When traveling with a baby, every parent looks for clarity, comfort, and safety. Emirates infant policy ensures that families traveling with infants receive dedicated services tailored to their unique needs. From booking and baggage to onboard amenities, Emirates offers one of the most comprehensive infant travel policies in the aviation industry.
Eligibility and Definition Under Emirates Infant Policy
According to the Emirates infant policy, an infant is defined as a child under two years of age at the time of travel. Infants must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or older. The policy is applicable for both one-way and return journeys, and the infant's age must be under 2 for the entire trip to avail of infant benefits. If the child turns 2 during the trip, a separate child ticket must be purchased for the return flight.
Booking Tickets for Infants on Emirates
Booking an infant ticket on Emirates is simple and flexible. If the infant will travel on an adult’s lap, parents can book an infant fare, which typically costs around 10% of the adult fare. However, if you prefer your infant to travel in their own seat using an approved child restraint device or car seat, a child fare (not an infant fare) must be booked instead.
The Emirates infant policy allows only one infant per adult. If an adult is traveling with two infants, one infant must travel in their own seat with an approved child seat, and the child fare applies for the second infant.
Baggage Allowance for Infants
Baggage allowance for infants traveling with Emirates is generous and family-friendly. Under the Emirates infant policy, each infant is entitled to:
10 kg of checked baggage on routes using the weight concept.
One piece of luggage up to 23 kg on routes using the piece concept (e.g., flights to/from the Americas and Africa).
One fully collapsible stroller or carrycot or car seat, which can be checked in or brought on board depending on space and airport regulations.
Seat Selection and Bassinet Services
For families traveling with infants, Emirates offers bassinet seats on long-haul flights. These seats are located in specific rows and offer wall-mounted bassinets for infants weighing up to 11 kg and less than 75 cm in length. Bassinets must be requested well in advance, and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
In accordance with the Emirates infant policy, infants traveling without a separate seat are not allocated an individual seat, but they may use a bassinet during cruising altitude. However, during taxi, take-off, landing, and turbulence, the infant must be secured using a special seat belt extension provided by the cabin crew.
In-Flight Amenities for Infants and Parents
Emirates goes above and beyond in ensuring that flying with a baby is as stress-free as possible. Parents can expect:
Baby kits that include essentials like diapers, wipes, bibs, and lotion.
Changing tables in most lavatories across aircraft.
Special baby meals, which can be requested in advance during the booking process.
Warm water for bottles and milk heating facilities, provided upon request by cabin crew.
The Emirates infant policy emphasizes safety and convenience, ensuring parents feel supported throughout the journey.
Traveling with Infant Car Seats and Strollers
Parents wishing to use a child car seat onboard must ensure it is FAA- or EASA-approved, with proper labeling and installation guidelines. The car seat must fit within the dimensions of the aircraft seat and must be used in a seat with a child fare ticket. Booster seats are not permitted during taxi, take-off, or landing.
As per the Emirates infant policy, strollers may be used within the airport and checked in at the gate or during regular check-in. Some airports also offer complimentary strollers after security, especially in Dubai International Airport (DXB), Emirates' main hub.
Airport Assistance and Priority Boarding
Families traveling with infants benefit from priority check-in and boarding across most Emirates flights. This enables parents to settle in and store their hand luggage without the rush of general boarding.
Emirates staff are trained to provide gentle, proactive support to families with babies, including expedited security checks, boarding bridges, and priority disembarkation on arrival.
Emirates Skywards Miles for Infants
While infants traveling on lap fares do not earn Skywards Miles, if an infant has their own seat with a child fare, they can be enrolled in the Emirates Skywards program and accumulate miles just like adult passengers.
This is an excellent opportunity for families to start earning rewards early under the scope of the Emirates infant policy, especially if they travel frequently.
Important Travel Documents and Health Requirements
Infants must possess a valid passport and, if applicable, visa or travel authorization for their destination. Parents should carry a copy of the birth certificate or documentation proving guardianship, especially when traveling internationally.
Certain destinations require vaccination records or a pediatrician’s health certificate, especially during outbreaks or when traveling to tropical destinations. The Emirates infant policy recommends checking with local embassies or consulates in advance.
Tips for a Smooth Journey with an Infant on Emirates
Here are a few expert tips to enhance your travel experience under the Emirates infant policy:
Book early to secure a bassinet seat and request special meals.
Pack a change of clothes for both the infant and parent in carry-on baggage.
Use Emirates’ app to manage bookings, seat selections, and infant services.
Arrive early at the airport to avoid last-minute stress.
Keep feeding supplies and toys handy during the flight to soothe the baby.
Conclusion
Traveling with an infant doesn’t have to be stressful. The Emirates infant policy is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of families, ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience from booking through arrival. With ample baggage allowances, in-flight support, priority services, and attentive cabin crew, Emirates ensures every family journey is smooth and memorable. By understanding the policy in advance and utilizing the services available, parents can enjoy peace of mind while flying with their little ones.
