Flying With A Lap Infant: What You Need To Know When Choosing Alaska Airlines

Are you planning a family vacation and wondering how Alaska Airlines handles infants? If you're traveling with a lap infant, it's essential to know the airline's policies and fees associated with bringing your little bundle of joy along. Alaska Airlines is a popular choice among families, and understanding how to navigate their lap infant policies can help you minimize travel stress and stay within your budget. In this article, we'll break down the airline's rules and regulations for flying with a lap infant, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Alaska Airlines Lap Infant Policy

According to Alaska Airlines, infants who will be seated on an adult's lap can fly free of charge, but there are some conditions to be aware of. Here's a summary of the airline's lap infant policy:

• Infants must be six weeks or younger to fly free on an adult's lap.
• Infants must be able to sit on an adult's lap and must be held securely at all times.
• Infants are not considered passengers and do not receive a boarding pass or baggage allowance.

Reservations and Booking

It's crucial to book your flight well in advance to ensure a seat with an empty seat next to the adult, as this will provide more comfort and space for your infant. You can book your flight as early as 11 months in advance on Alaska Airlines' website or mobile app. Be sure to inform Alaska Airlines about your lap infant when you book your flight.

When booking, you'll be asked to input the date of birth for your infant and receive a confirmation number for your reservation. However, you won't receive a separate boarding pass for your infant, as they do not require a valid board pass.

Infant Equipment and Care

When flying with a lap infant, it's essential to pack essential items such as a stroller, car seat, and other baby equipment. Standard baby items, including bottles, formula, and diapers, are allowed in carry-on bags and checked luggage, but be mindful of liquid restrictions and security regulations.

Some parents prefer to bring a car seat to ensure their infant's safe transportation during takeoff and landing. Alaska Airlines allows approved car seats in the cabin for use during the entire flight. However, the car seat must be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and must be approved for use in a fixed-position, forward-facing position with a separate lap belt.

Charges for Lap Infants

While lap infants are free to fly, Alaska Airlines does charge a fee for a second adult when traveling alone. Additionally, in some cases, Alaska Airlines may charge an infant fare for traveling on a one-way ticket or traveling on a separate ticket in addition to an adult ticket.

According to the Alaska Airlines website, the following fees may apply:

1. A second adult traveling alone, including a lap infant and a paying adult: $100 to $150
2. One-way ticket for a lap infant: $25 to $50, depending on the route

Upgrades and Extra Services

When traveling with a lap infant, parents may wonder about upgradable seats or special services like in-flight meals or reserved boarding. The good news is that Alaska Airlines offers some additional services for families with infants:

Speedpad Boarding allows you to board the aircraft as part of the first 60 passengers and enjoy expedited security and check-in for your family. This perk can be purchased starting at $99.

Additionally, Alaska Airlines offers in-flight meal and seating upgrades, which can be customized for your family's needs. In-flight meal pre-orders are recommended for infants under the age of two, and you can choose from a variety of meals offered on your flight.

Travel Barriers and Exemptions

Occasionally, situations may arise that require special accommodations or request an exception to Alaska Airlines' policies. For instance, a doctor's note may be required for your infant to fly if they have certain medical conditions that require a high level of care.

In some rare cases, Alaska Airlines may be able to accommodate family requests for the following:

1. Extra legroom seating for a lap infant, especially if the adult also requires more space.
2. Placing the infant on the lap on an empty seat for added comfort.
3. Priority access for food service or in-flight meals for your lap infant.