What Is Swiss Airlines Infant Policy?

Flying with an infant requires careful planning, and Swiss Airlines provides clear policies to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience for families. From seating arrangements and fares to baggage allowances and in-flight services, Swiss Airlines supports parents traveling with children under two years old. This guide explains all essential aspects of Swiss Airlines infant policy so you can prepare for a smooth journey.

Who Qualifies As An Infant On Swiss Airlines?

Swiss Airlines defines an infant as a child under two years old on the date of travel. Infants can either travel on a parent’s lap or occupy a separate seat using an approved child safety seat.

Lap infants must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the flight.
Only one lap infant per adult is allowed.
For families traveling with two infants, one must have a separate seat and use an approved car seat.

Swiss Airlines may request proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, particularly for international flights.

Infant Fares and Booking

Swiss Airlines provides a flexible approach for infant fares:

Lap infant fares: Infants traveling on a parent’s lap are typically charged a small fee for international flights, while domestic flights may allow lap infants free of charge.
Separate seat option: Parents can purchase a discounted child fare to use a certified child seat for added safety and comfort.
Booking considerations: Always include infant details during the initial booking to secure seating arrangements and confirm any special services.

Seating and Car Seat Guidelines

Swiss Airlines emphasizes safety and comfort for infants:

Lap infants must remain on the adult’s lap during takeoff, landing, and turbulence, secured with a special seat belt extension.
Car seats must meet international safety standards and be installed in a window seat when occupying a separate seat.
While Swiss Airlines does not provide bassinets on all flights, select long-haul aircraft may offer limited bassinet options. Parents are advised to request them in advance.

Note: In addition to infant travel rules, parents should be aware of Swiss Airlines Name Change policy. If there’s a need to correct or update the passenger’s name on a booking, Swiss Airlines allows changes under specific conditions. Always check deadlines and required documentation to avoid complications before your flight.

Baggage Allowance for Infants

Swiss Airlines offers specific allowances to make family travel easier:

Lap infants: Parents may carry one small bag with essential items, including diapers, formula, and clothing.
Car seat and stroller: Both can be checked free of charge. Compact strollers may be used until boarding and checked at the gate.
Infant seat passengers: If a seat is purchased, the child receives the standard baggage allowance applicable to the fare class.

Swiss Airlines Long-Haul Comfort for Families

On long-haul international flights, Swiss Airlines provides additional comfort features for families:

Bulkhead seats may offer extra legroom and easier access to bassinets.
Pre-booking a separate seat with a car seat can provide infants with their own space to sleep or play.
Cabin crew are trained to assist families, including providing guidance on bottle warming and safe placement of infant items.

Traveling Internationally with Infants

International travel with an infant requires additional documentation and preparation:

All infants must have a valid passport.
Certain destinations may require visas or other entry documents for infants.
Swiss Airlines recommends carrying a copy of the infant’s birth certificate to comply with international travel regulations.
If only one parent is traveling with an infant, some countries may require notarized parental consent letters.

In-Flight Services for Infants

Swiss Airlines provides services to support parents during the flight:

Cabin crew can assist with hot water for bottles upon request.
Changing tables are available in most lavatories.
Families with infants are generally allowed to pre-board, ensuring ample time to settle in.
Parents should bring formula, snacks, and toys, as Swiss Airlines does not provide baby meals on short-haul flights.

Safety Guidelines

Swiss Airlines prioritizes the safety of infants onboard:

Lap infants must be secured with the special seat belt provided.
Car seats must comply with international safety standards and be appropriately installed.
Booster seats and inflatable travel beds are not allowed during takeoff, landing, or turbulence.
Only one lap infant per adult is permitted to maintain safe cabin conditions.

Booking and Check-In Tips

To ensure smooth travel with infants on Swiss Airlines:

Add infant details at the time of booking to secure seating arrangements.
Carry age verification documents such as a birth certificate or passport.
Arrive early at the airport to allow additional time for check-in, security, and stroller drop-off.
Confirm any special services, such as bassinets or priority boarding, ahead of time.