Flying with children can be both a lively adventure and a logistical challenge. As families navigate the maze of airline policies and fees, the question of whether parents should have free seats for their kids on flights has sparked debate. Even President Joe Biden tweeted in advocacy of fee-free family seating.
You ought to be able to fly with your child – and sit next to them – without paying an additional fee.
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 5, 2024
It's time all airlines offered fee free family seating.
Why Free Kids Seats Matter
Flying with children is often a necessity rather than a luxury for a lot of families. From visiting relatives to taking family vacations, flying not only opens doors to experiences for children but also allows families to avoid childcare costs. However, kid seating can be a financial burden in itself. Purchasing additional seats for kids can be extremely expensive and inaccessible, especially for families on tight budgets.
Also, family unity is essential when traveling. Being able to sit next to your child without incurring extra fees fosters a sense of security and comfort, both for parents and children. The ability for parents to sit beside their children without fees isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring that all families, regardless of income, can indulge in travel.
Offering free kids’ seats encourages families to travel more frequently, therefore boosting tourism and cultural exchange.
Options for Free Kids Seating
Not all airlines extend the courtesy of free flights to young travelers. The exceptions are typically limited to children aged 2 and under. Frontier Airlines stands out as the longest-standing carrier offering an ongoing program allowing children to fly at no charge. Meanwhile, American Airlines and United Airlines recently introduced policies enabling children aged 12 and under to accompany adults on basic economy fares without additional fees.
For frequent Southwest Airlines flyers holding a Companion Pass, there’s an attractive perk: children can join as companions for a less expensive fee. The Companion Pass holder can switch their designated companion up to three times per calendar year. Additionally, parents traveling with children aged 6 or younger can enjoy the convenience of family boarding privileges.
Considerations and Concerns
As much as many families crave free kids’ seats, there are also practical challenges and potential drawbacks to consider. Airlines are like any other business. Absorbing the cost of children’s seats could mean higher ticket prices for everyone – a tough pill to swallow for families and singles alike.
There’s also the logistical puzzle of seating arrangements. Guaranteeing that parents sit next to their children on fully booked flights sounds ideal, but in reality, is a complicated task. Restructuring seating plans could lead to confusion and inconvenience for both passengers and airlines.
Navigating Parenthood at 30,000 Feet
So, you’ve booked your flight, and you’re preparing for the adventure of flying with your little ones. How do you navigate the etiquette of parenting in flight?
First things first—choose your seats strategically. Aim for proximity to each other to make life easier for both you and other passengers. Communicate your preferences and any special needs to airline staff – they’re there to assist you.
During the flight, keep the peace by packing an arsenal of snacks, toys, and distractions. When the inevitable challenges arise, handle them with grace and a healthy dose of humor.
Passengers can also help parents navigate the woes of flying. Be patient and understand that children aren’t always used to taking airplanes. It’s stuffy, crowded, and makes your ears pop—that’s enough to make anyone cranky. Meltdowns are inevitable, so handle them with grace and patience. Parents will appreciate it.
Flying Together
In the end, the debate over free kids’ seats isn’t just about economics or logistics—it’s about values. People value experiences and community, and that should be extended to children, without a fee.