Traveling with an infant can be daunting, but a bassinet can make all the difference. During my first international flight with my newborn from Delhi to London, securing a bassinet on Air India was a game-changer—it allowed my baby to sleep soundly, giving me a moment to relax. Indian airlines like Air India and Vistara offer bassinets on select flights, but policies vary. This guide answers key questions like “Do airlines provide bassinets for infants?” and “How to book a baby bassinet?” to help parents plan a comfortable journey.
Table of Contents
- Do Air India Provide Bassinets for Infants?
- Which Airline is Best for Infants in India?
- Do Airlines Charge for Infants in India?
- Does IndiGo Provide Bassinets?
- How to Ask for a Bassinet in Flight?
- How Much Does a Baby Bassinet Cost on a Plane?
- How Do I Request a Bassinet on Air India?
- How to Book a Baby Bassinet?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Bassinets are small, portable cribs provided by airlines, designed to offer comfort and safety for infants during flights. Typically attached to the bulkhead wall, they allow infants to sleep securely, freeing up parents’ hands. Bassinets are especially valuable for long-haul flights, reducing stress and ensuring a more relaxing journey for both parents and babies. Learn more about infant travel at Wikipedia’s Infant Travel page.
Do Air India Provide Bassinets for Infants?
Yes, Air India provides bassinets on long-haul international flights and select domestic routes, subject to availability. Bassinets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are suitable for infants under 2 years old, weighing up to 11 kg (24 lbs) and fitting within the 71 cm x 36 cm x 19 cm bassinet. Parents should request a bassinet at booking or via Air India’s customer support. Staff will set up the bassinet after reaching cruising altitude.
Which Airline is Best for Infants in India?
Air India and Vistara stand out for infant-friendly services. Air India offers bassinets, priority boarding, and a 10 kg baggage allowance for infants. Vistara provides priority boarding, baby food on request, and excellent customer service, making both airlines top choices for parents. Emirates, though not Indian, is also notable for its family-friendly policies, including bassinets and special meals. See Emirates’ family travel page.
Do Airlines Charge for Infants in India?
Most Indian airlines charge a nominal fee for infants (under 2 years) traveling on a parent’s lap, typically 10% of the adult fare plus taxes. For example, Air India charges around ₹1,250 for domestic flights and 10% of the adult fare for international flights. A separate seat requires a child fare, often 75% of the adult fare. Always check specific airline policies, as fees vary.
Does IndiGo Provide Bassinets?
IndiGo, a leading low-cost carrier, does not provide bassinets due to its budget model. However, families with infants get priority boarding and can carry essentials like formula, diapers, and baby food. Parents should plan alternative sleeping arrangements or choose full-service airlines like Air India for bassinet availability.
How to Ask for a Bassinet in Flight?
To request a bassinet, contact the airline at booking or shortly after through their customer support or “Manage Booking” portal. Specify your infant’s age and weight, as bassinets have size limits (e.g., under 2 years, up to 11 kg for Air India). Confirm the request at check-in, as availability is limited and assigned first-come, first-served. Visit airline websites like Air India or Vistara for details.
How Much Does a Baby Bassinet Cost on a Plane?
In India, bassinets are typically free on airlines like Air India and Vistara, subject to availability. No additional fee is charged beyond the infant fare (around 10% of the adult fare). However, securing a bulkhead seat for bassinet use may require early booking, as these are limited. Check with the airline to confirm no hidden costs.
How Do I Request a Bassinet on Air India?
To request a bassinet on Air India, visit the Manage Booking section on their website or contact customer support at booking. Provide your infant’s details (age, weight) and confirm at check-in. Bassinets are free but limited, so book early. Social media discussions, like those on Reddit, highlight the importance of early requests.
How to Book a Baby Bassinet?
Book a bassinet by selecting the option during online booking or contacting the airline’s customer service post-booking. For Air India, use the Manage Booking portal or call their support. For Vistara, request via Vistara’s contact page. Ensure your infant meets size and weight restrictions (e.g., under 2 years, 11 kg). Confirm at check-in, as bassinets are not guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do airlines provide bassinets for infants?
Yes, airlines like Air India and Vistara offer bassinets on select flights, subject to availability.
Is a bassinet available in IndiGo?
No, IndiGo does not provide bassinets, but families get priority boarding and can carry baby essentials.
How to ask for a bassinet in flight?
Request at booking via the airline’s website or customer support and confirm at check-in.
How much does a baby bassinet cost on a plane?
Bassinets are free on airlines like Air India and Vistara, subject to availability.
How do I request a bassinet on Air India?
Use Air India’s Manage Booking portal or contact customer support at booking, confirming at check-in.
How to book a baby bassinet?
Book during reservation or via customer service, ensuring the infant meets size and weight limits.
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