuring less than 27 inches.
When purchasing a seat for an infant—0–2 years old (infant who has not reached their second birthday) in an adaptable car carrier for whom no individual passenger seat has been acquired), the infant MUST travel on an approved car baby or child restraint.
Air India
The information on the Air India website is pretty vague when it comes to flying with children, though you can ask for bassinets free of charge.
Seat Guru writes: Get a bassinet by calling Air India reservations before your flight.
Air Mauritius
Infant beds are also available on all Air Mauritius international flights. There is a limited number of cots; however, the same can be pre-booked and will also be re-confirmed at the time of check-in.
The baby cots can accommodate infants up to 12 months of age, up to 24 pounds (11 kg), and up to 29 inches (74 cm) in height.
Air Mauritius special seat belt extension for carrying your infant safely on lap at takeoff and landing (the baby cots have to be stowed at these times).
Air New Zealand
Many Air New Zealand flights have bassinets that attach to the front wall of the economy cabin. Reservations are encouraged, and space is limited.
You may be able to reserve your bassinet online in advance via Seat Select—simply select a location with a bassinet icon. Please be aware that there is a charge for these seats, with a possible additional charge.
Air Seychelles
Bassinets are available on Air Seychelles for infants under 6 months old and under 25 lbs (11 kg).
Note: Bassinets are available on request at the time of reservation and are subject to availability.
Air Transat
Air Transat has bassinets, which are available in the bulkhead and only for infants less than 24 pounds (11 kg) who cannot sit upright. Availability is limited.
The bassinets are 27 inches long x 12 wide x six inches high (68 cm L x 30 cm W x 15 cm H).
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Infant Policy Alaska Air does not provide bassinets to its customers and the number of lap children per flight is limited based on aircraft.
Lap infants do not have a seat reserved and are based on availability, and if the flight has seats available, it allows the infant to occupy that seat at no additional charge.
American Airlines
Even though they might not be the most strategically placed (see: TV, napping baby), having a bassinet in the back of steerage is a major win.
American Airlines Economy & Premium Economy Bassinets American Airlines offers bassinets on the 777-200/-300 and 787 fleet in its economy, Econ Extra, and premium economy cabins for infants under two years (and the weight limit is less than 20 pounds or ≈9 kg). Bassinets are available on a first-come, first-serve, and not reservation basis.
ANA (All Nippon Airways)
In economy and business class on international flights, ANA provides bassinets for infants who are not occupying a seat. In the first class, absolutely no bassets.
Bassinets: 33 × 18 × 13 inches (85 × 45 × 33 cm) each; max weight is about 22 pounds (10 kg). Passengers who have requested a bassinet will also be provided with a special baby blanket.
Bassinets may be reserved by telephone in limited numbers. To secure a bassinet: Asiana Airlines: Bassines may be reserved in advance. However, because only a few are served, it is necessary to secure one as soon as possible. Restrictions on size will vary depending on the cabin and aircraft
Business class: A380, A350, B777: 71 cm or under in height + under 10 kg in weight B747, A330, B767, A321: 76 cm or under in height + under 14 kg in weight Economy class: A350: 71 cm or under in height + under 14 kg in weight
All other jets: 76 cm or under in height + 14 kg or less in weight Avianca Airlines: Bassines are available on flights served by the A330 and B787. Infants who are eight months old or less and weigh less than 11 kg are allowed to use them, and they must be length 74 cm or less. The bassinet is 75 x 34 x 22 cm in size.
British Airways bassinets are available on all long-haul flights for infants up to their second birthday. However, there is no such service on short-haul flights.
Book the Right Seat: Choose an appropriate seat during the booking process to arrange a bassinet. The seats are marked with a baby symbol on the seating diagrams. Although there is no charge, the availability on board the flight is not equal. When you arrive at the gate, the users of the baby seat and the carrycot positions are the first.
Cathay Pacific
Infants on a lap must be held by you throughout the flight, but there are 18 bassinets onboard each Cathay Pacific long-haul aircraft for babies under 12 months. When making a reservation, you can opt for a baby bassinet.
The bassinet provided by Cathay Pacific is for infants up to 6 months old and weighs a maximum of 26.5 lbs/12 kg.
It is 30 x 15 x 8 inches (76 x 38 x 20 cm) and measures only three pounds.
China Airlines
China Airlines has bassinets available for pre-booking on a limited number of seats on all flights, except for ERJ flights.
Passengers should secure a bassinet when buying an infant ticket moving forward, as there is a finite availability of bassinets and bulkhead seats are via first-come, first-served fashion.
Eligibility criteria are different with bassinets; due to space limitations in the bassinet, the bassinet service is only offered to infants over 6 months but less than 24 months (2 years old) under 28 inches tall, and no more than 24 pounds.
China Southern Airlines
Infant Bassinet Service (BSCT) is available in economy and premium economy classes on flights operated by B777, B787, A330, A350, and A380 aircraft with a basic segment duration of more than 3 hours.
CRADLES: For infants under 1 year of age on the day that travel commences, weighing no more than 25 pounds (11 kg) and measuring less than 27.5 inches (70 cm).
Because there is only a small amount of bassinets provided for each plane, we suggest requesting bassinets through the website or calling +86-20-22395539/ visiting ticket agent.
Condor
The partial-fill bassinet is also for infants flying in business class on long-haul flights but are limited to only five.
Bassinets For infants up to 6 months; maximum weight of 17.5 pounds (8 kg)
Reserve a carrycot (not in bulkhead) by calling Special Reservations at +49(0)6171 6988978 Monday through Friday no later than 48 hours before departure.
Czech Airlines
On selective flights, Czech Airlines provides a baby cot onboard as well. A bassinet is available to you when flying economy class with an A330 or in business class on the A319 and A330.
The baby cot fits up to 11 kg (about 24 pounds) and measures 75 x 34 x22 cm.
The cot can be requested via the Contact Centre at the time of seat booking.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines provides onboard bassinets (coined SkyCots) at no extra charge for adults assigned in certain seats on certain long-haul international flights.
The bassinets are perfect for little ones weighing up to 20 pounds (9 kg) or up to 26 inches (66 cm) tall.
Sky Cots are available upon request if you contact Reservations before arriving at the airport and then talk to the gate agent at boarding time. Subject to availability, Delta limits the number of Sky Cots that can be booked to two per aircraft due to weight restrictions.
Easy Jet Airlines
Bassinets are presented by way of Easy Jet planes. Yet, as indicated on its site, it is friendly to the babies & little kids.
EL AL Airlines
El Al also offers a baby bassinet facility on most of its aircraft for infants up to the age of 9
months. The number of seats that may accommodate a bassinet either (2) with a special apparatus or by means of attaching the required type to one of the seat lap tables is not large and available upon availability depending on the aircraft model. Bassinets are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are traveling with an infant, reach out directly to Reservations for a bulkhead seat with a small bassinet.
The bassinet is top-hung after take-off so that the child lies next to you and receives Additionally, a blanket The crew is prepared to heat baby bottles as well (Source: EL AL Website). They will also rinse the bottle and offer hot water. Diapering tables can be found in the lavatories.
Emirates
If your child doesn’t have their own seat on a child’s fare, Emirates also provides bassines for children up to 2 years old.
Bassinets are limited, but a request can be made at the time of booking (PNR creation) or post-booking by using the Manage My Booking function online.
The bassinets measure about 29.5 x 13 x 8.8 inches (75 x 33 x 22 cm) and are intended to hold infants who weigh up to 24 pounds (11 kg).
Etihad Airways
Bassinets on Etihad are confirmed on a request basis and should be requested either during the booking process or through the Manage My Booking section of the site.
Bassinets can hold babies up to 24 pounds (11 kg) but are designed for newborns. The cabin crew will assess to see if it is safe and comfortable for an infant to sail in the bassinet, then they will attach it to your seat.
EVA Air
EVA Air Bassinets (for babies): For infants traveling on EVA Airways flights, all EVA Air aircraft are outfitted with bassinets for infants up to a maximum specific weight and height.
If you book a seat for your baby, EVA Air needs to be informed the date of birth, height and weight of the baby.
Frontier Airlines
At this time, bassinets are not available on the flights operated by Frontier.
Garuda Indonesia
Infants in Economy Class are eligible for a baby bassinet upon request, available on a complimentary, first-served basis (subject to availability.). Because of the restriction on bassinets, the airline requests that parents ask for them further in advance than other seats.
The design is not confirmed until check-in.
Bassinets: Infant bassinets onboard Garuda Indonesia have a maximum weight of 9 kg (20 lbs) for infants.
Gulf Air
Gulf Air provides bassinets on all flights except in its Falcon Gold cabin (on its B787) and economy cabin (A320).
It is very rare, but you can reserve a bassinet before departure and get confirmation.
The bassinets have been designed for infants up to 7 months, weighing no more than 22 pounds (10 kg) and measuring at or under 26 inches (66 cm).
Jet Blue Airways
One of the less anti-kid airlines in the U.S. (DialogInterface>JetBlue$msg) however cannot promise bassinets on any flights.
Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines bassinets: Pre-reserved bassinets are for use in bassinet-compatible Extra Comfort seats (row 14) on select A330 routes.
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If you want to reserve the seat in advance, just purchase an Extra Comfort seat that is bassinet-compatible on their website and then call to reserve the bassinet You can also book directly by calling Hawaiian Airlines Reservations.
If you choose not to buy an Extra Comfort seat, please check at the airport with a customer service agent at check-in on the day of departure for bassinet options. When the Extra Comfort upgrade is completed, you can only upgrade 1 adult. You have up to 2 requests per flight. Bassinets are assigned during the boarding process or are confirmed. The customer with the 1st earliest check-in time is served first Bassinets are not offered upon check-in and is not the sure thing.
Iberia
Iberia does provide cots according to the same regulations as everyone else if you are flying intercontinental so long as parents are able to be seated in a particular class and seat (but which is never specified on their page).
Finally, in order to book a cot, you will have to get in touch with your Iberian local office and provide them with the info on your flight and see if your seat can be installed with a cot. Only you will want to snag a seat at an extra charge, depending on the cabin class.
Iberia’s cots are for infants who weigh up to 24 pounds (11 kg)
Icelandair
Icelandair flights do not feature bassinets.
JAL (Japan Airlines)
Bassinets can be carried on JAL; limited quantity and advance reservations are not always possible.
They are for 0 to 2-year-old infants & support up to 23 pounds (10.5 kg.)
It measures 28 x 12 x twelve inches (LxWxH).
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
On intercontinental flights, KLM provides carrycots, but these are on request and therefore dependent on availability.
You can actually get one through its site in the My Trip section or by calling, funnily enough, the KLM Customer Care Center.
Cots are suitable for babies up to 65 cm tall or 10 kg in weight on the day of travel.
Korean Air
Children between the ages of six months and two years inclusive may also occupy a seat in a separate child restraint system on Japanese domestic flights as well when an empty seat is available for a fee payable during reservation, after which no further charges are placed, and on international flights up to 40 kg (88 lb) including the restraint device, infants occupying their own seats must be seated immediately adjacent to responsible adult passenger compensation dynamics mandated—all international arrival procedures apply without restrictions on other carriers.
Because of its limited numbers, be sure to ask for a bassinet by way of the Korean Air Reservation Center earlier than your flight leaves.
The bassinets are for babies to be less than 24 pounds (11 kg) and 29.5 inches (75 cm) in height.
LATAM Airlines
LATAM Airlines bassets are available on all 767, 777, and 787 operated routes
While you can try to prebook a bassinet, it depends on availability on each flight.
It is advised that the bassinet is suitable for babies weighing up to 22 pounds (10 kg) and no longer than 28 inches (71 cm).
Lufthansa
Lufthansa On all long-haul flights, bassinets can be booked up to 52 hours prior to departure. Seat reservations will apply for the seat with the bassinet, at an additional cost depending on your booking class.
The bassinets are for infants up to 24 pounds, and measuring a maximum of 26 inches long.
Malaysia Airlines
If you ask in the Call Center, there will also be a bassinet. Credit Malaysia Airlines
Free business is available on some Malaysia Airlines aircraft
The bassinet service should be requested at least 24 hours prior to takeoff in the same way as contacting its Global Customers Contact Centre.
MIAT Mongolian Airlines
MIAT bassinets — available on some flights, must be requested at airport check-in.
Your baby is not capable of weighing more than 24 pounds (11 kg) and should not be taller than 29.5 inches (75 cm) to use the bassinet.
Porter Airlines
While a lot of us were taking to the skies, at least recreationally in 2006, the announcement by Tripp’s mom (founder) that she’d be starting an airline was big news because one person still hadn’t ever flown: her son. The infant flights had changed his life and inspired a mission—with Porter’s facilities, it seemed as though he would have lots of services on board. It is not quite economical in terms of kids’ travel as it does not provide bassinets on its flights.
Primera Air
Incidentally, no bassinets are available on Primera Air flights.
Qantas Airways
While booking your travel, Qantas will allow business for those young ones.
QantasA bassinets are 71 x 31 x 26 cm (28 x 12 x 10 inches) and can be used for babies under six months old up to a maximum limit of around 11 kg or around 24 pounds.
Qatar Airways
Infants and babies up to 24 months of age—Bassinets -Bassinets Qatar Airways You may contact your nearest Qatar Airways office to request these. Bassinets are not available in the first-class cabin of an A380. Bassinet position
Seat availability: For a seat in a bassinet position on an aircraft compliant with CS-25 provisions, you may want to contact our Reservations.
Baby maximum weight: 24 lbs (11 kg)Age Maximum: 2 years of age Plus, this baby is still small enough to fit in that thing.
Singapore Airlines
When you book an infant ticket, Singapore Airlines provides business. On-board bassinets There are a limited number of bassinets available onboard and they are offered on a first come, first served basis.
They have therefore introduced the Thule Chariot Sport, a premium upgrade with adjustable suspension and feedback from 6 months of real-life testing with two different The twin bassinet attaches to any of the many available models.SLSAennsfamHow do you carry twins in a bike trailer? Twins who are healthy enough to ride along can be safely transported from birth. Each bassinet measures 30 x 12 x 6 inches (76 x 30 x 15 cm) and so should fit comfortably within their padded sling, even as they grow up to twice that size. The Max user weight for each is around an imperial but somewhat underwhelming-sounding ‘four-and-a-bit bags of sugar’ (133 pounds/60 kg).
South African Airways
South African Airways provides a bassinet service for their youngest travelers, provided the parent is seated in a bulkhead seat. Bookings on these can be done by phoning their nearest SAA office.
Baby bassinets are limited to the size and weight of an infant. A baby bassinet is subject to availability with room. — Maximum dimensions: 10 kg (22 lbs) and 75 cm (29.5 in).
Sunwing Airlines
Bassinets are not available on Sunwing flights.
ValueJet Airlines (Now known as AirTran Airways) SWISS ␣ -0944 1998–06/2000 TheNewSwissAirLINE
On SWISS, bassinets are provided no matter the class on long-haul flights and in business class for European flights.
The approval included the bassinets for up to 8 months and a weight limit of less than or equal to 24 pounds (11 kg).
Since the bassinet places are limited, contact to before time at the Service Center
TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal Bassinet: Some long-haul flights up to 12 months, business class of some medium-haul aircraft
The number of seats available for cots differs depending on the category of aircraft. This confirmation is instant, and you can book.
The bassinet measures 29 x 13 x 8.8 inches (75 x 34 x 22.4 cm) and holds a baby up to a maximum of 24 pounds (11 kg).
Thai Airways
Thai Airways offers bassinets you can request when booking or checking in, but again, not guaranteed.
The bassinet is for use by infants less than 6 months of age who weigh under 22 pounds (10 kg) and are shorter in length than 26 inches (67 cm).
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines also offers free bassinets for babies on long-haul flights.
Those extra legroom seats that so often require a surcharge come with a bassinet located in front. For bassinet requests, you should contact the international call center at +90 850 333 0 849 to book these spots.
United Airlines
Complimentary bassinets are available on international flights only and by advance request in United Polaris business class on a handful of 757, 767, and all 777/787 aircraft or Main Cabin where applicable. First- or business-class passengers are not provided with bassinets.
Question: What if customers call for the bassinet or request it at the airport?
One adult accompanying an infant may receive up to two (2) adjacent seat assignments.
United advises that although bassinets are available for infants on long-haul flights, services like bassinet reservations are limited and not guaranteed, so customers may want to request a bassinet with as much advance notice as possible before their flight.
Size Weight Capacity Bassinet 29 x 11 inches (74 x 28 cm) Up to 22 pounds (10 kg)
Virgin Australia Airlines
Here, cots and bassinets are available that were offered for bout aircraft types as well as cabins.
Virgin Australia provides business on all international long-haul flights and domestic flights operated by an A330 aircraft, subject to availability
Bassinets are limited; ask for an infant bassinet when you book. The bassinets are allocated on a strict first come, first serve basis.
The bassinets are designed for 1 infant occupancy only and contain weight and size restrictions as below:
777: 40 lbs / 18 kg—27.5 in/70 cm
A330: 24 pounds (11 kg) and 27.5 inches (70 cm)
West Jet Airlines
One final note: WestJet provides business on its 787 Dreamliner in the economy cabin. If you will be traveling with a lap-held infant, request a bassinet when booking your flight.
This is the only 787-9 with a Business Class, and you can see that it has seats 9B, 9D, and 9F.
How many of those economy sweet spots are shockingly amazing?
Check Availability on Seats 9J and row 25E, which are the last seats in Rainbow Aisle Valid AntiForgery Token. A bassinet cannot be guaranteed so you may have to go and see a WestJet counter at the airport.
Infant only, 25 pounds (11 kg) max, 26 inches (66 cm) or less tall, and not able to sit up on his own.
Guide to Airline Bassinets
And when it comes to flying with a baby, an airline bassinet is a total game changer. It’s all about comfort for the baby. Think of your little one sleeping perfectly in a crib while you have a few seconds to breathe and not worry. Think of them as mini-bed mattresses that go along the wall of your airplane, providing a cozy environment for the baby to nap instead of fighting over in your lap! Parents can be hands-free and relaxed as well. Let me tell you, that might seem like a silly thing to be so happy about, but basically, what this means is now I could eat with two hands or even more incredibly watch an entire movie all in one stretch without any disturbance. It is like finding a unicorn in the air travel world. And you might be able to avoid the painful arm cramps from hour-long holding sessions. Therefore, if you have an upcoming flight with your infant, be sure to inquire about the airline’s bassinet availability. Your sanity will thank you!
Here are some pointers for flying with a bassinet
An inflight bassinet is a holy grail when it comes to flying for parents, but it can also be a bit of a puzzle. The very first thing is to Try and Get the bassinet; these are like the golden tickets of air travel. Be prepared to screw in some things when you get on the plane (think assembling IKEA furniture but in the sky!) Bring a stroller or preferably a carrier, and make sure you have brought his/her favorite little blanket or soft toy.
Pro Tip: Stay away from turbulence! (Well, I would have power that way if only.) Pay attention to the seatbelt sign — you will be required to remove your baby during turbulence. Above all, relax and have fun on the plane ride; it’s just a small human in a metal tube — don’t worry too much!
How to Reserve a Bassinet
Okay, people, this booking of a bassinet seat is not rocket science—but it does take a touch of strategy.
Step #1: Book Your Flight Early Bassinet seats are the unicorns of flying—magical and mythical. Ring the airline & tell them you want a bassinet. This does not mean they will automatically understand you are looking for a specific role. They are literally listening in on other calls so spice up their day by being friendly when they answer the call; charm is a love language 🙂 I mean, how could you turn down a pun like “baby’s first jet-set adventure”?
Finally, make your request foolproof by reconfirming a week in advance; after all, you don’t want to be sitting at 35,000 feet when you learn of a slip-up. So pick up that phone, show them your biggest smile (yes, they can feel it! ), and grab that baby throne!
Tips for Using a Bassinet
Wipe the bassinet: The use of a towel or wipes on the bassinet is also essential. You never know what tiny surprises might be left over from past trips. I like to think of it as setting up my baby’s mini hotel room!
Bring Your Own Blankets: There’s nothing cozy like your own blankets. They have that distinctive smell and touch that reminds us of a house.
Stick to having enough time for sleep. This will help your baby feel secure because of following their bedtime and sticking to their routines. Literally always a taste of home, wherever we are.
Pacifier/Bottle: These are my secret weapons. They instantly soothe my baby and help make new routines in new places feel like second nature.
You can place a cover or tent over the bassinet; this will block extra light and distractions, making it perfect for mimicking that cozy, warm environment of the womb. And it gives a bit of privacy for those impromptu naps on the run.
Play music or white noise to drown out any sounds you might not recognize. Some of the lullabies help my baby sleep, and honestly, it puts me back to bed also.
You See, Few Airlines Would Ask for Charge for the Bassinet
Bassinets on flights Did you know that some airlines even charge for those costs? I was shocked too! I mean, they are already charging us extra for 3 inches of legroom and chips?! I learned that fee policies vary quite dramatically when I looked into this. Some airlines offer them for free, such as Emirates. Thank godi haaaahh… But other airlines, such as Lufthansa (OTCBB: DLAKY), may charge a nominal fee of $20 or $30. When booking your flight, is better to contact the airline directly. Now I feel like I scored VIP seats at a concert for getting my baby a bassinet. That said, always ensure to read up on these policies prior to your flight and you SHOULD be good — it really shouldn’t come as a surprise mid-air!
Where the Bassinet is on the Plane
So, let’s talk about bassinet setup on planes.
If you are anything like me, this is probably a question you have asked yourself: Where do they even store those? The thing is bassinets are always in the bulkhead row—i.e., those with loads of legroom. Lucky us, right? The one catch is that if you pay with startup miles, you’ll usually have to book business class/first class weeks in advance. The easy way was not so—well, easy to show up in the pre-dawn hours at ABC and stake a claim for ourselves. That was long before I learned that those spots are valuable real estate to parents traveling with 10-month-old infants like mine. Therefore, if you want your baby to be able to take a good nap, it is best to try getting one of those bulkhead seats as soon as possible. Kind of like getting a seat in the first row for a concert but without the mosh pit. Remember to ask the airline where their bassinets are and about their rules on them as well.
Plane Bassinet Covers
Let us start with the universe of aircraft bassinet covers Do all airlines allow them?
Spoiler alert: they don’t. I learned my lesson when I attempted to take a comfy blanket of my own on the plane, with plans that it would mean the difference between sleep or no sleep for her. Other airlines, like Emirates and British Airways, appear to be chill about it and provide plane seat covers. However, there are some airlines, like American Airlines, who will refuse to allow you this and only use their own. That would be as if you were hiding your own popcorn in a cinema! So, my advice? Always look it up ahead of time with the airline. How many times have you struck up a conversation with a flight attendant about that great new swaddle when your baby is nudging it off her shoulders?
Flying with a baby is practically an Olympic event, but don’t fret—I have additional tips and resources to assist you! So, let us begin. To begin with, constantly take more baby diapers than you assume.
Let me tell you, a mid-flight blowout is no joke. You and your kiddo are probably going to spit up or spill something, so pack an extra set of clothes for both of you. Pack lots and LOTS of snacks. You won’t survive on those tiny bags of pretzels. You could also load up your phone with some baby-friendly apps or programs. This might be the only thing to save you some of that precious peace and quiet because, as I get it, few things are working that can drive a least previously relaxed baby to an annoying wall-climbing-unholy mess. Websites like Flying With A Baby have some great free printable lists. Visit SailingBritican.com for in-depth instructions and product suggestions. A little planning and humor and you will be a pro-skysailor!
FAQ:
What are the Weight Recommendations for a Baby Bassinet?
Most airline bassinets have a weight limit that falls between 20–25 lbs (9–11 kg). However, this can change depending on the specific carrier, so you should always make sure to confirm details with your particular airline.
United Airlines Bassinet Weight Limit?
United Airlines Baby Bassinets Weight limit: Generally 25 pounds (11 kg).
At what age are airplane bassinets?
Bassinets for children under the age of 2 are permitted on most airways. But bear in mind that different airlines might have different policies, so please check with your airline!!
Delta bassinet maximum weight?
Bassinets on Delta: Typically allow infants up to 20 lbs ( (9kg) in a bassinet.
