What Is The AA Stroller Policy? Everything About American Airlines Infant Policy

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? 

The first thing to know about AA’s stroller policy is that each ticketed customer is allowed one stroller and one car seat to be checked free of charge. Any strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter instead. 

Most of the double strollers and joggers are above these limits.

AA recommends that all other strollers lighter than 20 lbs / 9 kgs be checked at the gate before boarding. 

Customers can also bring an approved child restraint device to use during the flight, as well as a diaper bag for free.

When it comes to other items, such as playpens, wagons, and pack-and-plays, these are considered regular bags and count towards the customer’s carry-on or checked baggage allowance. 

If any of these exceed the carry-on limits, they must be checked at the ticket counter and standard fees will apply.

How Strict Is American Airlines’ Stroller Policy?

American Airlines enforces a stringent stroller policy, ensuring passenger safety and comfort. Strollers above 20 lbs (9 kg) must be checked at the ticket counter, averting cabin inconvenience and potential accidents. This prioritizes a smooth and secure travel experience for all.

By enforcing this policy, American Airlines ensures that all passengers can enjoy a pleasant and safe travel experience without any unnecessary obstructions or hazards.

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?

You can approach the flight attendant working at the counter of your departure gate and request to gate check your stroller. The process may vary depending on the airline, but the gate agent will typically provide you with a claim tag to attach to your stroller. 

This tag helps ensure that your stroller is returned to you at the gate upon arrival at 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?

The answer is yes, you can gate-check a collapsible wagon on Alaska Airlines. Most airlines generally allow passengers to gate-check stroller wagons that are designed to carry children and are collapsible to under 90 linear inches and 35 pounds. It is important to check the specific guidelines with the specific airlines.

Can You Gate-Check A Collapsible Wagon Allegiant?

Yes, you can gate-check a collapsible wagon on Allegiant. Allegiant allows collapsible wagons to be checked at the gate, meaning you can bring it with you to the aircraft door and it will be taken and stored in the cargo hold during the flight. 

However, it’s important to note that gate-checking is subject to availability and the airline’s policies, so it’s recommended to check with Allegiant directly.

Can You Gate Check A Collapsible Wagon On American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines allows one car seat and one stroller or folding wagon per child to be checked at the gate or ticket counter for free. This means that you can bring your collapsible wagon with you and have it checked without any additional charges. 

Note📝: If your wagon exceeds the carry-on limits set by American Airlines, it will be checked and incur regular fees. 

To avoid this, it’s important to check the maximum weight and size of your wagon before heading to the airport. 

American Airlines does not allow any items that are larger than 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 in) or 115 centimeters (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. 

Here’s a table with different types of strollers and their dimensions that you can check on American Airlines. 

How To Add A Lap Child On American Airlines?

To add a lap child on American Airlines, you can do so during the booking process or by contacting their customer service. During the booking process, you will need to indicate that you are traveling with a lap child and provide their name and birthdate. 

If you have already booked your flight, you can contact American Airlines customer service to add a lap child to your reservation. 

Note📝: Note that lap children must be under the age of 2 and 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

• Start by visiting the American Airlines website, and begin the booking process for your trip.
• During the booking process, you’ll be asked for passenger details. Make sure to select the option ‘add infant in lap’ from the menu of options when prompted.
• Follow the instructions provided and complete the rest of the booking process as usual.

Update An Existing Trip

• If you have already booked your flight and need to add an infant, you can easily do this from the ‘Passengers’ section.
• Log in to your American Airlines account and navigate to the ‘Manage Reservations’ section.
• Find the specific trip you want to update and scroll down until you find the option to ‘add infant in the lap’.
• Click on this option and follow any additional instructions provided to complete the process.

Call Reservations

• In certain situations, such as when traveling with an infant who is under 7 days old or if you are traveling outside of the U.S., you may need to contact Reservations directly.
• Call the American Airlines Reservations number and explain your situation to the representative.
• They will guide you through the process and may apply any necessary taxes and a percentage of the adult fare for international trips.

What Is The American Airlines Traveling With Infant Policy?

According to American Airlines’ policy, infants under 2 years of age can travel for free in the lap of their parents. Additionally, an accompanying adult over the age of 16, as long as they are traveling in the same cabin. 

Note📝: Include the infant in the reservation and note that only one infant is allowed per ticketed accompanying adult. 

However, there are some additional requirements for infants less than 7 days old. 

In such cases, a ‘Passenger Medical’ form needs to be completed before the flight, which can be obtained from the airline’s website or at the airport.

Additionally, if there are extra infants under the age of 2, they must have a ticket and either be seated in an infant safety seat or have their own separate seat on the aircraft.

What Documents Do You Need To Fly With Kids In AA?

Firstly, for any children under the age of 18, you may have to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate. Additionally, if the child is traveling outside the United States, they are required to have the same documentation as an adult. 

This means they may need a passport or other appropriate travel documents depending on the destination. 

Furthermore, if a child under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent. 

This is to demonstrate 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:

What Is The Size/Weight Limit For American Airlines‘ Bassinets/Carrycots?

Bassinets are available in the Economy, Economy Extra, and Premium Economy cabins on American Airlines’ 777-200, 777-300, and 787 flights. The bassinets provided by American Airlines are 19 inches long and 8 inches wide, so you will need to make sure that your infant fits into these measurements. 

Read on to learn all you need to know about the size and weight limit for American Airlines’ bassinets/carrycots.

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 allows children under the age of two to travel in their parent’s lap or in a seat, with a few exceptions. On domestic flights, infants can fly for free as an adult’s lap child. 

However, on international flights, they must be ticketed and occupy their own seat. For safety reasons, American Airlines does not allow lap infants on flights that are more than two hours long.

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.