Airline Tickets for Babies and Infants in India

Do I Have to Buy a Plane Ticket for My Baby?

Traveling with a baby on domestic flights in India requires understanding airline policies to ensure a smooth journey. Parents often ask, "Do I need to buy a plane ticket for my baby?" This guide covers infant fare rules, required documents, and tips for flying with babies on airlines like Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet.

Baby Travel India

Infant Ticket Policies in India

Indian airlines have clear rules for traveling with babies:

  • Infants (under 2 years): Can travel on an adult’s lap with a ticket at a reduced fare, typically 10% of the adult fare. No seat is provided.
  • Children (2 years and older): Require a full-price adult ticket and their own seat.
Policies vary by airline:
  • Air India: Charges 10% of adult fare for infants; requires birth certificate and vaccination records.
  • IndiGo: One infant per adult, with a fixed infant fee.
  • Vistara: Complimentary infant travel with booking confirmation.
  • SpiceJet: Minimal infant fee; birth certificate mandatory.
Book early, as airlines limit infants per flight. Check Indian airline policies for details.

Documents Required for Infant Travel

For infants over 7 days and under 2 years, provide:

  • Birth Certificate: Mandatory for age verification.
  • Vaccination Certificate: Required by most airlines.
  • Passport: Needed for international flights.
  • Parental Consent Letter: If traveling with one parent or guardian.
For infants under 7 days, a medical certificate and airline clearance are required for medical emergencies. See required travel documents for more.

How Many Infants Can Travel with One Adult?

Most airlines allow one infant per adult to travel on the lap. For multiple infants, purchase an additional seat and coordinate with the airline for child restraint systems. Contact carriers like IndiGo or Vistara for arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do babies under 2 fly for free in India?

No, infants under 2 require a ticket at a reduced fare (around 10% of adult fare) but can travel on an adult’s lap without a seat.

Is a 2-year-old charged full price for a flight?

Yes, children aged 2 and older need their own seat and pay the full adult fare.

At what age do babies need to pay for flights in India?

Infants under 2 pay a reduced fare; children 2 and older pay full adult fare.

What documents are needed for infant travel?

Birth certificate, vaccination certificate, and a passport (for international flights) are required. A parental consent letter may be needed.

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