Delta Airlines Infant Policy

Flying with an infant requires thoughtful planning, and Delta Airlines has well-defined rules to make the journey as smooth as possible for parents and guardians. From lap infant guidelines to bassinets and child safety seats, Delta aims to balance convenience with safety standards approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Understanding these policies before booking can help families avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.

Overview of Delta’s Infant Travel Rules

Delta Airlines defines infants as children under two years of age. Families traveling with infants have two main options:

1. The child can travel as a lap infant, sitting on an adult’s lap.
2. Parents may purchase a separate seat for their child and use an FAA-approved child safety seat.

Lap infants are allowed on both domestic and international flights, although rules and fees differ depending on the route.

Delta Airlines Lap Infant Policy

Delta permits each adult passenger to carry one infant under two years old on their lap. Some key rules include:

• Domestic Flights: Lap infants travel free of charge within the United States.
• International Flights: A fee applies, usually 10% of the adult fare plus taxes and surcharges.
• Only one lap infant per adult is permitted. If traveling with two infants, a seat must be purchased for the second child.
• The lap infant must be added to the booking at the time of reservation or by contacting Delta’s customer service.

Separate Seat for Infants

Although parents may travel with an infant on their lap, Delta strongly recommends purchasing a separate seat for safety reasons. Infants in their own seat must use an FAA-approved child safety restraint system (CRS) or car seat.

• Car seats must be labeled as certified for use in aircraft.
• The seat must fit within Delta’s aircraft seat dimensions.
• The CRS must be installed in a window seat and not in exit rows or bulkhead seats with airbags.

Using a separate seat not only enhances safety but also provides more comfort for both the child and parent during the journey.

Note: Parents traveling with infants should also be aware of the Delta Airlines Cancellation Fee. If plans change unexpectedly, understanding how the Delta Airlines Cancellation Fee applies to both adult and infant bookings helps families avoid extra costs and ensures smoother rebooking or refund processes when travel adjustments become necessary.

Delta Bassinet Policy

For long-haul international flights, Delta offers SkyCots (airline bassinets) for infants. These bassinets are designed for babies weighing up to 20 lbs (9 kg) and are available only on select wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 767/777/350.

Important notes:

• SkyCots are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and must be reserved in advance by calling Delta.
• Bassinets can only be used during the cruising portion of the flight and must be stowed away during turbulence, takeoff, and landing.
• Not all aircraft and routes offer this service, so families should check availability at the time of booking.

Infant Baggage Allowance

Delta Airlines provides generous allowances for families traveling with infants:

• Lap Infants: Allowed one diaper bag in addition to the adult’s carry-on allowance.
• Infants with a Purchased Seat: Receive the same baggage allowance as their ticketed fare.
• Free Items: One stroller and one car seat may be checked per child at no cost.
• Additional Items: Collapsible cribs, bassinets, and playpens may also be checked but may incur extra charges depending on baggage limits.

Infant Meals and Onboard Comfort

Delta strives to make travel comfortable for families. On select international flights, infant meals may be available if requested in advance. Parents are encouraged to:

• Bring formula, milk, or baby food in TSA-approved containers.
• Carry extra diapers, wipes, and clothing for long-haul flights.
• Feed infants during takeoff and landing to help ease ear pressure.

Flight attendants are available to provide hot water for bottles and other basic assistance, though parents should prepare their own supplies.

Booking and Check-In Rules for Infants

When booking a ticket with Delta Airlines, parents must indicate if they are traveling with an infant. The system automatically applies the lap infant option if selected. At check-in:

• Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or passport) may be required.
• For international travel, infants must have a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa.
• Parents traveling without the child’s other parent may need to present consent documents depending on the destination country's rules.

International Infant Travel with Delta

Traveling abroad with infants involves additional considerations:

• Lap Infant Fees: Generally 10% of the adult fare, plus taxes.
• Travel Documents: Passports are required, regardless of age.
• Seating Restrictions: Some countries may have laws requiring infants to occupy a safety seat.
• Customs and Entry Requirements: Parents should check if the destination requires additional documents, such as vaccination records or parental consent forms.

Note: When booking flights for infants, parents should double-check all passenger details to avoid issues. If a name is entered incorrectly, Delta charges a Delta Name Correction Fee. Being aware of this fee helps families correct errors promptly, ensuring that travel with infants proceeds smoothly without unnecessary delays or extra costs.

Delta Infant Seating Restrictions

Certain safety rules apply when traveling with infants:

• Infants cannot sit in an exit row or in seats equipped with airbags.
• Only window seats are permitted for installing child safety seats.
• Delta allows infants in premium cabins, but bassinets are only offered in select economy sections of wide-body aircraft.

Refunds, Cancellations, and No-Show Rules for Infants

• Lap Infant Tickets: Nonrefundable on most international flights once purchased.
• No-Show Policy: If a parent fails to cancel in advance, the lap infant fee is forfeited.
• Flight Changes: If a parent changes their itinerary, the lap infant booking must also be updated.

Tips for Parents Traveling with Infants on Delta

• Reserve Early: Bassinets and bulkhead seats fill quickly.
• Board Early: Families with small children are typically given priority boarding.
• Pack Smart: Keep essentials like diapers, snacks, and toys handy.
• Plan for Sleep: Consider booking red-eye flights that align with your baby’s schedule.