Traveling by plane with young children can sometimes be a challenge for parents. Understanding this, airports and airlines have provided many special support services to help families have a smooth and comfortable trip. This article will provide detailed information about these services.
1. General Support Services at the Airport:
Children's play area:
Location: Usually located in the waiting area for boarding the plane or near restaurants and cafes.
Amenities: Slides, ball houses, bouncy animals, paintings, story books, etc. depending on each airport.
Note: Children should be supervised when playing in this area.
Baby care room (Mother and baby room):
Location: Usually located near the toilet or in areas with few people passing by to ensure privacy.
Amenities: Diaper changing table, sink, nursing chair, microwave (milk warmer), hot water, etc.
Note: You should bring diapers, wet wipes and other necessary personal items for your baby.
Baby stroller:
Pick-up/drop-off location: Usually located at the check-in area or near the airport entrance.
Procedure: You need to present your ID to borrow a stroller.
Note: The number of strollers may be limited, especially during peak hours. You should arrive early to borrow a stroller.
Priority lane:
Location: There are clear signs at check-in, security check and customs areas.
Priority subjects: Families with young children, disabled people, and the elderly.
Note: You should prepare your family's ID to get priority.
Family restroom:
Conveniences: More spacious, with low sinks for children, changing tables, etc.
Note: Not all airports have family restrooms.
2. Support Services from Airlines:
Special meals for children: Airlines often provide special meals for children with menus designed to suit the tastes and nutritional needs of children.
Baby bassinet: For long flights, some airlines provide baby bassinet service (requires advance booking).
Toys and books: Some airlines provide toys, books or other entertainment for children on the plane.
Flight attendant service: Flight attendants will assist families with young children throughout the flight.
Unaccompanied minor service: For children of a certain age (usually 2-14 years old) traveling by plane without an accompanying adult. The airline will send staff to take care of the child throughout the journey.
3. Unaccompanied Minors Service
Age: Usually from 2 to under 14 years old (depending on the regulations of each airline).
Conditions: The service must be registered a certain amount of time in advance (usually 24-72 hours before the flight). There must be someone to take the child to the departure airport and someone to pick the child up at the arrival airport.
Procedures: Parents or guardians must fill out the service registration form and sign a commitment of responsibility.
Cost: This service usually has a fee, depending on the airline and flight route.
Important note: It is necessary to carefully study the regulations of each airline regarding this service because each airline may have different requirements regarding age, procedures, documents and costs.
4. Tips for Families with Young Children When Flying:
Prepare snacks and toys for children: Help children entertain and avoid hunger during the flight.
Arrive at the airport early: To have enough time to check in and avoid stress.
Choose the right seat: Choose a seat near the aisle or near the toilet for convenience.
Bring necessary medicine: Especially fever reducer, anti-motion sickness medicine, etc.
Keep your child comfortable: Dress your child in comfortable clothes and bring a blanket and pillow if needed.
With dedicated support services from airports and airlines, traveling by plane with children will become easier and more comfortable. Hopefully this article has provided useful information for parents.