Flying with Baby & Infant Guide India 2026

June 2026 10 min read Family Travel

Disclaimer: Information on this page is for general guidance only. Airline policies, fares, discounts, and government rules change frequently. Always verify with the airline or official source before making decisions. Rules vary by airline, fare type, route, and date. TheBookFlight is not responsible for any changes in airline or government policies.

Note: Airline policies, fares, and rules change frequently. Always verify with the airline or official source before making decisions. Information provided is for general guidance only.

Travelling by air with an infant or baby can be stressful for first-time parents. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about booking flights for infants in India — from age categories and ticket pricing to bassinet requests, baggage rules, and practical tips for keeping your little one comfortable during the flight.

Infant vs Child: Age Categories

Airlines classify young passengers into two categories with different pricing and rules:

CategoryAge RangeSeatPricing
Infant7 days to under 2 yearsSits on parent's lap (no separate seat)10% of adult fare + taxes (domestic)
Child2 years to under 12 yearsSeparate seat required75-100% of adult fare + taxes

Important: The infant's age is calculated as of the date of travel, not the date of booking. If your baby turns 2 during the trip, you may need a child ticket for the return flight. Book both segments accordingly.

Infant Ticket Pricing by Airline

AirlineDomestic Infant FareMinimum AgeInfants per Adult
IndiGo~10% of adult base fare + taxes7 days1 infant per adult
Air India10% of adult fare + taxes7 days1 infant per adult
SpiceJet~10% of adult base fare + taxes7 days1 infant per adult
Akasa Air~10% of adult fare + taxes14 days1 infant per adult

Documents Required

  • Birth certificate — Required for all infants as proof of age (original or photocopy)
  • Passport — Required only for international flights; domestic flights accept birth certificate
  • Medical clearance — Required for newborns under 14 days (most airlines restrict travel under 7 days)
  • Parent's ID — At least one parent/guardian must travel with the infant

Baggage Allowance for Infants

AirlineCheck-in BaggageCabin BaggageStroller
IndiGo10 kg1 diaper bag (up to 5 kg)Free — gate check
Air India10 kg1 diaper bagFree — gate check
SpiceJet10 kg1 diaper bag (up to 3 kg)Free — gate check
Akasa Air7 kg1 diaper bagFree — gate check

Stroller Tip: You can carry your stroller up to the aircraft door (gate check). It will be returned to you at the aircraft door at your destination. No extra charge. Compact/umbrella strollers are easier to manage at airports.

Bassinet & Seat Selection

Bassinet Requests

Some airlines offer bassinets (sky cots) on longer domestic and international flights:

  • Air India — Bassinets available on wide-body aircraft (international flights). Request at booking or at least 48 hours before departure.
  • IndiGo — Bassinets not available on domestic flights (narrow-body aircraft)
  • SpiceJet — Bassinets not available on domestic flights

Best Seats for Families with Infants

  • Bulkhead row — Extra legroom, bassinet attachment (if available), easier to manage baby
  • Window seat — Provides a wall to lean against for breastfeeding privacy; less disturbance from other passengers
  • Back of the plane — Closer to lavatories; cabin crew is nearby for hot water/assistance

Practical Tips for Flying with Baby

Before the Flight

  1. Feed during takeoff/landing — Breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or pacifier helps equalise ear pressure
  2. Bring extra supplies — Pack 2x more diapers, wipes, and changes of clothes than you think you'll need
  3. Carry medicines — Baby Tylenol/paracetamol, nasal drops, and ORS sachets
  4. Pre-book everything — Seat selection, extra baggage, and any special assistance
  5. Pack a separate baby bag — Keep essentials in a diaper bag that fits under the seat

During the Flight

  • Dress baby in layers — Cabin temperature varies; easily add/remove clothing
  • Carry snacks/formula — Airlines allow baby formula, breast milk, and baby food through security
  • Entertainment — Small toys, books, or tablet with cartoons (with headphones)
  • Diaper changes — Most aircraft have changing tables in the lavatory; use the one at the back for more space
  • White noise — The plane engine noise often soothes babies; if not, a white noise app helps

Book Family-Friendly Flights

TheBookFlight helps families book infant tickets, pre-book strollers, and arrange all assistance for a comfortable journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can a baby fly for the first time?

Most Indian airlines allow infants to fly from 7 days old (IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet). Akasa Air requires infants to be at least 14 days old. For newborns under 14 days, a medical fitness certificate from a paediatrician is usually required.

How much does an infant ticket cost on domestic flights in India?

Infant tickets on domestic flights are approximately 10% of the adult base fare plus applicable taxes. Infants sit on the parent's lap and do not get a separate seat. The total cost is usually ₹500–₹1,500 for domestic flights.

Can I carry a stroller on the flight?

Yes. All major Indian airlines allow you to carry a stroller for free. You can use it up to the aircraft door (gate check). The stroller is stored in the cargo hold during the flight and returned at the aircraft door at your destination.

How do I equalise my baby's ear pressure during takeoff and landing?

Breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or giving a pacifier during takeoff and landing helps babies swallow, which equalises ear pressure. For older infants, sipping water or juice also helps. Start feeding just as the plane begins its ascent or descent.

Can I bring breast milk and formula through airport security?

Yes. Baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are exempt from the 100ml liquid restriction. Carry them in a clear, accessible bag for security screening. The quantities should be reasonable for the duration of your journey.

Do I need to book a separate seat for my infant?

No, for children under 2 years (infants), a separate seat is not required. The infant sits on the parent's lap with an infant seat belt provided by the cabin crew. However, only 1 infant is allowed per adult passenger.

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